This is the jury of the German Brand Awards 2026

Until 27 February 2026, brand professionals can submit their entries for the German Brand Awards. After that, a jury will decide – more than ever before bringing together brand expertise, strategic depth and diverse perspectives.

The jury of the German Brand Awards 2026 is made up of leading figures from business, brand strategy, communication and the creative industries. Diversity was the top priority when assembling the jury: in terms of expertise, across generations and with regard to different career paths. The aim is to ensure a holistic, contemporary evaluation of the submitted projects that meets today’s requirements for successful brand management.

Some members of the 18-person expert group have been accompanying the German Brand Awards for several years. These include Dr Saskia Diehl, Roman Jud, Katrin Menne, Günter Moeller, Matthias Oetting, Stefan Raake, Prof. Dr Simone Roth and Christian Rummel. As decision-makers and opinion leaders in the world of branding, they have already assessed thousands of entries for us and know exactly what defines excellent brands.

The jury evaluates all projects based on a catalogue of criteria. These include, among others:

  • Brand positioning and strategy
  • Differentiation
  • Implementation

By continuously expanding the jury, the German Brand Awards ensure that new developments, social change and innovative approaches are reflected in the evaluation process.

“Since the founding of the Awards, I have been part of the jury, and it is important to me to stay at the pulse of the times and experience current developments in brand management first-hand. I am looking forward to discovering inspiring brand projects and discussing with my colleagues what makes brands relevant and future-proof today.” – Prof. Dr. Simone Roth

Experienced voices meet new perspectives

In line with the guiding principle “Brand Forward”, the composition of the jury in 2026 has been deliberately enriched with new impulses. Isabelle Rogat, Gabi Bauer, Julius Palm, Stefanie Eller, Jörg Liebeskind, Dr Christian Loefert, Carsta Maria Müller, Anne-Mette Noack and Sophia Rödiger and Björn Sievers. expand the panel with up-to-date market knowledge, digital expertise and sustainable visions. Their experience and fresh perspectives strengthen the German Brand Awards as an accolade for brand management that will remain relevant in the future.

“Not only major brands are assessed here, but also hidden champions and courageous newcomers. The jury’s work is based on a clear, professionally grounded evaluation framework – this gives the Award substance and credibility.” – Carsta Maria Müller

Jury session in the heart of Frankfurt

On 18 March 2026, all jury members will come together for the central session in the twin towers of Deutsche Bank in Frankfurt am Main. The intensive exchange about the submissions, different viewpoints and joint discussions are an integral part of the selection process – and a guarantee of the high quality and credibility of the German Brand Awards.

view the Jury