Voutilainen Names Angélique Singele as CEO in a Strategic Move for Long-Term Independence

Voutilainen Announces New CEO

In a notable development for the independent watchmaking sector, Voutilainen has appointed Angélique Singele as its chief executive officer. The decision, announced on December 3, 2025, is part of a long-term strategy to secure the brand's independence and ensure a smooth transition as founder Kari Voutilainen gradually steps back from administrative duties.

The announcement came shortly after Dubai Watch Week, where Voutilainen participated in a panel discussion on succession planning for founder-led independent watch brands. During that conversation, he shared his thoughts on the future of his company, which encompasses the Voutilainen workshop, dial maker Comblémine, guilloché specialist Brodbeck Guillochage, and case maker Voutilainen & Cattin.

A Shift in Leadership Focus

With Singele taking the helm, Voutilainen intends to devote more time to what he loves most: creating watches, developing unique pieces, and nurturing client relationships. He has often expressed frustration with the long hours spent on management and administrative tasks, which detract from his passion for watchmaking.

Voutilainen has considered the long-term fate of his business since early in his career. He once remarked that there are only three possible outcomes: stopping the business, selling it, or having the family continue it. The appointment of Singele signals his preference for a path that maintains independence while preparing for the future, especially since his children are still relatively young.

The Role of the Voutilainen Family

Voutilainen's children are expected to play significant roles in the company down the line. His daughter, Venla, is a trained watchmaker currently overseeing after-sales at Urban Jürgensen, while his son is pursuing studies at a technical university. The family's involvement underscores the long-term vision behind the leadership change.

The Voutilainen enterprise now employs 80 people, reflecting its growth from a small independent workshop to a vertically integrated group. Voutilainen also serves as co-chief of Urban Jürgensen alongside Alex Rosenfield.

About Angélique Singele

Singele brings a wealth of experience to her new role. She joined Voutilainen in 2020 as a logistician and was promoted to chief operating officer just a year later. Following the acquisition of Brodbeck Guillochage, she was also appointed as a director of that subsidiary.

Her career began in watchmaking at Rolex, followed by stints in movement development at LTM and Zenith. She later moved into logistics, working at Comblémine and ETA. This blend of technical and managerial expertise gives her a unique perspective as CEO, one that should help guide Voutilainen into its next chapter.

The appointment of Singele is widely seen as a positive step for the brand, ensuring that Voutilainen's legacy of independent, high-end watchmaking continues for years to come.