New WorldSkills Board members elected

WorldSkills General Assembly 2025 opened in Dubrovnik with the election of new members to the WorldSkills Board. Delegates voted to fill three positions. Alexander Erdmann of Germany was re-elected as Treasurer, Patrik Svensson of Sweden was elected as Board member – Competitions, and Donald Tong of Hong Kong was elected as Board member – Strategic Development.

This year’s election included only one position for the Strategic Development Committee, following the General Assembly’s decision to support the Board’s proposal that Alejandro Weinstein’s first term be five years, rather than one year.

Erdmann, who joined the Board in 2023, has helped strengthen WorldSkills financial governance and contributed to the organization’s long-term strategic direction. His re-election ensures continuity and stability as WorldSkills continues to expand its global reach and partnerships.

Svensson brings extensive international experience in the leadership and development of skills competitions. He currently serves as Technical Delegate for Sweden to WorldSkills International and as a Board Member of WorldSkills Europe. He has held key roles including Competitions Committee Delegate Lead, Chair of the Competitions Committee for WorldSkills Europe, and Competitions Manager for WorldSkills Sweden.

A former officer in the Swedish Armed Forces, Svensson credits his background in leadership and teamwork for shaping his fair, transparent, and collaborative approach. With his proven management skills and long-standing commitment to continuous improvement, he aims to support the ongoing success and integrity of WorldSkills Competitions worldwide.

In his candidate presentation, Patrik said, “I want to help create a unique experience for young people, ensure a transparent and fair Competition, and champion the needs of governments and industries. Ultimately, I want to ensure we make each WorldSkills Competition better than the last one.”

Donald Tong has been the Official Delegate of WorldSkills Hong Kong since 2023. He has led national and regional competitions, including the Hong Kong JuniorSkills Competition, and supported WorldSkills Vision 2035 discussions held in Hong Kong.

His work has strengthened youth engagement, regional collaboration, and the promotion of TVET across the Member region. With more than three decades in senior public service, including leadership in labour, infrastructure, and international relations, he contributes a wealth of experience in strategic development and global cooperation.

During his candidate speech, Tong outlined his attributes, saying, “I am willing to listen and always try to bring consensus among diverse stakeholders. I hope to promote cross-sector collaboration to ensure WorldSkills remains a platform for innovation in skills policy, employer engagement, and workforce resilience.”

Comprising eight members, the WorldSkills Board provides governance, guidance, and continuity to the organization. In addition to the Treasurer, there are two Board members responsible for the Competitions Committee leadership, and four members responsible for the Strategic Development Committee leadership. The WorldSkills Board is led by Francis Hourant, elected as President and Chair of the Board in 2024.

Learn more about the WorldSkills Board and their responsibilities.