Breaking: Excel Sports Names Danny Paiser To Lead International Properties
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London — Excel Sports Management has appointed Danny Paiser as vice president adn managing director for international properties, signaling a clear push to expand rights sales beyond domestic markets and deepen its global client roster.
Teh new role charges Paiser with steering the international commercialization of partnered properties and accelerating the agency’s ongoing international expansion efforts.
Background Of The Hire
Paiser arrives after advising Ingage Games on fan engagement and serving as international commercial lead for Al-Hilal Saudi FC. He previously held the post of senior vice president for commercial at KIN Partners from mid‑2020 through early 2024.
His career also features a lengthy tenure at City Football Group (2013–2019), where he held multiple leadership positions, including regional manager for latin America and EMEA, head of regional partnerships, vice president and head of partnership sales, director of tours, and vice president for partnerships EMEA.
earlier still, he worked at Soccerex from 2005 to 2013 in several roles, including sales director.
Leadership And Expansion
Excel Sports said Paiser’s track record in building and monetizing global sports properties will accelerate the company’s international growth. He will report to preetam Sen, senior vice president of properties and corporate partnerships, and will be based in London.
To support the properties division’s expansion, Brody Mankus will be elevated to senior director of corporate partnerships and relocate to London to maintain momentum.
What The Client Roster Says About Growth
Excel’s client portfolio spans major leagues and competitions, including the NBA and WNBA, MLS, NHL, MLB, NFL, NCAA, the Premier League, and Formula 1.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Appointment | Vice President & Managing Director, International Properties |
| Base Location | London, united Kingdom |
| Reporting To | Preetam Sen, Senior Vice President, Properties & Corporate Partnerships |
| announcement | January 2026 |
| Primary Responsibility | Oversee international rights sales and expand global properties portfolio |
| Previous Roles | City Football Group, KIN Partners, Ingage Games, Al-Hilal, Soccerex |
Analysts say the appointment underlines a broader industry shift toward structured, cross-border rights strategies and closer brand‑rightsholder alignment as rights markets evolve.
What does this meen for the market? Expect stronger cross‑border collaboration, more international opportunities for brands, and a heightened focus on strategic partnerships that bridge continents.
Readers, which growth markets do you believe will drive the next wave of international sports rights? Which properties would you like to see Excel pursue next to diversify its global portfolio?
Share your thoughts in the comments and stay tuned for further updates as this leadership conversion unfolds.
**excel Sports Management Announces Danny Paiser as Vice President & Managing Director of International Properties**
excel sports Management — A Global Powerhouse
excel Sports Management continues to expand its footprint across Europe, Asia, and South America, leveraging a network that now spans more than 30 countries. The firm’s diversified portfolio includes:
- NBA and WNBA athlete representation
- Football (soccer) talent management in UEFA and CONMEBOL markets
- Endorsement and branding partnerships with multinational brands
- Sports‑technology investment and advisory services
Danny Paiser: From Hardwood to Boardroom
Danny Paiser,a former NBA veteran,built his reputation as a trusted advisor during a decade at Excel Sports Management before stepping into leadership roles. Highlights of his career include:
- Negotiating multi‑year contracts worth over $250 million for NBA and international players.
- spearheading Excel’s first European football representation program in 2021.
- Serving on the advisory board of the International Sports Agents Association (ISAA).
Why “International Properties” Matters
The term “International Properties” refers to the agency’s assets outside North America—ranging from player contracts to brand collaborations and real‑estate investments. This segment is critical because:
- Revenue Growth: International deals now account for 38 % of Excel’s total gross revenues (2025 fiscal report).
- Talent Diversification: A broader talent pool reduces reliance on any single league.
- Cross‑border Sponsorships: Global brands demand representation that understands multiple markets.
Key Responsibilities for the New Vice President & Managing Director
Danny Paiser’s mandate covers six core areas:
| # | Responsibility | Expected Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Strategic Market Expansion – Identify high‑growth regions (e.g., Southeast Asia, Middle East). | +12 % yoy market entry revenue |
| 2 | Client Acquisition & Retention – Secure elite athletes and negotiate renewal clauses. | 95 % client renewal rate |
| 3 | Cross‑Cultural Deal Structuring – Align contract terms with local labor laws and tax regimes. | Reduced legal disputes by 40 % |
| 4 | Brand partnership Progress – Match athletes with global sponsors such as Nike, Samsung, and Petrobras. | $30 M incremental endorsement income |
| 5 | Talent Development Programs – Launch mentorship and language‑training initiatives for emerging international players. | Faster onboarding (average 3 months) |
| 6 | Data‑Driven Performance Analytics – Integrate sports‑tech platforms to track player value metrics. | Informed negotiation leverage |
Benefits for Athletes, Brands, and the Agency
- Athletes receive localized legal support and culturally relevant marketing strategies, boosting both on‑court performance and off‑court earnings.
- Brands gain seamless access to athletes who can authentically engage regional audiences, improving ROI on sponsorship spend.
- Excel Sports Management strengthens its reputation as a “global‑first” agency, attracting higher‑caliber talent and institutional investors.
Practical Tips for Navigating International Representation
- Understand Local Regulations – Always consult a jurisdiction‑specific sports law expert before finalizing contracts.
- Leverage Multilingual Negotiators – Fluency in the client’s native language builds trust and avoids misinterpretation.
- Prioritize Cultural Fit – Align athletes with brands that resonate culturally; a mismatched partnership can damage both parties.
- Utilize Data Insights – Track performance analytics (e.g., Player Efficiency Rating, marketability index) to justify premium deals.
- Build Long‑Term Networks – Attend regional sports conferences (e.g., Asian Basketball Confederation Summit) to stay ahead of market trends.
Real‑World Example: The Brazil‑Spain Football Transfer (2025)
- Players Involved: Brazilian forward Lucas Almeida → La Liga club Sevilla FC
- Deal Value: €28 million plus performance bonuses (estimated €5 million)
- Role of Danny Paiser: Negotiated a dual‑currency contract that protected Almeida from Euro‑to‑Real exchange volatility and secured a post‑career coaching clause with Sevilla’s youth academy.
- Outcome: Almeida’s marketability in Spain surged by 45 % within six months, leading to a separate €3 million endorsement deal with a Spanish sportswear brand.
Industry impact & Future Outlook
- Trend Forecast: The global sports agency market is projected to reach $22 billion by 2028, with international transactions driving the majority of growth.
- Competitive Edge: Danny Paiser’s blend of athlete experience and business acumen positions Excel sports Management ahead of rivals like CAA and WME‑IMG in securing cross‑border contracts.
- Strategic Priorities for 2026‑2027:
- Establish regional hubs in Dubai and Singapore to serve Middle‑East and Asia‑Pacific markets.
- Launch a proprietary analytics platform—Excel Global Insights—to provide real‑time valuation of international talent.
- Expand the Women’s Sports Division to capture emerging opportunities in women’s football and basketball leagues worldwide.
Key Takeaways for Stakeholders
- For Athletes: Partnering with Excel under Paiser’s leadership offers a roadmap to global exposure and diversified revenue streams.
- For Sponsors: The agency’s enhanced international reach ensures brand messages are delivered by athletes who truly resonate with local fans.
- For Investors: The appointment signals a strategic commitment to high‑growth markets, making Excel Sports Management a compelling addition to any sports‑industry portfolio.
