The Swiss financial market infrastructure operator, SIX, is moving swiftly to bolster its executive team after a series of notable departures. Recently, the company unveiled new leadership appointments, signaling a decisive strategy under the direction of CEO Bjørn Sibbern, who has been steering SIX since November 2024.
SIX announced that Tomas Kindler has been appointed as the permanent Head of Exchanges and a Member of the Executive Board, effective June 1. Kindler stepped confidently into this role after serving in an interim capacity since January 1, 2025, following Sibbern’s ascendancy to Group CEO. A familiar face at SIX since 2011, Kindler brings a wealth of experience, having previously managed operations and change management at the exchanges.
In an interesting twist, Rafael Moral Santiago will also join the executive team as the new Head of Securities Services and Member of the Executive Board, effective June 1. He succeeds José Manuel Ortiz, who temporarily led the unit but will now return to his role overseeing Clearing and Repo Operations. Santiago’s appointment keeps the “Spanish connection” in play following Ortiz’s earlier leadership transition from Javier Hernani, the former CEO of the Spanish stock exchange BME, which SIX acquired.
Before joining SIX, Santiago served as the Global Head of Country Management Securities Services at HSBC in Hong Kong, where he managed the bank’s regional strategy and securities services across markets. His background also includes significant leadership roles at HSBC in both Hong Kong and London, complemented by a decade at Deutsche Bank.
Also noteworthy is the elevation of Fabienne-Anne Rehulka to a full member of the Executive Board as of April 1, 2025. Having served as SIX’s General Counsel since June 2024, Rehulka brings over 20 years of experience in legal and regulatory affairs, further solidifying the leadership team’s expertise.
Commenting on these appointments, CEO Bjørn Sibbern expressed confidence in the new lineup, stating, “With today’s appointments, we now have a strong and balanced executive board to drive SIX forward.” With these fresh faces, SIX is not only enhancing its leadership depth but also ensuring there are no significant vacancies at the top, poised to navigate the complexities of the financial landscape.
As SIX charges ahead, one has to wonder if their new team will spark a renaissance in the Swiss market. With a mix of internal and external talents, the future looks intriguing!
Who has been appointed as the Head of Exchanges at SIX?
Tomas Kindler will take on the role as Head of Exchanges and a member of the Executive Board, effective June 1.
What previous roles did Santiago hold before joining SIX?
Rafael Moral Santiago was the Global Head of Country Management Securities Services at HSBC in Hong Kong, in addition to various leadership positions at HSBC and Deutsche Bank.
What experience does Fabienne-Anne Rehulka bring to the Executive Board?
Rehulka brings over 20 years of legal and regulatory expertise to the Executive Board, having served as General Counsel of SIX since June 2024.
