The foundation board of the Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS) unanimously appointed Sandro Mesquita as the new CEO of the GIMS as of 1 May 2020. This decision comes after the previous CEO Olivier Rihs’ November 2019 announcement he would leave the Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS) on March 31, 2020. Further to a decree from the Swiss Federal Council in response to the coronavirus pandemic outbreak, the 90th edition, which he had initiated, had to be cancelled shortly before its opening on February 28, 2020.
Sandro Mesquita has a rich experience in the fields of marketing and communication. He holds a Federal Diploma in Marketing and an Executive Master of Sciences in Communication Management from the University of Lugano, with a Certificate in Management obtained at UCLA. Mesquita has been employed for 15 years in both national and international companies in the telecommunications and energy sectors where he was in charge of marketing and business development. In 2013, he joined one of the largest international communication groups, initially managing the Geneva office of a branding consultancy, and later rose to MD of the group's creative communications hub in Lausanne. His strong experience in the development of new marketing strategies, combined with his leadership skills, make him the perfect candidate for the demanding position of CEO of GIMS.
Maurice Turrettini, president, GIMS Foundation, thanks Olivier Rihs for his great commitment in the preparation of GIMS and his implication during the difficult weeks in spring 2020 following the cancellation of GIMS. Further, Turretini wishes Mesquita all the best, and looks forward to working with him for the next edition of the Geneva International Motor Show.