Markus Kohli to become new CEO of Switzerland Travel Centre

The Board of Directors of Switzerland Travel Centre has unanimously appointed Markus Kohli as the new CEO of the Swiss tour operator. Markus Kohli was CEO of Knecht Reisen AG for four years and previously held various management positions at TUI Suisse in the product and retail sectors for over 20 years. After attending a business-focused secondary school, Markus Kohli completed his training as a certified tourism specialist and also obtained an MBA in Tourism and Leisure from the University of Salzburg. Kohli brings impressive experience in the field of digitalisation and has an excellent network within the Swiss tourism industry. He will take up his new role on 15 May 2026. 

“In Markus Kohli, we are gaining an experienced travel professional for the operational management of STC. He brings with him many years of industry expertise and valuable know-how for the upcoming, groundbreaking years of digitalisation”, said Brigitte Berger Kurzen, President of Switzerland Travel Centre. 

Markus Kohli succeeds Michael Maeder, who is leaving the tour operator after 18 years – 14 of which he spent as CEO. Michael Maeder has led Switzerland Travel Centre successfully and purposefully, transforming it into a highly significant and relevant tour operator. Targeted investments were made in e-commerce for direct customers, and key foundations were further developed. At the same time, B2B sales were successfully expanded. Furthermore, new markets were tapped, particularly in Asia, where the establishment of the subsidiary in Hong Kong marked a significant step. STC now occupies a highly successful niche with a focus on multi-day trips in Switzerland. “I would like to thank Michael Maeder from the bottom of my heart for his long-standing, dedicated and consistently prudent leadership”, said Brigitte Berger Kurzen, President of STC.