People & Careers

expopartner GmbH, JOKE Event AG, ottomisu communication GmbH and PHOCUS BRAND CONTACT GmbH & Co. KG are combining their expertise and corporate responsibility within a single group of companies. Over 300 experts will be working together in future. The four agencies will remain independent and provide a solution to the growing complexity of the communications market.

The Schlierem-based promotional and logistics company will in future be responsible for the warehousing, fulfilment and transport of Samsung Electronics Switzerland’s marketing and POS materials.

Berlin, 21 September 2026 – A new management team in place ahead of the 2027 World Radio Conference: the Association of Professional Wireless Production Technologies (APWPT) has a new board of directors.

Hanover, 14 September 2026 – A new addition to CODA Audio Deutschland GmbH: from 1 October, Michael Linden will be joining the Hanover-based audio specialists as Sales Manager for the live and hire divisions. The experienced industry and product specialist has been familiar with CODA Audio for many years and brings with him technical expertise as well as extensive experience in sales and project management.

The 34-year-old is taking over as head of the four-star hotel

DEHOGA President Zöllick: “Mini-jobs must remain affordable – we must prevent further burdens”

Mark Vassallo is retiring – he will be succeeded as Vice President of Sales by David Hilton. Hilton’s responsibilities include, amongst other things, liaising with the global sales team. ETC President James Foster: “Mark has left a lasting mark on the company – in David, we have found the perfect successor.”

Lutz Rathmann is to become CEO of Riedel Communications – Anthony Zuyderhoff will take charge of the consolidated, customer-focused organisation as CCO

Dr Berndt Schmidt remains Artistic Director and Managing Director of the Friedrichstadt-Palast Berlin. His current contract expires in 2029. At its meeting on 24 July 2026, the Supervisory Board, acting on a proposal by its new Chairman, Dr Alexander Steinhilber, extended his contract by a further five years until 31 July 2034.

The long-serving president of the association passed away on 24 June at the age of 82. Fischer shaped the German hospitality industry for decades – playing a key role in securing the reduction in VAT for the hotel sector, the abolition of taxation on tips and the tax exemption for service charges. A passionate host and networker.