From May 2026 onwards, Frederik Hammes will take on the role of Managing Director at game event, succeeding Stephan Reichart, who has chosen to step down. Hammes has over 20 years' experience in the industry, including a long-standing tenure as Managing Director at Travian Games.
To ensure a smooth transition, Reichart will support the new Managing Director until the conclusion of gamescom dev in August 2026. Europe's largest developer conference, formerly known as devcom, will be held under its new name for the first time this year. In addition to gamescom dev, game events organises a range of industry events, including the German Computer Game Awards. The company is a subsidiary of game - the German Games Industry Association.
"Stephan Reichart is a distinguished veteran of the German games industry whose passion and commitment have left a lasting mark. Over several decades, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the conference landscape, first through his own event companies and later as Managing Director of game events GmbH. Under his leadership, gamescom dev has evolved into a premier event for game developers. His extensive network, keen sense for innovative formats, and personal dedication have been instrumental in establishing game events GmbH in its current position. On behalf of the association, I would like to express our sincere thanks for his outstanding contributions," says Felix Falk, Managing Director - game.
"It has been both an honour and a privilege to contribute to the development of devcom - now gamescom dev - since 2017, and to build and lead the exceptional team at game events GmbH since 2019. Together with our association and Koelnmesse, we have successfully navigated unprecedented challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. I am deeply grateful for the continued trust and support of our shareholders throughout this journey. Further advancing the German Computer Game Awards and shaping gamescom dev alongside such a dedicated team has been immensely rewarding. Both events are now ideally positioned for continued success under Frederik’s leadership, whom I hold in the highest regard both professionally and personally. From October, I will be turning my attention to new projects, which I greatly look forward to. I remain sincerely appreciative of the many valued collaborations over the years and wish all my colleagues continued success in the future," Stephan Reichart, outgoing Managing Director of game events GmbH. He has been Managing Director of devcom/gamescom dev at game events since January 2019.
"This year, gamescom dev is launching in a new format, featuring a fresh name and an even closer integration with gamescom, the world’s largest gaming event. Following strong growth in recent years, the time is right to take the conference to the next level and further elevate its international profile. At a time when developer conferences worldwide are undergoing significant transformation, this presents a unique opportunity to set new standards through clear focus and renewed momentum. I very much look forward to shaping this next phase together with the team," says Frederik Hammes, Managing Director-designate of game events GmbH.
