Eric Bernard has officially assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer at Sonova Holding AG, effective September 15, 2025. Bernard joined the Group on July 1, 2025, and succeeds Arnd Kaldowski, who served as CEO since April 2018. The leadership transition was initially communicated on May 9, 2025, ensuring a structured handover process for the Switzerland-based hearing care solutions provider.
This change in executive leadership comes at a pivotal time for Sonova, which operates through four business units: Hearing Instruments, Audiological Care, Consumer Hearing, and Cochlear Implants. The company's portfolio includes core brands such as Phonak, Unitron, AudioNova, Sennheiser (under license), and Advanced Bionics, along with recognized regional brands. With a presence in more than 100 countries, Sonova serves a growing consumer base through globally diversified sales and distribution channels.
The leadership transition holds significance given Sonova's substantial market position and financial performance. In the 2024/25 financial year, the Group generated sales of CHF 3.9 billion, achieving a net profit of CHF 547 million. The company employs approximately 18,000 people worldwide who work toward Sonova's vision of creating a world where everyone enjoys the delight of hearing.
Bernard's appointment as CEO carries implications for the company's continued innovation trajectory. Sonova has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to research and development, recently earning recognition as number 12 among the most innovative companies in Europe in 2025 by Fortune magazine. This ranking was selected from 300 companies across 21 countries and 16 industries, highlighting Sonova's competitive position in the European market.
The new CEO will guide Sonova through evolving market conditions and global economic factors that could impact the hearing care industry. The company acknowledges that forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties including exchange rates, legal provisions, market conditions, and activities by competitors. Bernard's leadership will be crucial in navigating these challenges while maintaining Sonova's innovation edge in personal audio devices, wireless communication systems, audiological care services, hearing aids, and cochlear implants.
