Transition with vision: knowledge transfer at CSS

Diversity has high priority at CSS and shapes our corporate culture. By embracing different perspectives, we benefit from a rich and varied form of collaboration, creating exciting development opportunities for all employees. A good example of this is the arched career.

Viola Duss

4 March 2025 | 5 Min. Reading Time

A model for successful succession planning

An arched career describes an active role transition in which leadership responsibilities and tasks are reallocated. It involves more than just handing over duties to a successor; it is a deliberate reorientation for both parties, tailored to their individual career development.

The transition between Vito and Fabian is an example of how a successful succession can be structured. Vito, who has led HR Learning for many years, takes a step back to make room for Fabian. Through targeted knowledge transfer and mentoring, Vito’s expertise remains within the organisation while enabling Fabian to grow into his new leadership role.

It’s fulfilling to pass on my knowledge and ensure the department continues to benefit from my experience. At the same time, I gain space for new professional challenges.

Vito Pandolfo, Head of Specialist Training

Relevance for CSS and its employees

For CSS, supporting arched careers is essential for several reasons. It ensures that valuable knowledge and established values are preserved while guaranteeing a seamless transition. “A structured leadership transition provides stability for both the company and the successor,” explains Fabian, adding: “This model allows for new ideas and visions to be introduced while retaining the experience of the previous person.” Arched careers not only provide stability for the company but also create fresh opportunities for those stepping back.

A structured onboarding process and continuous mentoring ensure that the successor experiences a clear and well-coordinated transition, laying a solid foundation for the new division of roles.

Vito, you’re stepping back to make room for me. What an incredible gesture – one for which I can never thank you enough. Since joining CSS, I’ve had the privilege of learning from you, and I’m grateful to continue benefiting from your experience.

Fabian Fischer, Head of Learning

Success factors for a smooth transition

A successful transition process begins with careful preparation: Vito and Fabian worked closely together, gradually transferring responsibilities and establishing regular feedback loops. “Through our close collaboration, I was able to support Fabian not just professionally but also in conveying cultural values,” says Vito, who sees this step as a bridge “that’s built for the successor without any thought of competition.” In addition to the transfer of skills, the transfer of values is another key aspect of arched careers. Vito placed particular emphasis on trust, composure and the importance of networks.

Naturally, challenges are also part of the process. Fabian had to learn how to balance regulatory projects and changes without completely altering the established leadership style. “Vito supported me in developing my own vision and approaching challenges with confidence.”

For Vito, one of the biggest challenges was accepting his successor’s decisions and letting go. Fabian adds: “Open communication with the team and the confidence to develop one's own leadership style are crucial for successfully growing into a new role.”

It takes courage and is truly admirable when someone consciously hands over decision-making authority and shares their knowledge.

Fabian Fischer, Head of Learning

Arched careers: a key to growth

Arched careers are more than just a succession model – they actively promote intergenerational exchange and enhance the diversity of perspectives within a company. Not only do they strengthen the organisation as a whole, they also serve as a living example of how diversity, knowledge and collaboration can be fostered across generations. The model demonstrates that with the right preparation and a clear focus on values and competencies, a successful transition can be secured – for everyone involved.