Germany-based PCO (professional conference organiser) VOK DAMS has appointed Dr Anja Schmidt-Ott to lead its expanding “change communication” practice. Schmidt-Ott brings expertise in helping organisations navigate major changes through targeted events and communication strategies.
Companies today face complex transformations, from mergers to leadership changes and general restructuring. VOK DAMS aims to use events to make these changes tangible for employees and stakeholders.
The agency designs interactive workshops, employee events and transformation forums. These formats are designed to help people understand strategic goals rather than simply receive instructions from management.
“We create event guidelines, communication concepts and digital platforms that foster participation and embed transformation within organisations,” the company said.
VOK DAMS runs leadership workshops and change training programmes to help executives in their push to transform their companies. The agency believes leaders play a crucial role in translating strategy into action and shaping company culture. Interactive roadshows and company-wide forums give leaders platforms to communicate change effectively across their organisations.
How to get employees participating?
“Change requires clear communication, real experiences and a shared understanding of why it matters,” says Dr Anja Schmidt-Ott. “We design formats that invite participation – that encourage people to think along, speak up and get involved. That’s how transformation becomes a shared journey rather than a top-down directive.”
“Dr Anja Schmidt-Ott brings exactly the expertise our clients need today,” says Colja M. Dams, co-chief executive of VOK DAMS. “She approaches transformation holistically – from strategic intent and cultural context to meaningful, experience-driven implementation. The results: formats that convey purpose, make change tangible, and truly resonate with people.”
Claudia Köhler-Dams, co-chief executive, adds: “The demand for effective change communication is growing rapidly. Companies aren’t looking for rigid models – they need formats that make transformation real and impactful.
“What sets us apart: we don’t design in isolation, but … in shared experiences. Anja Schmidt-Ott brings years of expertise in both change and live communication – and a well-developed instinct for the dynamics within organisations. A true asset for us and our clients.”
