Editorial Leadership History: Past Editors-in-Chief
The leadership of a publication is defined by the vision and guidance of its editor-in-chief—the individual responsible for the overall editorial direction, quality control, and strategic management of the content. Over the decades, this role has been held by a diverse group of professionals who have shaped the publication's trajectory.
From its early years in the mid-1980s to the present day, the succession of editors reflects a commitment to continuity and evolving expertise. Each tenure represents a specific era of growth and academic or professional oversight.
Key Facts
- The editorial lineage dates back to 1984.
- Koen Pauwels is the current editor-in-chief, starting in 2025.
- Some periods featured joint leadership, such as the tenures of Stefan Stremersch and Donald R. Lehmann (2006–2009).
- The longest single tenure recorded was held by Hubert Gatignon, serving for five years.
Chronological Timeline of Leadership
The transition of leadership began with Berend Wierenga, who served from 1984 to 1986. The subsequent years saw a steady rotation of editors, including Gilles Laurent and Piet Vanden Abeele, who guided the publication through the late 80s and early 90s.
As the publication entered the 21st century, leadership shifted through Hubert Gatignon and a period of co-editorship involving Stefan Stremersch and Donald R. Lehmann. This collaborative approach continued later with Jacob Goldenberg and Eitan Muller.
In recent years, the role has been held by Roland Rust, P.K. Kannan, and Martin Schreier, leading up to the current appointment of Koen Pauwels.
| Editor-in-Chief | Tenure Period |
|---|---|
| Berend Wierenga | 1984–1986 |
| Gilles Laurent | 1987–1989 |
| Piet Vanden Abeele | 1990–1994 |
| John Saunders | 1995–1997 |
| Jan-Benedict Steenkamp | 1998–2000 |
| Hubert Gatignon | 2001–2006 |
| Stefan Stremersch | 2006–2009 |
| Donald R. Lehmann | 2006–2009 |
| Marnik Dekimpe | 2009–2012 |
| Jacob Goldenberg | 2012–2015 |
| Eitan Muller | 2012–2015 |
| Roland Rust | 2015–2018 |
| P.K. Kannan | 2018–2021 |
| Martin Schreier | 2021–2024 |
| Koen Pauwels | 2025–Present |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the current editor-in-chief?
The current editor-in-chief is Koen Pauwels, who assumed the role in 2025.
Who was the first person to hold this position?
Berend Wierenga was the first editor-in-chief, serving from 1984 to 1986.
Have there ever been multiple editors-in-chief at once?
Yes, there have been periods of joint leadership. For example, Stefan Stremersch and Donald R. Lehmann served together from 2006 to 2009, and Jacob Goldenberg and Eitan Muller served together from 2012 to 2015.
How long did Hubert Gatignon serve as editor-in-chief?
Hubert Gatignon served as editor-in-chief from 2001 to 2006.
Who preceded the current editor-in-chief?
Martin Schreier served as the editor-in-chief from 2021 to 2024, immediately preceding Koen Pauwels.