Lausanne, Switzerland | Hospitality Education & Leadership

EHL Group has announced an important leadership transition that will shape the future direction of one of the world’s most respected names in hospitality education. Dr Achim Schmitt has been appointed as the next CEO of EHL Group, with his tenure set to begin on January 1, 2027.

Schmitt, who currently serves as Dean and a member of EHL’s Executive Leadership Team, will succeed Dr Markus Venzin. Venzin will conclude his tenure as CEO at the end of 2026 after guiding EHL through a period of strategic transformation, international expansion, and institutional growth.

A New Leadership Chapter for EHL Group

The appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for EHL Group as it continues to strengthen its position in global hospitality and business education.

Over the past several years, EHL has expanded its international presence while evolving its academic programmes to meet the changing needs of the hospitality industry. Under Markus Venzin’s leadership, the group strengthened its strategic direction, developed its presence across Switzerland and international markets, and reached several important institutional milestones.

Among those achievements were AACSB accreditation and B Corp certification, highlighting EHL’s focus on academic excellence, responsible business practices, and long-term impact.

With Schmitt preparing to take the helm, the group is now looking toward its next phase with education and academic excellence expected to remain central to its strategy.

Achim Schmitt Brings Strong Academic Leadership Experience

Dr Achim Schmitt brings extensive international experience in academic leadership to his new role.

As Dean and a member of EHL’s Executive Leadership Team, he has been closely involved in strengthening the institution’s academic foundations and supporting the continued development of its educational offering.

His appointment reflects EHL’s intention to place its educational mission at the centre of its next strategic cycle. As CEO, Schmitt will have the responsibility of connecting EHL’s academic vision with the wider operational, commercial, and strategic direction of the Group.

His background in academia and international education also gives him valuable insight into how hospitality schools must adapt as the industry changes.

Preparing the Next Generation of Hospitality Leaders

Hospitality education is undergoing significant change. Technology, artificial intelligence, sustainability, evolving consumer expectations, and emerging business models are transforming the way the industry operates.

Today’s hospitality professionals need more than traditional hotel management skills. They increasingly require business knowledge, digital capabilities, practical experience, entrepreneurial thinking, and strong interpersonal skills.

EHL has already been responding to these developments through initiatives such as its School of Practical Arts, which focuses on practical hospitality competencies designed for an increasingly digital and AI-driven industry.

Under Schmitt’s leadership, this direction is expected to develop further, with a continued emphasis on practical learning, academic rigour, and human-centred leadership.

EHL Enters Its Next Phase of International Growth

Schmitt will take over at a time when EHL Group enters its next stage of development from a position of strength.

The institution has continued to benefit from strong student demand, modern campuses in Switzerland and Asia, solid financial performance, and a growing international reputation within hospitality and business education.

These foundations give the incoming CEO a strong platform from which to guide EHL’s future strategy.

However, maintaining the right balance will be important. As EHL expands internationally, it will need to preserve the academic standards, Swiss hospitality values, and educational traditions that have helped establish its global reputation.

A Carefully Planned Leadership Transition

Although Schmitt will officially become CEO on January 1, 2027, preparations for the transition will begin well ahead of his start date.

Markus Venzin will remain CEO until the end of 2026 and will continue overseeing the group’s operations during the transition period. During this time, Schmitt will work closely with the Board and Executive Leadership Team to prepare for EHL’s next strategic cycle.

The structured handover is intended to provide stability and continuity while giving Schmitt the opportunity to prepare for the broader responsibilities of his new position.

Markus Venzin to Remain Connected to EHL

Although Markus Venzin will step down as CEO, his relationship with EHL Group will continue.

Following the completion of his tenure, Venzin will support the institution as Vice President of the International Advisory Board. His continued involvement will allow EHL to benefit from his experience and international perspective as the organization enters its next phase.

His time as CEO has included significant strategic transformation, institutional strengthening, and international development, helping position EHL for continued growth in the global hospitality education sector.

The Future of Hospitality Education

Schmitt’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment for hospitality education worldwide.

The hospitality industry has expanded well beyond traditional hotel management. Today’s professionals can be found working across tourism, technology, real estate, lifestyle brands, customer experience, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and other rapidly developing areas.

For EHL, the challenge will be to maintain the principles that have defined its Swiss hospitality education legacy while ensuring its students are prepared for an industry that is changing at unprecedented speed.

Schmitt’s academic background and focus on practical education provide a strong foundation for addressing this challenge. His leadership is expected to place education, practical skills, academic excellence, and people-centred leadership at the heart of EHL’s future direction.

Looking Ahead to EHL’s Next Chapter

With Dr Achim Schmitt set to become CEO of EHL Group in January 2027, the institution is preparing to enter a new era of leadership.

His combination of academic expertise, leadership experience, and international perspective positions him to guide EHL as it continues its mission of developing future hospitality and business leaders.

At the same time, Markus Venzin’s continued involvement through the International Advisory Board will provide valuable continuity during the transition.

As EHL looks toward the future, Schmitt’s appointment signals a continued commitment to combining the traditions of Swiss hospitality education with the skills and perspectives required by the modern global hospitality industry.

Congratulations to Dr Achim Schmitt on his appointment as CEO of EHL Group. His leadership will come at an exciting time for EHL as the institution continues shaping the future of hospitality education and preparing the next generation of global hospitality leaders.

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