Wolfram N. Diener becomes President of the International Association of the Exhibition Industry UFI

The election of Wolfram N. Diener as President of the International Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI) for the 2026/27 term of office underlines the international importance of Messe Düsseldorf. With over three decades of industry experience, he will help shape the strategic direction of the global trade fair industry.

Global responsibility for the trade fair industry

As Chairman of the Board of Messe Düsseldorf, Diener will assume a key role in the association's international work. At the 92nd UFI Global Congress in Hong Kong in November 2025, he will join the Executive Committee as President-designate before officially succeeding Hugh Jones at the 93rd Congress in Bahrain one year later. The election by the UFI Board took place in June during the European Events Week in Thessaloniki - a clear signal of Messe Düsseldorf's global networking and high reputation.

Impetus for Düsseldorf as a trade fair location

The state capital Düsseldorf also sees the choice as an award for the entire location. Lord Mayor Dr. Stephan Keller emphasizes the international visibility and the strengthened image of the region as a global center for business and innovation. With his many years of management experience in Asia and Europe as well as his previous role as UFI Treasurer, Diener brings the necessary expertise to further develop the association in a future-oriented manner.

Voice of the industry with an international perspective

Diener wants to position the trade fair industry as a bridge builder between business, science and politics. The aim is to create a sustainable, networked and effective global industry. UFI CEO Chris Skeith and his predecessor Hugh Jones expressly welcome the decision and point to Diener's deep understanding of the industry and his international perspective. His election is seen as the starting point for a new, dynamic phase in the global exhibition industry.