Geneva, May 23 – Michael Payne, a globally respected figure in Olympic and sports marketing, has been named the new Chairman of Volleyball Worldthe 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 Strategiesthrough 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,

Transition in Leadership: Fernando Lima Steps Aside

Payne replaces Fernando Limawho 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,

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 kiranhis insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.