New Chapter for Membrapor AG: A Conversation with Jorge Ferreiro

Dr. Jorge Ferreiro has been the CEO of MEMBRAPOR AG since May 1st. In this interview, he offers personal insights, shares what he values most about Membrapor, and talks about where the company is headed.

Jorge, you’ve been with Membrapor longer than since May 1st, but your role as CEO marks a new chapter. What’s the title of that chapter?

The title is: We’re taking off!

Membrapor is an innovative technology company with outstanding products. I want us to become even more market- and customer-oriented. That’s especially important for Swiss companies.

How have you experienced the past 100 days? Can you sum it up briefly?

Very, very intense. Internally, the team has responded very positively to the change, and you can feel the energy and momentum within the company. Customers have also welcomed the transition, and in many conversations it’s become clear that they appreciate this new direction. My initial concern—that I might not be accepted as such a young CEO—has completely disappeared.

Has your view of Membrapor changed now that you're CEO, compared to your previous roles in the company?

To some extent, yes. As Head of Product Management and Business Development, I was already heavily involved in strategic areas. I had a strong influence on both sales and product direction. Now, as CEO, I’ve also discovered some “unfinished business.” Over the next three years, we’ll be tackling challenges like greater automation and modernisation of our final inspection processes.

You’ve already had many customer conversations as CEO. Has anything particularly impressed you?

Definitely. We are seen as a very reliable partner offering high-quality products. Our customers are based all over the world and operate in various industries—which speaks volumes. I was also impressed by how competitive we are in the market, despite the strong Swiss franc and our manufacturing base in Switzerland. This is thanks in part to our procurement strategy, but also to our highly sophisticated production process, which allows us to deliver products efficiently to our clients.

You took on the CEO role during a challenging economic time. What’s your strategy?

Customer retention! That’s the magic word. There are several studies that show customer retention is about five times more cost-effective than acquiring new customers. Membrapor is already active in around 12 market segments. That diversification helps us absorb fluctuations in tough economic times. Our identity isn’t just about high-quality products—it’s also about design consulting. We support our customers from A to Z, helping them accelerate new development projects, for example.

What’s your vision for Membrapor?

Growth. In the coming years, we’re focusing on healthy growth and plan to enter new markets along the way.

What are you looking forward to in the next 100 days?

I’m looking forward to continuing to make fundamental decisions for the future—with great energy and enthusiasm!

«Our identity is defined by high-quality products and comprehensive support of customer projects from start to finish.»

Dr. Jorge Ferreiro, CEO of Membrapor AG