Erhard Wienkamp, who has been a pivotal figure at Messe Düsseldorf since 1993, is stepping down as operative managing director, effective 1 August. Wienkamp’s career at Messe Düsseldorf began with project management for major trade shows like Papro, K, and interpack. By 2002, he had risen to become the divisional manager for the international trade show business, overseeing numerous key portfolios including plastics & rubber, health & medical technologies, caravaning & outdoor, wine & spirits, and print technologies.

During his tenure, Wienkamp played a crucial role in expanding Messe Düsseldorf’s global footprint. Under his leadership, the trade shows gained significant international prominence, contributing to record-setting figures in exhibitor and visitor diversity. In 2023, Messe Düsseldorf saw 78% of its exhibiting companies from abroad and 39% of attendees coming from outside Germany.

Wienkamp will be succeeded by Marius Berlemann, who has been with Messe Düsseldorf for 13 years and most recently served as general manager of Messe Düsseldorf Shanghai.