Stefan Hernandez

«Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try again. Fail again. Fail better.»

(Samuel Beckett, Irish writer and Nobel Prize winner, 1906–1989)

Raised in Madrid as the son of a Spanish industrialist and a Swiss mother, I moved to Switzerland with my family after the early death of my father, where I completed secondary school and high school in Zurich. This was followed by business administration studies at the University of Zurich with a Master’s degree.

My professional career led me to a Swiss group, for which I traveled to and managed North, Central, and South America as well as several Central African states. In a sometimes difficult political and economic environment, the goal was to secure and conclude business legally and financially. During five exciting years, I learned how important fair, open, and personal interaction with customers is – regardless of nationality and culture.

Afterwards, I followed the call of an internationally active industrial SME in Eastern Switzerland. For 15 years, I was able to help shape and lead the company’s fortunes in strategic and operational terms. In the last ten years, also as its co-owner. After intensive and successful years with all the colors and facets characterized by the constant ups and downs of the global economy, I decided to leave my own company to gain new experiences. What remained were valuable impressions of an originally family-run SME, an exciting network of people from business and society, and the lessons and insights in leading an SME in a turbulent and economically difficult time.

After a short sabbatical, which again served to question the tried and tested, I decided to lead a company dedicated to professional football. A tingling, nervous, passionate, but also unstructured and loud environment. Great and impossible at the same time. I remained for nearly a year as Chairman of the Board and CEO. Since new structures became necessary when a major shareholder withdrew, I cleared the way for a new composition of the Board of Directors. Of course, I remain loyal to the football club in my head and heart!

Based on my rich and multi-layered experience as a former co-owner, Chairman of the Board, and CEO, I can empathize very well with the situation of many SME owners and executives. Especially in difficult and turbulent times, in economically tense moments, or even “when things are going well” – the themes are often similar. There are reasons for this! SME leaders are under pressure – and yes, it is important to handle this pressure successfully for the benefit of the company, but also for the benefit of private life! Often a balancing act in the life of an SME owner or Managing Director. Exciting and extremely motivating – sometimes also tiring and energy-sapping. That is precisely why it is good to exchange ideas, take a break, and permanently question even the tried and tested. That is what we are here for.

I am very pleased to be able to pass on my experiences of recent years and the quintessence thereof within the Grass network and with the outstanding tools of Grass & Partner and to be able to accompany you – whether through turbulent or calm times. I look forward to meeting you!