The SMG Swiss Marketplace Group announced a leadership transition on Tuesday, with CEO Christoph Tonini set to step down by December 31, 2026. He will be succeeded by Alberto Sanz de Lama, currently head of the company’s automotive business, who will assume the CEO role effective January 1, 2027.
Tonini, who has led SMG since February 2023, will be proposed as the new chairman of the board at the company’s annual general meeting in April 2027. His departure follows a period of significant transformation, including the group’s successful public listing in 2025. "After nearly four years as CEO, guiding SMG through a period of profound change and a successful IPO, I believe the time is right to step away from day-to-day operations," Tonini said in a statement.
Jörn Nikolay, current chairman, will resign from his position but remain a board member until the 2027 AGM. During the interim period, Pietro Supino, publisher at TX Group and SMG vice-chairman, will serve as interim chairman. The board expressed gratitude to Nikolay for his contributions to SMG’s establishment.
Sanz de Lama, who has been part of SMG’s executive team since 2023, will take over an operational leadership role at the digital marketplace operator. His appointment marks a continuation of the group’s strategic direction under new management.
