UBS Considers External Candidates for CEO, Bloomberg Reports

• Ermotti's departure is planned for mid-2027, though the exact timeline remains unfixed
• The board is evaluating both external candidates and internal contenders for the CEO position
• Ermotti oversaw UBS's emergency acquisition of Credit Suisse, a major milestone in his tenure

Summary

Key Development:

UBS Group's board is evaluating both external and internal candidates to replace CEO Sergio Ermotti, who is expected to step down by mid-2027, though the timeline remains unfinalized. Ermotti disclosed this information to Bloomberg News at the World Economic Forum in Davos on January 20, 2026.

Company Background:

Ermotti currently leads UBS, Switzerland's largest bank, and notably oversaw the emergency takeover of Credit Suisse—a critical intervention that consolidated two major Swiss financial institutions during a period of banking sector instability.

Leadership Transition Details:

The consideration of external candidates alongside internal succession options signals a comprehensive approach to leadership planning. This dual-track strategy suggests the board is prioritizing finding the best candidate regardless of origin, rather than defaulting to internal promotion.

Market Implications:

The CEO succession at UBS carries significant weight given the bank's enhanced global footprint following the Credit Suisse acquisition. The leadership transition occurs at a critical juncture as UBS integrates Credit Suisse's operations and manages the expanded entity's regulatory requirements and strategic direction.

External candidate consideration could indicate the board seeks fresh perspectives to navigate post-merger challenges, though it may also raise questions about internal talent development. The 18-month advance notice provides markets with transparency and time to assess the transition's potential impact.

Timeline:

• Announcement Date: January 20, 2026
• Expected Departure: Mid-2027 (subject to change)

The succession planning demonstrates proactive governance at one of Europe's most systemically important financial institutions during a transformative period in its history.