Ten questions to

Michel Rubli

SIG Gemeinnützige Stiftung

When did you hear about the SIG site, and in what context did the name come up?

That was back in August 1997, when I began working for SIG as a young financial accountant.

How did your commitment to the SIG foundation come about?

In July 2012, I took on the role of head of trusts within SIG Combibloc Group AG with responsibility for six different foundations among other things. This position includes management of the SIG foundation.

What type of institutions and establishments does the SIG foundation support?

The purpose of the SIG foundation is to strengthen and foster projects and institutions of a charitable nature as well as economic development at a general level within the canton of Schaffhausen.

"WE'RE NOW READY FOR THE NEXT STEP. WE WANT TO CREATE A VARIETY OF USES FOR THIS UNIQUE LOCATION THAT IS FIT FOR THE FUTURE."

Why is the transformation of the SIG site important to you?

Because existing building use at this unique location directly next to the Rhine Falls should be extended and developed to create a variety of uses that is fit for the future. Now is the right time for this step.

How do you see the SIG site today?

The SIG site is an important workplace for around 1,100 people, directly next to the largest waterfall in Europe.

What do you think the SIG site will look like in 20 years?

The SIG site will be an open, friendly neighbourhood for work, living, education and leisure. It is already an interesting meeting place within the municipality of Neuhausen am Rheinfall.

How do you feel about the cooperation between the municipality of Neuhausen, the project team and the foundation?

The cooperation is working very well, with both the municipal authorities and the canton of Schaffhausen. You could certainly say that a good example is the agreement reached concerning the protection of historical buildings on the site after intensive but fair negotiations.

Can you see any challenges with regard to the planned next steps?

Planning work for the development of the Hochbau, Grünerbaum and Weinberg complex is in full swing, and construction is already due to commence in autumn 2016. We also hope to open up the northern part of the site and to change how some of it is used, which in turn requires an official zone change.

How would you say the tenants and the locals have reacted to the planned transformation process?

The tenants and the local population have welcomed open communication. They are looking forward to the further development of the site and are keen to see the results of the first major construction project.

What basic benefits do you think this project brings for the local population?

The aim of the foundation is to develop the site in a sustainable manner, making a significant contribution to increasing the attractiveness of Neuhausen am Rheinfall and the entire Schaffhausen region.


MICHEL RUBLI

Managing director of the SIG foundation
(in office since 2012)
Head of trusts within SIG Combibloc Group AG