Zurich, October 2026 – FGS Global, the world's leading strategic leadership advisory firm, welcomes Dr. Joachim Jan Thraen to its Zurich office as Managing Director. He will focus on further expanding the firm's Global Public Affairs and geopolitical advisory work for clients in Switzerland.
“We are very pleased to welcome Joachim to the team. His cross-industry experience, international perspective and knowledge of the Swiss market will be a real asset as we continue to grow our public affairs work in Switzerland,” said Christine Graeff, Global Chief Growth Officer, Zurich lead and member of the Executive Committee.
Joachim brings more than 15 years of international experience across business, government and public policy, with particular expertise in healthcare and financial services. Most recently, he served as Director, Strategy & Policy Development in Global Public Policy at Merck Sharp & Dohme (MSD) in Switzerland, following a senior public affairs role at Johnson & Johnson. Before that, he spent six years at UBS, where he was Deputy Head of International Government Affairs.
“Joachim brings a broad perspective from his work across healthcare and financial services, combined with a strong international outlook and a deep understanding of how politics and geopolitics affect business decisions. I am very pleased that he is joining FGS Global and look forward to working closely with him in Switzerland,” said Christoph Bertram, Partner and Member of the European Executive Committee.
Joachim started his career at Bain & Company in Zurich and spent two years in China. Alongside his advisory work, he lectures on China, geopolitics, technology and innovation at the University of St. Gallen (HSG) and Oxford Saïd Business School.
“What attracted me most to FGS Global is the caliber of its people and the opportunity to work with outstanding colleagues across a truly international platform. Many of the issues companies face today — from geopolitics and regulation to technology and trade — do not stop at national borders. I look forward to bringing together FGS Global’s expertise and network across markets to support clients in Switzerland,” said Joachim Thraen.
About FGS Global
FGS Global partners with the world's most influential leaders to move minds and markets. Working where business, government, and public opinion intersect, we advise CEOs, boards, and leadership teams at the most consequential moments.
Our expertise spans strategic and financial communications, policy and public affairs, corporate reputation, crisis management, and data-driven digital engagement. Across 31 global offices, our partners draw on the full depth of the firm so clients can operate with clarity, act with confidence, and lead with trust.