AmCham Germany proudly welcomed the new 2026/2027 NextGen cohort, bringing together 26 young professionals from across its membership for a year-long journey of leadership development, professional exchange, and transatlantic engagement. The Kick-Off Conference at Lufthansa Seeheim marked the beginning of the program and provided participants with the opportunity to build new connections, gain fresh perspectives, and engage with leaders from across the transatlantic business community.
The conference began at Lufthansa Seeheim, where participants met their fellow cohort members and learned more about the opportunities and experiences awaiting them throughout the year. The opening evening featured an exchange with Prof. Dr. h.c. mult. Roland Koch, Member of the Board of Directors of AmCham Germany and former Minister President of Hesse, who reflected on current developments shaping the transatlantic partnership and shared lessons from his distinguished career in politics and business.
Over the following days, participants gained a deeper understanding of AmCham Germany and its role within the transatlantic business community. Daniel Andrich, General Manager, AmCham Germany, and Thomas Henneberg, Head of Department, Strategic Partnerships, Regional Coordination & Events, AmCham Germany, introduced the Chamber’s mission, priorities, and broad range of initiatives. Drawing from their own NextGen experiences, Shelley Cantrick of Deutsche Bank, Sebastian Hierl of Miller & Meier Consulting, and Franziska Kutsche of EY, offered practical guidance and personal perspectives on making the most of the program year and remaining engaged beyond it.
The cohort also connected virtually with Christopher F. Porter, President, AmCham Germany, and Managing Director and Regional Executive, BNY, who provided insights into AmCham Germany, transatlantic relations, and leadership. An evening discussion with Astrid Teckentrup, Vice President, AmCham Germany, and Senior Vice President, Procter & Gamble DACH, highlighted the importance of collaboration, curiosity, and active engagement within the transatlantic community.
From Seeheim, the group traveled to Frankfurt for a day of exchanges with AmCham Germany partners and member companies. The program began at the U.S. Consulate General Frankfurt, where Consul General Brian Heath welcomed the cohort and discussed the close relationship between Germany and the United States. Participants then visited Lufthansa Hangar One, where Kay Wichmann, Head of Regional Sales, Lufthansa, shared insights into the company’s operations and international strategy.
The afternoon continued at KION Group, where Tobias Greven, Group General Counsel & Chief Compliance Officer, provided perspectives on global logistics, artificial intelligence, and regulatory developments. The day concluded with an Exchange & Networking Reception at FTI Consulting, featuring Payne Griffin, Senior Director and former Deputy Chief of Staff to U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, who shared insights on public affairs and current transatlantic dynamics.
Back at Lufthansa Seeheim, the final conference sessions focused on the broader political and business environment shaping the transatlantic relationship. Dr. Tobias Endler provided an overview of current political developments and their impact on business decision-making, while David Knower, Vice President, AmCham Germany, Regional Chapter Chair Rhine-Main, and Partner & General Manager, Cerberus Deutschland Beteiligungsberatung GmbH, highlighted the many opportunities for engagement within AmCham Germany’s network. An interactive team workshop encouraged participants to collaborate, strengthen their connections, and tackle challenges through creative problem-solving.
The conference concluded with an exchange featuring Jenny Leonard, Bloomberg News, who shared her perspectives on developments across the Atlantic and insights from her work as a White House correspondent.
The 2026 NextGen Kick-Off Conference successfully brought together emerging leaders and experienced experts from business, government, and media for several days of dialogue, learning, and networking. AmCham Germany extends its sincere thanks to all speakers, contributors, and hosts for sharing their time and expertise. We are especially grateful to Lufthansa and the Lufthansa Seeheim Conference Center for their support and hospitality.
With new connections forged, perspectives shared, and a strong foundation established, the 2026/2027 cohort begins its NextGen journey equipped to actively engage with and contribute to the transatlantic business community.
