Koelnmesse Inc. is preparing for a significant leadership change as President and Managing Director Mette Petersen retires after more than two decades at the helm.
Effective January 1, 2026, Darrin Stern will assume the top role, with Petersen remaining through June 30 in an advisory capacity to support a seamless handover. The structured transition reflects the company’s emphasis on continuity and long-term growth in the North American market.
Petersen’s 22-year tenure transformed the US office across every major performance metric, from profitability and staffing to exhibition footprint and specialized exhibit offerings. She launched three major trade events in North America and guided the team to multiple Fastest 50 recognitions and Gold 100 finalist honors from Trade Show Executive.
Her leadership strengthened Koelnmesse’s presence in the region and built a resilient, highly regarded team. “It has been the honor of my career to lead Koelnmesse Inc. for more than 22 years. 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,” she said.
Stern, who steps into the role in January, also brings 22 years with the organization. He most recently served as Vice President of Business Development and Show Director for h+h americas and the Fiber+Fabric Craft Festival.
His contributions span all Koelnmesse-supported events, including leadership roles in USA Pavilion programs, and he played a central part in developing the company’s IT infrastructure and sales systems. “I’m honored and energized to step into this role on January 1. Mette built something extraordinary—and the team she led is a powerhouse. My goal is simple: protect her legacy by build 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,” Stern said.
Petersen’s impact has been recognized throughout the global organization. “Mette Petersen has been a remarkable leader and ambassador for Koelnmesse in North America. Her dedication, vision, and ability to build both successful events and strong partnerships have been invaluable to our global growth strategy. We are deeply grateful for her 22 years of service. With Darrin stepping into the role, we’re confident that Koelnmesse Inc. will continue to thrive and expand our global reach,” said Gerald Böse, President and Chief Executive Officer of Koelnmesse GmbH.
Denis Steker, Senior Vice President International of Koelnmesse GmbH, echoed that sentiment. “Darrin is the ideal leader for this next chapter—he knows our business, our people, and our purpose inside and out. Under Mette’s leadership, Koelnmesse Inc. has flourished. With Darrin at the helm, supported by an outstanding team, I’m confident we’ll continue to accelerate growth and strengthen Koelnmesse’s global family of events,” he said.
The transition marks the end of a defining era for Koelnmesse Inc., while signaling renewed momentum as the organization prepares for its next phase of expansion.
Find out more at: https://www.koelnmesse.com/