The International Association of Airport and Duty Free Stores (IAADFS) has announced that Michael Payne will step back from his role as president and CEO, while continuing to serve as chief advisor to the board. Current IAADFS executive director Steven Antolick will continue to manage the organization’s operations during the transition.
“Michael will continue to serve as a chief advisor to the board on matters relating to advocacy, governance and program content, but will continue to move away from the day-to-day operational activities dealing with membership services, budget items and related areas,” said chairman Rene Riedi. “As we go through some of our scheduled strategic changes and redefining our scope as an organization, we want to be able to take advantage of his knowledge and relationships and are pleased to have his continued involvement and support. We plan to have Michael actively participating in Cannes to focus on his areas of responsibility and helping to promote the next summit.”
“I feel this is a really good solution as we go through this transition period,” added Payne. “This conversation started back before COVID, which of course changed everything, and it clearly wasn’t a good time to make any major staff adjustments. We now have an energized board with a number of new members from both the supplier and operator side who have an appreciation and understanding of what changes need to be made to better serve our members and reflect the rapidly changing nature of our industry. It’s a perfect time for new leadership and new thinking. I’m grateful for the opportunity to stay involved but recognize it’s time to welcome a fresh approach.”
