LNM President Calls for Board Overhaul Amidst Ongoing Crisis

Alain Ribaux, president of the Société de navigation sur les lacs de Neuchâtel et Morat (LNM), is advocating for a significant overhaul of the company's board of directors. Following the dismissal of its director in May, the board is preparing for a transformation, with Ribaux, who took the helm in February to guide the company out of a years-long crisis, proposing a reduction in its size.

Ribaux stressed the importance of placing a much stronger emphasis on the skills and expertise of the individuals serving on the board. Currently, the nine-member board comprises representatives from the cantons of Neuchâtel, Vaud, and Fribourg, as well as representatives from major shareholder municipalities like Neuchâtel, Yverdon, Estavayer, and Morat. The board also includes the director of Morat tourisme and a president typically appointed from outside the company's core operations. However, Ribaux notes a critical lack of specialized expertise among its members.

In an interview with Le Temps, Ribaux indicated that a complete re-evaluation of the LNM board is necessary to overcome the persistent crisis. He suggested starting with a blank slate to address the deep-seated issues plaguing the company. The current structure, with representatives from various cantons and municipalities, alongside external figures, has not proven effective in navigating the company's challenges.

The proposed reforms aim to bring in individuals with the specific competencies required for effective governance and strategic direction. The goal is to ensure the board can provide the necessary leadership to steer LNM toward stability and future success, moving beyond the current state of crisis.