Leif-Erik Lindner has been appointed as the new Managing Director of IFA Management GmbH, starting from 1 October 2023. This move highlights the company’s focus on long-term planning and innovation in the trade show industry. Lindner’s extensive industry knowledge, sales experience, and leadership skills are expected to strengthen IFA’s position as the leading global trade show. He will succeed Oliver Merlin, who has been leading the company on an interim basis. Merlin, along with co-Managing Director Jörg Arntz, will continue overseeing the planning and execution of the 2023 edition, while Lindner will take charge of planning and implementing IFA Berlin 2024.
“We are delighted that Leif-Erik Lindner will be joining our management team”, says Clarion Ltd. Chief Executive Officer, Lisa Hannant, “His industry knowledge, sales experience and approach to large-scale projects will make a valuable contribution to further strengthening our position as the leading global trade show in our industry.”
Leif-Erik Lindner brings more than 25 years of industry expertise, including a significant tenure at Samsung Electronics Germany. His experience in multicultural settings and his wide industry network will be valuable assets in his role as Managing Director. The appointment is seen as a strategic move to shape IFA’s future direction, with a focus on sustainable growth. IFA Management GmbH, a joint venture between gfu Consumer & Home Electronics GmbH and Clarion Ltd., is responsible for planning and developing IFA, the world’s largest trade show for consumer electronics and home appliances. The upcoming IFA 2023 is scheduled to take place from 1 to 5 September at the Messe Berlin Exhibition Grounds.
