On November 11, Palo Alto–based Partner Fred Adam accepted the title of Honorary Ambassador from Greater Zurich Area (GZA), a Swiss government agency that promotes foreign companies’ investment in the region.

“Greater Zurich Area’s success as a business location is achieved through the accomplishments of many brilliant individuals working together. You are one of the key personalities supporting our mission in United States and we would like to express our gratitude for your outstanding work,” noted GZA Director Jillian Ochs. 

Adam, an international tax specialist of Swiss descent, has worked with GZA for more than 20 years to advise businesses on expanding or opening in Switzerland. The organization markets the Greater Zurich Area (Zurich, Zug, etc.) as a prime location for international businesses—particularly technology and biomedical companies—and helps them establish operations in the area, as well as assisting Swiss companies that are extending operations and businesses into the US. 

“Given Switzerland's small size, the country needs to attract international talent and investment to stay competitive,” says Adam. “I have insights into the culture and business climates in the United States and Switzerland, and I appreciate being able to draw on my experience to help companies build cross-border networks and operations. Additionally, the GZA has been a regular referral source for Swiss companies coming to the US and Silicon Valley to set up tech hubs, distributors, R&D centers, and other US based operations.” 

Adam officially received the title of Honorary Ambassador at a November 11 ceremony after meeting with GZA leadership, which featured remarks from Suzi LeVine, the US ambassador to Switzerland under the Obama Administration. As an honorary ambassador, he will continue working to attract and support companies and entrepreneurs interested in doing business in the Greater Zurich Area, as well as those companies coming to the US from Switzerland.