Dr Matthias Rauch is a leading expert in cultural innovation and urban development, currently serving as Head of the Creative Economy Cluster for the City of Mannheim. Since 2024, he has also acted as the city’s Focal Point for the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.
A pioneer in urban night-time governance, Dr Rauch conceptualised and initiated Germany’s first Night Mayor position. His previous roles include Head of Cultural Innovation at NEXT Mannheim and Vice Chairman of the Association for Music Business and Music Culture Research (GMM e.V.). Dr Rauch holds a PhD from the University of Mannheim and is a sought-after keynote speaker on the creative industries, night culture, and the intersection of creativity and urban innovation.