Dr. Florian Kaefer

Dr. Florian Kaefer is the founder and publisher of The Place Brand Observer, the leading global platform for insights, research, and expert perspectives on place branding, destination marketing, and reputation management. With a background in communication, sustainability, and tourism, Florian has become a central voice in the global place branding community—highlighting best practices and promoting dialogue on how places can develop with purpose and integrity.

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At PLACExNordic, Florian will host the Impact Story Awards, an initiative created to celebrate inspiring, values-driven stories of place branding that create tangible, positive change for people and communities. The awards recognize projects that go beyond image-making to deliver long-term impact—whether through inclusion, innovation, sustainability, or identity-building.

Following the award ceremony, Florian will lead a panel discussion with award winners, exploring what makes a place brand truly meaningful—and how storytelling can serve as a powerful force for transformation.

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