Harald Pechlaner

Prof. Dr. Harald Pechlaner is a leading academic in tourism and entrepreneurship, serving as the Founding Chair of the University of Transformation and Sustainability at the Catholic University of Eichstätt-Ingolstadt (since 2003). He is also Scientific Director of the Competence Center Green Transformation of Tourism (2024–present) and Adjunct Research Professor at Curtin University (since 2014).

Research Focus: His work bridges destination development, regional innovation, and entrepreneurial ecosystems, with a strong emphasis on sustainability governance and resilient tourism practices. Recent publications explore climate policy integration, design thinking for destinations, and sustainable tourism observatories, reflecting his commitment to systemic solutions.

Scientific Awards:

• Honorary Doctorate, Matej Bel University (2021)
• Member, European Academy of Sciences and Arts (2018–present)

Academic Leadership: As President of the International Association of Scientific Experts in Tourism (AIEST, 2014–2024) and Dean of KU’s Faculty of Mathematics and Geography (2011–2013), he has shaped global tourism discourse. He also co-founded the KU School of Transformation and Sustainability (2023).