Lausanne, 5th February, 2024 – EHL Hospitality Business School proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Achim Schmitt as the new Dean of EHL Hospitality Business School, encompassing both EHL’s Undergraduate and Graduate School programs, effective from November 1st, 2023. This significant decision marks a new chapter in the school’s recent history.
Dr. Schmitt, who holds a PhD from the University of Geneva and a habilitation from the University Paris-Dauphine, joined EHL in 2013 as Professor of Strategic Management, and spearheaded EHL’s graduate and postgraduate programs since November 2014. He also served as Associate Dean of Graduate Programs since January 2017, before his nomination as Dean of the Graduate School in July 2020. Since January 2023, Dr. Schmitt has been nominated to EHL’s Executive Leadership Team, which oversees the Group’s activities. During his terms, he has successfully envisioned and launched several EHL Masters & executive programs, and significantly contributed to the academic development and thought leadership of the institution through global academic and corporate partnerships.
Dr. Schmitt's journey from a business turnaround consultant in Europe to an acclaimed academic and a member of various boards and advisory bodies is a testament to his multifaceted expertise and vision that will benefit EHL’s future.
“I am thrilled to embrace this new role at EHL, and committed to fostering an academic ecosystem where cutting-edge experiential learning techniques converge with practical business insights and emotional intelligence. This will allow us to become a key reference for human-centricity within and across the borders of the hospitality industry" said Dr. Schmitt.
EHL also extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Inès Blal, who will step down as Dean of the Undergraduate School end of February 2024 after 6 years of service. Dr. Blal, who became the youngest ever and the first woman to take on the mandate of Executive Dean at EHL, has led the faculty with commitment and distinction. Her contributions have been invaluable, and she will continue to be a great asset to both EHL’s community and the global hospitality industry through her continued teaching and academic research.
Markus Venzin, CEO of EHL Group expressed his confidence in Dr. Schmitt's appointment: "Dr. Schmitt’s extensive experience in leadership and visionary approach to hospitality management education make him the ideal figure to lead our undergraduate and graduate programs. We are equally grateful to Dr. Blal for her outstanding service and look forward to her further contributions to EHL."
Under Dr. Schmitt's leadership, EHL is poised to enhance its legacy of excellence in hospitality education, driven by human interactions, global perspectives, and a commitment to preparing students to become the human centered leaders of tomorrow.