Lindt & Sprüngli is changing its leadership at several levels. Group CEO Adalbert Lechner is leaving the company. Dieter Weisskopf, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors and former Group CEO, has taken over group management on an interim basis with immediate effect.
Permanent CEO succession by the second quarter of 2027 at the latest
The Board of Directors has initiated the search for a permanent successor. According to the company, the position is to be filled by the second quarter of 2027 at the latest. Weisskopf previously led Lindt & Sprüngli as Group CEO from 2016 to 2022.
New responsibilities in Germany and Austria
Responsibilities are also changing in two important country subsidiaries as of 26 October 2026: Ali Kulein, previously CEO of Lindt & Sprüngli Austria, is to become CEO Germany – subject to formal approval by the local supervisory board. In Austria, Fabian Reinhardt, currently Head of Global Sales, takes over the CEO role. Michal Spiller is leaving the company.
Assessment
The reorganisation affects the group’s top management and two central German-speaking markets at the same time. The interim appointment of a former Group CEO secures leadership experience in the short term while the Board of Directors searches for a permanent successor. In parallel, operational responsibilities in Germany and Austria are being redistributed.
Primary source: Lindt & Sprüngli, announcement of 19 October 2026
Further confirmed appointments can be found in the continuously updated overview DACH Executive Moves.