In the Media
If the culture doesn't fit, the best CV is useless
Vanessa Saurino
Managing Associate, Switzerland
Vanessa Saurino joined Boyden in 2015 and has steadily advanced in her executive search career, becoming well-versed in the industry and developing exceptional skills. She has deep expertise in research, project management, and client relations, and a strong command of search processes. Her organisational, communication, and language skills also help us deliver consistently positive results.
Professional Focus
- Nearly 10 years’ experience in executive search
- Highly skilled in team leadership, research, candidate identification and assessment, client support, and project management
- In-depth knowledge of technology start-up and industrial sector searches
- Background in sales and marketing, as well as a range of industries including manufacturing, luxury, fashion and retail
- Fluent in German, English and Italian, with good command of French
Business Expertise
- Prior roles at Boyden Switzerland: Head of Operations, Switzerland & Senior Associate; Senior Associate; Research Associate & Project Manager; Project Manager/Marketing & Events Coordinator
- Previously held administrative and sales positions, both in the Zürich area and London, including roles as a sales & administrative assistant for an international manufacturing firm
- Completed commercial apprenticeship in the textile industry
Sector Expertise
- Technology
- Industrial
- Consumer & Retail
- Luxury
- Retail & Apparel
Education & Certifications
- Bachelor’s degree (Hons) in business studies and economics from the Open University
- Higher Education Diploma, Fashion Marketing from University of the Arts London
- Vocational Baccalaureate, KV Zürich Business School
Case Studies
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A Time-Critical CFO Hire for a Scaling, PE-Backed Manufacturer
Boyden partnered with a private equity-backed leader in automated test systems to execute a Partner-led search with disciplined assessment and rapid momentum, identifying a finalist within two weeks and closing the mandate within 60 days.
Transforming Operations in a Family-Owned Medical Device Business
Building a High-Performance HR Function for a Multi-Site Laboratory Organization
Through collaboration with Boyden, the Chief People Officer of a PE-backed company secured two pivotal leaders, a Vice President of Human Resources and a Head of Talent Acquisition, to elevate human capital strategy, drive transformation, streamline recruitment, and strengthen enterprise alignment.
Thought Leadership
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Articles & Papers
A Regional CEO Search to Realise U.S. Market Potential for a European Family-Owned Business
A European family-owned business approaching generational transition recognized that its U.S. operation required more than continuity—it required growth. The challenge was to redefine leadership for a critical market while navigating family dynamics and cross-border complexity. Here’s how the right appointment helped unlock the company’s U.S. potential.
Articles & Papers
MedTech Leadership Succession & Next-Gen Executive Strategy
Discover why MedTech leadership succession is a strategic imperative—and how these companies can build strong, future-ready executive pipelines.
Boyden Report Series
The Status Quo of Digital Transformation in Switzerland in 2025
Articles & Papers
Private Equity's Role in Powering the Energy Transition
As energy markets transform, private equity is driving the transition with diversified portfolios and leaders who can master both legacy and renewable systems.
News & Events
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Press Release
Boyden Expands in Europe by Appointing Six New Partners and One Principal
New additions strengthen client support in executive search and interim management
In the Media
Michèle Gschwend: "It's always about the people"
In an interview, the supply chain expert Michèle Gschwend explains what changes are taking center stage in everyday business and how companies of all sizes can prepare for the next crisis.
Contact Vanessa Saurino today and let's get started