Helene Budliger Artieda seeks new roles as Seco head departs

Helene Budliger Artieda, the outgoing head of the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (Seco), has confirmed she is seeking new professional challenges following her resignation. After 41 years of federal service, her current contract is set to end on March 31, 2027. While she has received numerous job offers ranging from non-profit roles to board positions, she has not yet signed a new agreement and intends to take at least a two-month break after her departure.

Despite her upcoming departure, Budliger Artieda remains active in her current role. This includes diplomatic efforts regarding Nestlé’s situation in Russia. The Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (EDA) confirmed that Seco and the EDA are working closely with Nestlé to provide diplomatic support. The goal is to intervene with Russian authorities to allow the company to present its position and to work toward lifting the compulsory administration order imposed on the food giant on September 17.

During a recent meeting with Seco staff in Bern, Budliger Artieda denied rumors of conflict with the Federal Council.