The International Association of Airport & Duty Free Stores (IAADFS) has announced that CEO Michael Payne will step back from his role after 24 years, while staying on as a “chief advisor” to the organisation’s board.
The global travel retail trade association’s chair, Rene Riedi, confirmed yesterday (11 August) that Payne will move away from day-to-day operations such as membership services and budgeting, but will retain responsibilities for “advocacy, governance and programme content”. Operational duties will sit under executive director Steven Antolick, who joined the board at the start of last year.
Payne (above), who has worked for Washington DC-headquartered IAADFS since 1991, said the decision follows discussions that began before the Covid pandemic. “It’s a perfect time for new leadership and new thinking,” he noted. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to stay involved but recognise it’s time to welcome a fresh approach.”
Global Drinks Intel has enquired about when the changes will take effect.
Antolick will oversee membership development, budgets and meeting requirements for IAADFS’s ‘Summit of the Americas’ trade show via the business’s management contract with Smithbucklin. Riedi said Antolick’s experience will be “extremely valuable” as the association moves forward.
The dates for IAADFS’ next Summit of the Americas will be announced later this month.
