Christoph Tessmar elected President of ICCA at 2026 Congress
Christoph Tessmar has been elected President of the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) during the 2026 ICCA Congress in Panama City, Panama. The change was announced at the association’s General Assembly and applies to ICCA’s global membership and partners.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- Christoph Tessmar becomes ICCA President
- Timing
- Announced at the 2026 ICCA Congress General Assembly
- Who is affected
- ICCA members, partners and the business events community
The details
- Announced by
- International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA)
- Previous rule
- Marta Gomes served as ICCA President until the 2026 General Assembly.
- New rule
- Christoph Tessmar, Director of the Barcelona Convention Bureau, is now ICCA President.
Election at the 2026 ICCA Congress
The International Congress and Convention Association announced the election of Christoph Tessmar as its new President during the General Assembly held at the 2026 ICCA Congress in Panama City, Panama. The announcement was part of the congress programme and marked a leadership transition for the global business events organisation.
New President’s mandate and priorities
Tessmar will lead ICCA alongside its Board, leadership team and international membership. The association intends to strengthen global advocacy, deepen strategic partnerships and enhance support for members. The new president aims to build on ICCA’s achievements and expand its influence across the business events sector.
- Strengthen global advocacy for the business events industry
- Develop strategic partnerships and member support
- Promote the value of international association meetings
Context of the 2026 Congress
The 2026 ICCA Congress, themed “CrossWorlds: The Crossings We Bring, The Crossings We Choose,” gathered professionals from around the world to discuss collaboration beyond traditional industry boundaries. The congress provided the backdrop for the leadership change and highlighted ICCA’s ambition to foster connections across perspectives, disciplines and industries.
- Theme focuses on cross‑industry collaboration
- Congress serves as platform for ICCA’s strategic announcements
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Existing bookings for the 2026 ICCA Congress remain unchanged.
- Future event participation is not affected by the leadership change.
Cost and documents
- No new fees or documentation are required for ICCA members.
- Travel costs for the congress stay as previously published.
What you need to do
- Members should note the new President’s name for future correspondence.
- No immediate actions are required from attendees or partners.
Who this affects
-
ICCA member organisations
Leadership determines the association’s advocacy and strategic direction.
What to do Update internal records with the new President’s contact details.
-
ICCA strategic partners
Partnerships are coordinated through the President’s office.
What to do Maintain existing partnership agreements; no changes needed.
-
Business events professionals attending the 2026 Congress
The President’s election was announced at the event.
Frequently asked questions
Who is the new President of ICCA?
Christoph Tessmar, Director of the Barcelona Convention Bureau, was elected President of the International Congress and Convention Association at its 2026 General Assembly.
When was the ICCA President elected?
The election was announced during the General Assembly of the 2026 ICCA Congress held in Panama City, Panama.
What does the new ICCA President plan to focus on?
The new President aims to strengthen global advocacy, develop strategic partnerships and increase support for ICCA members, building on the association’s existing achievements.
Will the leadership change affect my ICCA Congress registration?
No. The election does not alter any registration fees, schedules or requirements for attendees of the 2026 ICCA Congress.
Do ICCA members need to submit new paperwork because of the new President?
No additional paperwork or fees are required from members as a result of the leadership transition.
