Rudolf Noser, known as Ruedi, established a software company in 1988 in Winterthur that eventually evolved into the international Noser Group. A figure bridging the technical and political spheres of Switzerland, he built a business portfolio focused on telecommunications and computer science before transitioning into a lengthy career representing the Canton of Zurich in the federal parliament.
Technical Foundations
Born in Glarus on 14 April 1961, Noser grew up in a household centered around manual labor, with his father working as an auto mechanic. Between 1978 and 1982, he completed a formal apprenticeship as a mechanic at the industrial firm Rieter. He transitioned to electrical engineering studies at the University of Applied Sciences in Rapperswil, graduating in 1985. Later, he broadened his academic qualifications through programs at the University of St. Gallen and the University of Zurich, focusing on business management and administration.
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Noser founded his first software enterprise with his brother in 1988, which was rebranded as the Noser Group one year later. By 1996, he held full ownership of the entity. The group manages operations across Switzerland, Germany, and Canada, employing roughly 600 people. Beyond his primary holdings, Noser has held diverse board positions. He served as chairman of Esmertec AG between 2006 and 2008 and later took roles at Crealogix Holding AG, AMC International Alfa Metalcraft, and Credit Suisse Asset Management AG. His business reach also extends to the management of natürli zürioberland ag and Bucher + Suter Inc.
Parliamentary Career
Noser entered national politics as a member of the FDP, serving on the executive board of the national party from 1999 to 2009. His legislative tenure began in the National Council, where he served from 2003 until 2015. Following this, he was elected to the Council of States in November 2015, winning reelection in 2019. He concluded his time in federal office in 2023, having also participated in the cantonal council of Zurich. Throughout his time in Bern, he maintained advocacy roles in organizations like ICTswitzerland and Swiss Engineering.
Fast facts
- Born: 14 April 1961, Glarus
- Primary occupations: Entrepreneur, politician, electrical engineer
- National Council tenure: 2003–2015
- Council of States tenure: 2015–2023
- Education: University of Zurich, University of St. Gallen
- Citizenship: Switzerland
- Business affiliation: Noser Group
- Language: German
Questions readers ask
What is the primary industry of the Noser Group?
The group focuses on measurement and control technology, telecommunications, and computer science.
Did Ruedi Noser hold any leadership positions in professional associations?
Yes, he served as the Central President of Swiss Engineering from 2000 to 2006 and as president of ICTswitzerland from 2009 to 2017.
Achievements
- Educated at University of Zurich and University of St. Gallen
