Vienna – Bernhard Kletzmair has stepped into the role of Managing Director for Mondelez Austria and Switzerland, effective February 2, 2026. The appointment marks a significant leadership change for the confectionery and snacking giant in these key European markets. Kletzmair, an international business economist, brings a wealth of experience garnered from leadership positions at prominent companies including Red Bull, Procter & Gamble, and The Hain Celestial Group. His focus will be on driving growth for brands like Milka, Philadelphia, and Toblerone across both Austria, and Switzerland.
The move comes as Mondelez International continues to pursue its “Vision 2030,” a strategy centered on becoming a global leader in snacking. This ambition, as Kletzmair outlined, involves continued investment in chocolate, biscuits, and baked snacks, alongside a commitment to innovation that resonates with consumers. The Swiss and Austrian markets are considered high-growth areas for the company, making Kletzmair’s role pivotal to achieving these goals. Understanding the company’s overall strategy provides context for this regional leadership shift.
A Career Built on Consumer Goods Leadership
Kletzmair’s career trajectory demonstrates a consistent focus on consumer-facing industries. Prior to joining Mondelez, he served as the Managing Director of Heidi Chocolat Niemetz Schwedenbomben in Austria. Before that, he held the position of European Head of Sales and Marketing at The Hain Celestial Group. His experience at Red Bull and Procter & Gamble, where he served as Sales Director in Switzerland, further solidifies his understanding of brand building and market penetration. This diverse background positions him well to navigate the complexities of the Austrian and Swiss consumer landscapes.
Transitioning Leadership Roles
The leadership transition at Mondelez has been carefully managed. Michael Baumgartner, who served as interim Managing Director for Mondelez Austria in recent months, will continue to lead sales efforts as Head of Sales Österreich. In Switzerland, Lukas Henle will remain responsible for distribution as National Account Manager. Kletzmair succeeds Anna van Riesen as Managing Director for Switzerland, following her departure earlier in the year. This continuity in key roles is intended to ensure a smooth handover and maintain momentum in both markets. The changes in leadership within Mondelez Austria and Switzerland reflect a broader strategy to optimize regional management and capitalize on growth opportunities.
Looking Ahead: Growth and Innovation
Kletzmair expressed his enthusiasm for collaborating with the teams in Austria and Switzerland, stating, “I look forward to working with the teams in Austria and Switzerland to continue developing our strong brands together and thus inspire our consumers.” Mondelez International reported a net revenue of approximately $38.5 billion in 2025 and operates in over 150 countries, solidifying its position as a global snacking leader. The company’s “Snacking Made Right” strategy aims to provide consumers with a snack for every occasion, and Kletzmair’s leadership will be instrumental in executing this vision in Austria and Switzerland.
The coming months will be crucial as Kletzmair implements his strategies and builds upon Mondelez’s existing market presence. Further updates on the company’s performance and initiatives in Austria and Switzerland are expected throughout 2026, providing a clearer picture of the impact of this leadership change. Readers interested in following these developments can find more information on the Mondelez International website.
What are your thoughts on this leadership change? Share your comments below and let us know how you think this will impact the snacking landscape in Austria and Switzerland.
