Dieter Weisskopf Appointed As Interim CEO Of Lindt & Sprüngli

Dieter Weisskopf has been appointed interim chief executive officer of Swiss chocolatier Lindt & Sprüngli, replacing Adalbert Lechner amid record cocoa costs, weak consumer demand and pressure on profit margins. The company expects to appoint a permanent successor in the second quarter of 2027.

Weisskopf brings more than 25 years of experience at Lindt, having joined the company in 1995 as head of finance, administration, information technology, human resources, purchasing and sustainability. In 2004, his responsibilities expanded to include manufacturing, giving him experience across several key business functions.

Before joining Lindt, Weisskopf began his career at Swiss Union Bank and subsequently worked for the Jacobs Suchard Group, where he held senior financial management positions. He also served at Klaus Jacobs Holding and worked as chief financial officer in Canada and Switzerland.

In October 2016, Weisskopf became Lindt’s group CEO, succeeding Ernst Tanner. He held the position until September 2022, when Adalbert Lechner took over. Weisskopf subsequently served as vice-chairman of Lindt’s Board of Directors and chaired its Sustainability Committee.

He holds a degree in political economy and a doctorate in business administration. His extensive background in finance, manufacturing and international business positions him to guide Lindt through its current challenges.