MMTC Leadership at the Forefront of Media Research: Leona Achtenhagen Appointed President of EMMA

We are proud to announce that Professor Leona Achtenhagen, Director of MMTC, has been appointed President of the European Media Management Association (EMMA)—a key academic organization advancing international research and education in media management.

EMMA External link, opens in new window. is a prominent international association connecting scholars, educators, and professionals working at the intersection of media, business, and innovation. It promotes collaborative research and education in the dynamic field of media management.

In her new role, Professor Achtenhagen will lead the strategic direction of the association, foster international collaboration, and continue building a strong scholarly community dedicated to understanding the transformation of media industries and organizations. This appointment is a recognition of both Leona’s scholarly leadership and MMTC’s longstanding contribution to interdisciplinary media research. MMTC has been a pioneer in studying how media systems evolve under the pressures of digitalization, market transformation, and societal change.

Under Leona's leadership, MMTC continues to explore the intersection of media, business, and governance—asking questions about influence, legitimacy, and innovation in today’s complex media landscape.

Additionally, Dinara Tokbaeva, MMTC member and Assistant Professor at Jönköping International Business School, has been appointed to the EMMA Board with responsibility for communications. Her expertise will support the association’s efforts to connect more effectively with researchers, practitioners, and the broader public.

These new roles strengthen MMTC’s international engagement and highlight our ongoing commitment to shaping the future of media research—locally and globally.