Urs Felber, Swiss engineer and businessman (b. 1942)

Urs Felber, born on July 10, 1942, was a distinguished figure in the world of furniture design and a visionary leader whose influence spanned across several prominent companies. Hailing from Egerkingen, Switzerland, Felber's career was marked by a deep commitment to innovation and excellence, solidifying his reputation as a true pioneer in the industry.

His extensive professional journey saw him at the helm of Vitra USA, where he served as CEO. Vitra, renowned globally for its collection of classic and contemporary furniture, played a significant role in shaping modern design, and Felber's leadership contributed to its strategic direction in the American market. Beyond Vitra, his expertise was sought after on various corporate boards, reflecting his broad understanding of the business landscape. He notably served as a board director for companies such as Swissflex, known for its innovative sleep systems, showcasing his engagement with design and functionality across different product categories.

A pivotal aspect of Felber's career was his profound involvement with Dietiker AG, a long-standing Swiss furniture manufacturer celebrated for its high-quality contract furniture and deep-rooted craftsmanship. At Dietiker AG, he held the influential position of chairman and was also a principal shareholder, steering the company through its strategic growth and upholding its legacy of design and production excellence.

Felber's impressive career was built upon a robust educational foundation. He began his academic pursuits in engineering at the prestigious Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH), a globally recognized institution for science and technology in Zurich. This technical background was later complemented by advanced studies in design management, earning him degrees from the esteemed Stanford University in the United States and the University of Fribourg in Switzerland. This unique blend of engineering prowess and sophisticated design management acumen provided him with a holistic perspective, enabling him to bridge the gap between technical innovation, aesthetic appeal, and strategic business leadership in the furniture industry.

Urs Felber passed away on April 26, 2010, at the age of 67. His remarkable legacy, however, continued through his family, as his daughter, Nathalie Felber, subsequently took on the role of CEO at Dietiker AG, ensuring the continued leadership and vision for the esteemed Swiss company.

Frequently Asked Questions about Urs Felber

Who was Urs Felber?
Urs Felber was a highly influential Swiss executive and a pioneer in furniture design, known for his leadership roles at prominent companies like Vitra USA and Dietiker AG. He was celebrated for his unique blend of engineering knowledge and design management expertise.
What were Urs Felber's key professional achievements?
Felber served as the CEO of Vitra USA, a board director for several companies including Swissflex, and was the chairman and principal shareholder of the Swiss furniture company Dietiker AG. His career significantly impacted the strategic direction and design innovation within the furniture industry.
What was Urs Felber's educational background?
He studied engineering at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) in Zurich and further obtained design management degrees from Stanford University in the USA and the University of Fribourg in Switzerland, providing him with a strong interdisciplinary foundation.
What companies was Urs Felber associated with?
Urs Felber was most prominently associated with Vitra USA (as CEO), Swissflex (as a board director), and Dietiker AG (as chairman and principal shareholder).
Who succeeded Urs Felber at Dietiker AG?
Following his passing, Urs Felber's daughter, Nathalie Felber, became the CEO of the Swiss company Dietiker AG, continuing the family's involvement with the esteemed furniture manufacturer.