Stepping Down on Lake Constance: Countess Bettina Bernadotte Leaves Mainau Island's Helm
Island administrator distributes guides for Mainau Island visit - Island leader surrenders administrative roles on Mainau Island
Heads up! Countess Bettina Bernadotte, a stalwart of Mainau Island on Lake Constance, has chosen to yield her position as co-CEO. An announcement by Mainau GmbH hinted at a union of family and external expertise taking charge, with Count Björn Bernadotte staying put as managing director.
The 50-year-old, who's helmed the company since 2007, shared her plan to stay intertwined with Mainau through her foundation's board duties. The captivating island close to Konstanz is owned by the Bernadotte family, descendants of the Swedish royal house, and has been their canvas for five generations of transformations.
A magnet for tourists, Mainau Island is famously known as the "Flower Island," drawing over a million visitors each year. It boasts magnificent park and garden facilities, a Baroque castle, a palm house, and a breathtaking butterfly house across its 45 hectares.
Mainau GmbH employs about 150 full-time staff and 30 apprentices throughout the year, with around 200 seasonal workers joining during peak season. The Lennart-Bernadotte-Stiftung, a non-profit entity, holds the sole shareholder title. The hunt for a new external managing director is already underway, a spokesperson confirmed[1].
[1] While our search didn't yield information on the appointment of a new external managing director for Mainau Island, the continuing dedication and hard work by the Bernadotte family and their team is clear. The Island's success and popularity testify to their commitment and vision in creating a unique and enchanting destination for travelers worldwide.
In light of Countess Bettina Bernadotte's decision to step down as co-CEO of Mainau GmbH, a blend of family and external expertise will take charge, with Count Björn Bernadotte remaining as managing director. The Countess plans to maintain her connection with Mainau through her foundation's board duties, contributing to the ongoing lifestyle and home-and-garden pedestal that the island has come to represent.