Altendorf, Switzerland, September 17, 2025 – Vi Partners, Switzerland’s longest-established venture capital firm, announces three new hires, reinforcing its healthcare investment expertise and operational backbone. The appointments reflect Vi’s continued growth strategy and commitment to supporting innovative entrepreneurs in health and technology.

Deepening healthcare investment expertise

Vi Partners welcomes Dr. Gretchen van Steenwyk as Principal. Gretchen brings a strong track record in healthcare investing, working closely with teams to define growth strategies and navigate complex market environments. She holds a PhD in Neuroepigenetics from ETH Zurich and has advised and invested across the life sciences sector, further strengthening Vi’s ability to identify and support breakthrough healthcare ventures.

Joining as Associate, Dr. Maria Escala-García adds further depth to the healthcare team. With a PhD in Bioinformatics from Leiden University and a background in HealthTech consulting, Maria specializes in data-driven analysis of emerging technologies and market opportunities. Her academic rigor and sector knowledge will help Vi Partners sharpen its focus on transformative healthcare solutions.

Together, Gretchen and Maria reinforce Vi’s reputation for combining scientific excellence with investment acumen in its healthcare strategy.

Strengthening operational foundations

In parallel, Irene Seebacher will join Vi Partners as Finance & Operations Manager. With extensive experience in finance and process management, across large FinTechs and startups, Irene will enhance Vi’s institutional capabilities and ensure robust financial support for portfolio companies. Her appointment underscores Vi’s commitment to operational excellence and financial discipline as the firm continues to scale.

Driving growth with a forward-looking team

The three hires mark an important step in Vi Partners’ growth journey. With the addition of two accomplished scientists and an experienced operations manager, Vi is investing in both intellectual capital and institutional strength.

These appointments strengthen the firm’s first-class team and underpin Vi Partners’ long-standing commitment to building a high-performing organization.

About Vi Partners
Vi Partners is the longest-established Swiss Venture Capital firm. For more than 20 years, Vi Partners has been supporting innovative Technology and Healthcare companies, investing CHF 350m in 73 startups. Vi Partners-managed funds are backed by Switzerland’s most visible companies and institutions, including ETH Zurich, ABB, Bühler, UBS, Hilti, McKinsey, Nestlé, Schindler, Sulzer, Suva and ZKB as well as the European Investment Fund and many other institutional investors. Learn more on: www.vipartners.ch