Kongres Magazine and the Unicorn Awards have unveiled the inaugural Top 100 Event Agency Leaders ranking today, recognising the people spearheading Europe’s live experience industry. From 819 event agencies across 41 European markets, 100 leaders were selected. The entire list is available here.
The ranking is the first pan-European editorial ranking dedicated exclusively to the people leading Europe’s most influential event agencies. It reflects how live experiences have evolved far beyond logistics and production. They now play a central role in building brands, strengthening organisational culture, creating trust, driving business growth and shaping meaningful human connections in an increasingly digital world.
Generating 2.11 billion EUR per year
Together, the ranked agencies generate an estimated €2.11 billion in annual revenue and employ approximately 27,600 professionals, underscoring the economic significance of Europe’s event sector. This scale also helps frame the ranking’s focus on the people behind these agencies.
This ranking stands apart from popularity polls, relying on a clear and transparent editorial process. Leaders are evaluated across eight dimensions, from creativity and sustainability to influence and international reach. The resulting Power Index captures true industry impact, not just who is most visible.
“The European events industry has reached a level of maturity where it deserves to recognise not only the finest projects, but also the people who consistently make those projects possible. Our assessment comprised 819 agencies across 41 European markets, yet only 100 leaders crossed the threshold for inclusion. That alone demonstrates how complex and rigorous the methodology is. Behind these 100 leaders stand agencies that generate more than €2.11 billion in annual revenue and employ around 27,600 professionals. Our industry evidently creates not only memorable experiences, but also significant economic value,” commented Gorazd Čad, creator of the Top 100 Event Agency Leaders ranking.
A standout feature of this year’s ranking is its remarkable geographical diversity. Agencies from both established Western hubs and the dynamic New Europe region shine, proving that innovation and excellence now flourish across the entire continent. This diversity showcases the broad spectrum of leadership shaping the industry.
Who are the top three event industry leaders?
Here are the top-ranked visionaries who set the gold standard for European agency leadership.
1. Colja Dams from VOK DAMS received the highest overall Power Index score for outstanding leadership, sustained business performance and exceptional influence across the European live experience industry.
2. Arne Koefoed from WINK Netherlands is recognised for combining creative excellence with international growth and a consistent track record of delivering industry-leading experiences.
3. Patrick Roubroeks from Dutch agency XSAGA completes this year’s podium, reflecting remarkable entrepreneurial vision, strategic leadership and lasting contribution to the development of Europe’s event industry.
This list highlights the rising professionalism of Europe’s live experience sector and attests that agencies are truly shaped by the leaders at their helm. It brings the ranking’s insights into sharp focus.
The Top 100 Event Agency Leaders 2026 ranking is now available on the Unicorn Awards website, together with detailed leader profiles and the full editorial methodology. Find out more here.
