GERMANY | Koelnmesse Inc. is entering a new chapter with a structured and collaborative leadership transition.
Effective January 2026, Darrin Stern will become President and Managing Director, succeeding Mette Petersen, who will retire on the 30th of June 2026, after 22 years of remarkable leadership.
Petersen will continue in an advisory capacity through the first half of the year to ensure a smooth handover, mentor team members, and support key initiatives with Koelnmesse’s headquarters in Cologne, Germany. This planned transition reinforces Koelnmesse’s commitment to continuity, growth, and long-term success in North America.
Over the past 22 years, Petersen has grown the U.S. office across all key performance indicators, including profitability, personnel, exhibition square footage, and specialised exhibit options. She also introduced and successfully launched three major trade events in North America.
Under her leadership, she has forged a legacy of strong events, enduring industry relationships, growing recognition of Koelnmesse in North America, and a resilient team positioned for continued success.
“It has been the honour of my career to lead Koelnmesse Inc. for more than 22 years," said Mette Petersen, outgoing President and Managing Director of Koelnmesse Inc.
"Together with an incredible team, we introduced new shows, expanded our reach, and secured our place in one of the most dynamic exhibition markets in the world. I am deeply proud of what we have accomplished, and I leave with full confidence that the foundation we built will carry Koelnmesse forward for decades to come."
Stern brings his own 22-year legacy with the company, most recently serving as Vice President of Business Development and Show Director for h+h americas and the Fiber+Fabric Craft Festival.
Throughout his tenure, he has contributed to every show supported by Koelnmesse Inc., including leading roles in USA Pavilion initiatives. He has been instrumental in building the company’s IT infrastructure and sales systems.
“I’m honoured and energised to step into this role. Mette built something extraordinary, and the team she led is a powerhouse," he said.
"My goal is simple: protect her legacy by building on it. We’ll leverage our strengths, expand our family of events, and ensure the next chapter at Koelnmesse Inc. is more dynamic and future-ready than ever."
Looking ahead, Koelnmesse Inc. will continue expanding the family of events in North America, bringing more industries and communities together under one global platform. Over the next decade, the company is committed to:
• Growing its portfolio of shows across both established and emerging markets
• Expanding the reach of USA pavilions and deepening international partnerships
• Building new opportunities for exhibitors and attendees that foster commerce, creativity, and collaboration
• Ensuring the Koelnmesse brand remains synonymous with excellence, reliability, and global connection
Together, the team at Koelnmesse Inc. is poised to build on the strong foundation laid by Petersen and drive the next era of progress, marked by growth, international presence, and deeper industry impact.
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