George Yiapanas

George Yiapanas [Ph.D.], is a distinguished professional in the field of sports management, combining extensive industry experience with a strong academic background. Holding a doctorate in Sports Management, an MA in Management, an AAT in Accounting, and certificates in Football Management, Security Management, and Good Governance in Sport, he has built a career that bridges finance, academia, and sports governance. With over two decades of experience in the sports industry, he currently serves as the Finance Manager at GSP Stadium and Sports Centre in Nicosia, demonstrating exceptional leadership in financial planning, risk analysis, and strategic business development. Beyond finance, he has played pivotal roles in media operations, safety management, and event planning.

In addition to his managerial role, he is an Adjunct Faculty at the University of Nicosia, teaching Sports Strategic Management and Sports Marketing, and a Research Fellow at GNOSIS Mediterranean Institute for Management Science, engaging in European funded research projects related to sports. His research interests span sports governance, strategic management in sports, and sustainability, contributing to numerous peer-reviewed journals, book chapters, and conference proceedings.

He is also deeply involved in professional organizations, serving as a Board Member of the Cyprus Association for Sport Management [CyASM], a Fellow Member of the EuroMed Research Business Institute [EMRBI], and a Founding Member of the Cyprus Academy of Marketing [CAM]. Due to his wide professional and social contribution to sports and his expertise in the field, he has served as a member of the Parallel Parliament of Cyprus through direct appointment by the President of the House of Representatives. He also served as President of the Cyprus Squash Association.

A sought-after speaker, he has delivered keynote addresses and lectures at international conferences, podcasts, and media outlets, covering various sports management and strategic planning topics. His publications and editorial roles in prestigious journals underscore his influence in the academic and sports management communities. Combining analytical rigour with practical insights, he is a versatile leader dedicated to advancing sports management through education, research, and industry collaboration. His multifaceted career exemplifies excellence in bridging theory and practice to drive positive change in the sports ecosystem.