Citing Commercial Strategy, IAAF CEO Olivier Gers Resigns
Citing Commercial Strategy, IAAF CEO Olivier Gers Resigns
IAAF CEO Olivier Gers announced his resignation on Monday citing the organization's commercial strategy.

The IAAF announced on Monday that Olivier Gers has resigned as CEO. Gers joined the organization in October of 2016.
“Whilst I am sorry to be leaving, the preexisting commercial framework makes it difficult for me to apply my talents and fully leverage the assets of the IAAF in the way I would like," Gers said in a press release. "Given my stance, I have resigned so the IAAF can pursue a different commercial strategy for the sport."
IAAF President Sebastian Coe cited lauded the contributions Gers made during his 18 months with the IAAF.
“I would like to thank Olivier for the work he has done particularly around putting a strong team in place at the IAAF, developing a strategic plan and securing broadcast and digital rights to expand audiences for Athletics globally," Coe said. "Coming off the best world championships we have ever had, having established a set of reforms that solidly underpins the governance of the sport and having established a solid foundation for growth, we will move forward with the innovation that will bring in new fans and new partners.”
Gers will remain as CEO for three months while the IAAF looks for a replacement.