Atlanta, GA – [April 21, 2025] – The German American Chamber of Commerce of the Southern U.S. (GACC South) announces a significant leadership transition: After four years of visionary leadership, Crispin Teufel, CEO of National Seating & Mobility, is handing over the chairmanship to Dimitris Psillakis, President & CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA. 

Teufel has reached his full allowable tenure as Chairman and, in accordance with GACC South’s governance structure, was not eligible for reelection.  

This marks a pivotal moment for GACC South as it continues to strengthen transatlantic business ties, drive innovation, and foster economic growth in the southern U.S. 

A Legacy of Growth & Innovation 

Under Crispin Teufel’s tenure, GACC South has seen unprecedented expansion in membership, strategic partnerships, and cross-border business engagement. His leadership steered the Chamber through a dynamic economic landscape, reinforcing its role as the premier platform for German-American business collaboration. 

Teufel also played a key role in strengthening collaboration across all German American Chambers of Commerce (GACCs) in the U.S., fostering greater alignment and shared strategic initiatives nationwide. At the same time, he championed a more decentralized, regionally responsive structure within GACC South - empowering regional offices, deepening local engagement, and strengthening the Chamber’s presence across key business hubs in the Southern U.S. 

“As Chairman, it has been an honor to support the mission of GACC South and witness firsthand the incredible resilience and innovation within our transatlantic business community,” said Teufel. “I am confident that Dimitris Psillakis will bring new energy and strategic vision to further accelerate our momentum.” 

Dimitris Psillakis: Driving the Future of GACC South 

Bringing decades of leadership in the automotive industry, Dimitris Psillakis has served on the GACC South Board of Directors for the past three years and has been instrumental in shaping its future direction. Now, as Chairman, he is set to leverage his expertise in global business strategy, mobility innovation, and economic development to strengthen the Chamber’s mission. 

“I am honored to take on this role at such a critical time for transatlantic business,” said Psillakis. “The southern U.S. remains a key hub for German investment, and I look forward to driving initiatives that foster growth, sustainability, and technological advancement for our members and the broader business community.” 

A New Chapter for German-American Business in the South 

As GACC South continues to support German companies expanding in the U.S. and American firms entering the German market, this leadership change sets the stage for bold new initiatives in manufacturing, mobility, AI, sustainability, and workforce development. 

Join us in thanking Crispin Teufel for his outstanding leadership and welcoming Dimitris Psillakis as the new Chairman of GACC South! 

About GACC South 

Founded in 1978, the German American Chamber of Commerce of the Southern U.S. (GACC South) promotes bilateral trade and investment between Germany and the U.S. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, with a branch office in Houston, Texas, it serves eleven Southern states, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Bahamas. 

As one of the largest bi-national chambers in the U.S., GACC South is part of a global network of 150 German Chambers of Commerce Abroad across 93 countries. This international reach provides businesses with market insights, strategic connections, and growth opportunities. 

GACC South is more than a chamber—it’s a catalyst for transatlantic success.