But it's not just the large and particularly visible events. New content, formats and groups are also emerging on a smaller scale. For example, members have developed and launched new seminars, training courses and classes, while others have produced publications, podcasts and tech talks. Or someone has taken the initiative and founded a new specialist group or revived one that had fallen into decline. Sometimes in larger groups, sometimes by a handful of active members who feel particularly connected to a topic and have invested many hours of work to share their knowledge with others, organise something and get others involved. All these activities (and much more) can be seen throughout the professional association, and it is impressive to experience such a vibrant community in action.
At the same time, our chapter is growing steadily and has now significantly exceeded the 4,000-member mark. This growth would not be possible without the voluntary commitment of many people. Therefore, a very special thank you to all those who contribute to our success with their commitment, knowledge and time!
We are confident that this trend will continue in 2026 and are very excited about our members' writing, organising and discussing activities, as well as our meetings – whatever form they may take.
There have been a number of changes on the board in the year that is coming to an end. Our president, Dr Tim Sattler, has been a member of ISACA's Board of Directors since the summer and is therefore no longer able to serve on the board of the Germany Chapter. Matthias Kraft has stepped down after many years as board member for specialist groups. We would like to thank them for their years of collegial cooperation and their services to the further development of the association!
For some time, Julia Hermann had taken on the role of interim association president in addition to her board position in communications and marketing. Following her reorientation in November, Markus Gaulke, a long-standing board member for continuing education, will take her place as interim association president and will lead the association and the board in this position until the next general meeting.
Of course, these personnel changes are a challenge – but they are also a great opportunity because, fortunately – and this again speaks in favour of our association – there are members who thankfully offer their support and would possibly make wonderful successors!
This means that in 2026, changes will continue in the Executive Board and in the Chapter, and it will be important to focus on what will advance the association and what the Executive Board can do for its members.
Keeping the above quote in mind will certainly not hurt. Incidentally, it goes even further: ‘Be human. Be reasonable.’ And anyone who knows Margot Friedländer and her life story a little knows that her words have a particular political and social dimension and are meant both as a warning and as a call to action. This can set a direction – for 2026, a new year in the professional association, and one can also wish for it for the political climate and social cohesion.
In the Chapter, we have worked hard in this spirit and can look back with joy and pride on a great year and on what we have achieved and accomplished together!
We would like to thank you very much for your support and commitment! We wish you and your loved ones a peaceful Christmas and a healthy, happy and successful New Year 2026! May it be a year full of success and new insights!
