The UFI Board of Directors has elected Wolfram N. Diener, President & CEO of Messe Düsseldorf Group, as President of UFI – The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry for the 2026–2027 term. He will assume the role during the 93rd UFI Global Congress in Bahrain in November 2026, and join UFI’s Presidential Trio as Incoming President at the 92nd Congress in Hong Kong in November 2025.
This election honors Diener’s distinguished global experience and highlights the international stature of Messe Düsseldorf. Since 2020, Diener has led Messe Düsseldorf’s strategic repositioning and expansion, establishing it as a key global exhibition organizer.
Diener has over 20 years of leadership in Asia’s exhibition scene, having held senior roles at UBM Asia, Marina Bay Sands Singapore, and the Shanghai New International Expo Centre. He joined Messe Düsseldorf in 2018 and became CEO in 2020. He currently serves as Treasurer of the UFI Executive Committee and sits on its Board of Directors.
Diener commented:
“I’m honored to take on this role during a time of global transformation. Our industry has a unique power to connect, inspire, and enable progress. We must be present where the economy needs us most—emerging markets and global exchange crossroads. I’m committed to fostering a collaborative, future-focused exhibition industry that makes a real impact.”
As UFI President, Diener will chair the General Assembly, Executive Committee, and Board of Directors, shaping UFI’s strategic direction and global initiatives.
Hugh Jones, outgoing UFI President and CEO of RX, praised Diener’s appointment:
“Wolfram brings exceptional leadership and global perspective. Under his guidance, Messe Düsseldorf has seen remarkable growth. His deep industry insight will be key in leading UFI into the future.”
Chris Skeith OBE, UFI CEO, also welcomed Diener’s election:
“Wolfram’s vast experience and understanding of both organizer and venue roles will be invaluable as we lead UFI into its next chapter.”
Dr. Stephan Keller, Mayor of Düsseldorf and Chair of Messe Düsseldorf’s Supervisory Board, added:
“This is a great honor for Wolfram and for Düsseldorf. His election reflects our city’s global relevance in business, technology, and innovation.”
About UFI
Founded in 1925, UFI is the leading global association for the exhibition industry, representing over 50,000 professionals in 90 countries. It is headquartered in Paris with regional offices across Asia, Europe, the Middle East & Africa, and the Americas.
