From baby diapers to the future of the semiconductor industry: For more than 25 years, Hervé Stämpfli has not only been part of ETEL SA’s technological journey – he has also built cultural bridges, led teams and nurtured his personal passions. A conversation about unexpected opportunities, quiet values and an insatiable curiosity.
When chance meets calling – How Hervé joined ETEL
Sometimes a simple coffee moment can shape your future. That’s how it was for Hervé Stämpfli, who, after completing his engineering degree, stumbled upon a newspaper ad for ETEL – without a concrete plan, but full of curiosity. „I had so many questions about my future but hardly any answers. I’m more guided by feelings than by a fixed plan,“ he says.
On 15 March 1999, he started his first job at ETEL – a decision that would shape his life. The start was diverse: from a system for producing baby diapers to a robotic solution for car painting and even a cork-twisting machine – ETEL’s technology had many applications. „I joined a young, dynamic company led by a CEO who was talented, empathetic and passionate – Nicolas Wavre.“
Growth, change and foresight
Building up the US subsidiary was a major milestone: „Bringing my family to a new country, setting up an organisation, launching a business from scratch – it was intense. And educational.“ Back in Switzerland, he laid the foundations for product management at ETEL.
What excites him most today is variety: „Our customers are working on tomorrow’s technologies. I never know what my day will look like – but I know I’ll learn something.“
He sees the semiconductor industry as the most exciting learning field: „It’s technologically challenging, economically influential and politically relevant. A market that affects us all.“
Team spirit, creative arts and the power of silence
In his personal life, Hervé is just as multifaceted: he loves DIY projects, is a passionate storyteller, and dedicates time to writing, painting and ceramics. „I need that balance. I try to feed the right side of my brain at work too – but it definitely works better at home.“
Values are important to him – preferably the quiet kind: „I believe in team spirit, excellence, passion – but also humility and silence. Loudness is not my thing.“ He finds inspiration in people who are content with their lives, „even if it’s hard – without ever complaining.“
Hervé Stämpfli, Head of Product Management at ETEL
“I never know what my day will look like – but I know I’ll learn something.”
Visions and a two-wheeled dream
As Head of Product Management, Hervé now looks to the future: „I’d like to take a step back from operations, gain more perspective and help shape the strategic direction of ETEL.“
His wish for the industry? „A greener, more circular, more environmentally friendly high-tech world for the generations to come.“ And his personal dream? „I want to learn to ride a motorcycle. Soon.“
His advice to young people? „Enjoy your work. Join a small to mid-sized company. Try out many things. And hey – why not apply at ETEL?“