Urs Monstein: «I Proudly Wear an Omega Seamaster»
He wears an Omega Seamaster and is afraid of spiders. In this interview, Urs Monstein from VP Bank talks about his personal drive and the best thing about his job.
Every week, interesting personalities from the world of finance and beyond share their personal preferences on finews.privé.
What is the best thing about your job?
The constant challenges that require fresh solutions every day make my work exciting. I also value working with people – both our clients and our employees.
A moment that changed your life?
Meeting my wife. She has been by my side for 37 years, always having my back so I can fully dedicate myself to my responsibilities at the bank.
What cars do you own? Which is your favorite?
I have two cars: a small, agile one for city driving – ideal when you’re trying to snag the last parking spot – and a more comfortable one for long distances. But truth be told, given my busy schedule, my car often stays in the garage unused. Maybe that’s true luxury – owning a car that patiently waits for its next outgoing.
What advice would you give to your 20-year-old self?
Approach every task with full dedication and passion – that’s essential for professional success. At the same time, stay calm and flexible, especially when planning your next career steps. Things often turn out differently than expected.
What are you particularly proud of?
That I live a fulfilling life – both personally and professionally. Our family is close-knit, and our daughters have each found their own path. Professionally, I’ve achieved many of my goals.
What was your biggest defeat?
One that stands out was a tennis match against my wife. She plays at an impressively high level, and despite my best efforts, I didn’t win a single set. She even had time to put on a training jacket during the game! More seriously, I’ve also learned professionally that setbacks are part of the journey. What matters is drawing the right lessons and continuing to develop.
What is your favorite wine?
I prefer Italian wines – Brunello, Amarone, Montepulciano.
Are you currently working on a project?
Not just one! But our main focus is clearly on steering VP Bank toward profitable and sustainable growth.
What is most important to you at the moment?
That both our clients and our employees recognize the value VP Bank creates every day. That’s the key to long-term success and reaching our goals.
What fashion brands do you prefer?
I wouldn’t call myself a fashion enthusiast. For me, functionality comes first – my clothes, whether suits or casual wear, need to be comfortable and practical. I also ensure they suit my personality and professional role.
What would be the biggest surprise for someone who had to do your job for a day?
The variety of tasks. From strategic decisions and client meetings to operational matters and internal coordination – no two days are ever the same.
What is your personal drive?
Creating value for our clients, our employees, and therefore for the entire VP Bank.
What are you afraid of?
I must admit – I’m not a fan of spiders. In my professional life, I mostly fear stagnation. An organization must continuously evolve and adapt to new circumstances, or it risks falling behind.
Your favorite watch brand?
I proudly wear an Omega Seamaster, which I received over 20 years ago for the successful completion of a complex project.
What do your employees value most about you?
That’s really a question for them. But I try to be an open, reliable, and down-to-earth partner at all times.
Your best investment?
Without question – my education. It not only laid the foundation for my professional career but also shaped my mindset.
Urs Monstein has been CEO of VP Bank in Liechtenstein since November 2024. He previously worked at Julius Baer and UBS, among others. He studied at the University of St.Gallen, where he also worked as a research assistant.
