Geneva, May 23 – Michael Payne, a globally respected figure in Olympic and sports marketing, has been named the new Chairman of Volleyball World, the commercial arm of the Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB). The announcement was made on Thursday by the international volleyball governing body, marking a strategic move to elevate the sport’s global profile.
More Than Two Decades in Olympic Marketing
The 67-year-old Payne brings extensive experience to his new role, having served as Director of Marketing and Global Broadcast Rights at the International Olympic Committee (IOC) from 1983 to 2004. During his tenure, Payne masterminded marketing strategies across 15 Olympic Games, revolutionizing the IOC’s commercial operations and global brand presence.
Advisor to Leading Global Sports Entities
After the 2004 Athens Olympics, Payne launched Payne Sports Media Strategies, through which he advised high-profile organizations such as Formula One, CVC Capital Partners, and FIVB itself. His consultancy focused on media rights, sponsorship development, and brand building—expertise now pivotal to Volleyball World’s growth plans.
Volleyball World’s Mission to Go Global
Established in 2021 under the FIVB, Volleyball World is tasked with the commercial operation of international indoor and beach volleyball events. Speaking on his appointment, Payne stated,
“Volleyball World has rapidly grown as a global entertainment product. I’m thrilled to be part of this journey and to contribute to marquee events like the Volleyball Nations League and the World Championships this summer.”
Transition in Leadership: Fernando Lima Steps Aside
Payne replaces Fernando Lima, who served as Volleyball World’s inaugural chairman. Lima will continue as a board member and assume a new leadership role within FIVB. Reflecting on his tenure, Lima said,
“I take pride in what we’ve achieved so far. With Michael’s vision and leadership, I’m confident we’ll accelerate our progress on the global stage.”
Strategic Momentum Ahead of Major Events
The leadership change comes at a pivotal moment as Volleyball World prepares for a packed calendar, including the 2025 Volleyball Nations League and several continental championships. Payne’s appointment is widely seen as a move to strengthen the sport’s commercial viability and audience engagement, particularly as volleyball eyes a larger share of the global sports and entertainment market.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.