Better Stands is pleased to announce the appointment of Roger Lehner as its new Project Manager, taking on the role officially from 1 May 2026.
Roger joins Better Stands with a background that is especially well suited to the initiative and where it is headed. His previous role Senior Operations & Sustainability Executive at IMEX Group, included operating at the point where organisers, venues and service providers come together, while also working closely on sustainability. His commitment to sustainable business practices is shaped by previous roles at the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and Alternative Bank Switzerland, a financial institution founded on social and ecological principles. That combination gives him a strong understanding of the relationships, realities and opportunities that shape progress across the exhibition sector.
For Better Stands, that is important. The initiative depends on collaboration across the industry and on turning shared ambition into practical action. Roger brings both the broader industry perspective and the hands-on understanding needed to help move that work forward.
In his new role, Roger will help drive the continued growth of Better Stands internationally. His focus will include bringing new members into the initiative, strengthening engagement with existing participants, developing new partnerships, and supporting the broader visibility and adoption of Better Stands across the global exhibition landscape. He will also contribute to the ongoing development of the digital platform and represent Better Stands in industry conversations and at key events.
Reflecting on the appointment, Roger Lehner said: “Better Stands has an important role to play in helping sustainability become more workable in day-to-day business. It represents the kind of progress our industry needs: practical, collaborative and rooted in real action, and that is a big part of what drew me to the role. I’m delighted to be joining at such a meaningful point in its development and look forward to working with members, partners and the wider industry to build on the momentum already behind the initiative.”
Ellen Osborne, Chairperson of the Better Stands Steering Committee, welcomed the appointment: “We are delighted to welcome Roger to Better Stands. He brings a strong understanding of the exhibition landscape, real sustainability insight and a clear appreciation of the role Better Stands can play in supporting positive change across the industry. He felt like a natural fit for this role.”
Gregor Bischkopf, Executive Director of IFES, adds: “Roger’s experience of this industry from the inside is incredibly valuable for an initiative like this. Better Stands needs someone who can build relationships, support growth and help shape meaningful progress. Roger brings exactly that, along with strong industry knowledge, a real commitment to sustainability and the ability to connect with stakeholders across the sector.”
This appointment comes at an important moment for Better Stands as the initiative continues to broaden its reach and deepen its industry partnerships. With Roger joining from 1 May, Better Stands takes another important step in strengthening its growth, partnerships and industry relevance.
