A legend leaves the #SGSteam

After decades of exciting projects around the world, we bid farewell to our site manager Didi Thurnher, who is now heading into a well-earned retirement. He has been part of our team since the founding of SGS Industrial Services and has witnessed its development from the very beginning. In this interview, he looks back on his time with us.

• Your first project for SGS Industrial Services?

"My first major lump-sum project with SGS was an assembly job at Swiss Krono in Menznau. Initially planned for two months, it ended up lasting two years! It was an intense time, but that’s exactly what I loved about it."

• Your favorite memory with SGS Industrial Services?

"Definitely the project in Russia for Mayr-Melnhof. The conditions there were brutal – freezing winters, tough accommodations, and a rough daily life. But the team was incredible. We stuck together, overcame challenges, and despite everything, had an amazing time."

• The most impressive place you visited through SGS Industrial Services?

"I had the chance to work in Asia for SGS – in China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Taiwan… These experiences shaped me. The cultures, the people, the food – it was simply fascinating."

• Your last project?

"My final project took me to Jacksonville, USA. I spent a few weeks preparing and overseeing the project before handing it over to my successor – a good feeling."

• What does SGS Industrial Services mean to you?

"SGS is like a family to me. The bond may sometimes be stronger or weaker, but it is always there. From the very beginning, reliability has been the top priority: a handshake means something, and you can always count on each other. Punctual payments and the appreciation of personal matters have always shown that people truly matter here. That’s what makes SGS special."

• And what’s next?

"I’m a world traveler at heart. Now I’ll take the time to travel and visit the many friends I’ve made on construction sites over the years. The world is calling – and this time, without the job site stress!"