Lausanne: EHL Group has announced a leadership transition, with Dr Markus Venzin set to step down as CEO at the end of 2026. The EHL Board has appointed Dr Achim Schmitt, currently Dean and a member of the Executive Leadership Team, as CEO of EHL Group, effective January 1, 2027.
Venzin has led EHL through a period of strategic transformation and growth, during which the institution strengthened its position in hospitality and business education globally. Under his leadership, EHL sharpened its strategic direction, reinforced its Swiss and international presence, and achieved key recognitions including AACSB accreditation and B Corp certification.
The institution also expanded its academic offering with the creation of the School of Practical Arts, aimed at equipping students and industry partners with hospitality competencies relevant to the digital and AI-driven environment.
Dr Carole Ackermann, Chairwoman of the Board of EHL Group, said, “Markus has played a pivotal role in shaping EHL’s transformation. Through his strategic vision, determination, and commitment to excellence, he has helped position EHL for long-term success. On behalf of the Board, I would like to express our sincere gratitude for his outstanding leadership and contributions.”
The Board and Executive Leadership Team said EHL is entering a new phase of development following several years of growth and change. With strong student demand, campuses in Switzerland and Asia, solid financial performance and a strengthened international reputation, the institution aims to maintain its position in hospitality and business education.
As the incoming CEO, Schmitt will focus on placing EHL’s educational mandate at the centre of the Group’s activities while maintaining academic rigour and operational excellence. His mandate will also include a focus on practical arts and human-centred leadership to prepare students for a rapidly changing world.
Carole Ackermann added, “The world is experiencing profound geopolitical, societal, and technological change. In this environment, our focus must remain clear: education. Achim combines academic excellence, international leadership experience, and a collaborative leadership style that makes him ideally suited to guide EHL into its next phase. We are delighted to appoint him as the next CEO of EHL Group.”
Commenting on the transition, Markus Venzin said, “The past years have been an extraordinary journey. Together with our employees, students, alumni, and partners, we have strengthened EHL’s global position while reinforcing the values that make our institution unique. The time is right to activate our succession plan and support the next generation of leadership. I am confident that Achim and the entire team will successfully lead EHL into its next chapter.”
Achim Schmitt said, “It is a privilege to be entrusted with this responsibility after having worked closely together with Markus over the last years. Building on the strong foundations established, my priority will be to continue to place our schools and students at the heart of everything we do. Together with our faculty, staff, alumni, industry partners, and students, we will further strengthen our mission to deliver the leading hospitality and service education globally.”
Schmitt currently serves as Dean and is a member of EHL Group’s Executive Leadership Team. He brings international academic leadership experience and has played a role in strengthening EHL’s academic foundations.
Venzin will remain CEO until the end of December 2026 and continue to oversee operational activities. During the transition period, Schmitt will work with the leadership team and Board to prepare the next strategic cycle and ensure continuity.
Following his departure as CEO, Venzin will continue to support EHL as Vice President in the International Advisory Board.
