The International Chess Federation (FIDE) announces the appointment of advisers and representatives of the President as part of the Federation’s new organisational structure, presented on 26 October 2026.
The FIDE President’s Office, headed by Adil Kozhikhov, will focus on implementing the Federation’s strategic priorities and strengthening international cooperation. Its responsibilities will also include working with partners and national chess federations, as well as coordinating specific projects and initiatives.
The following appointments will be made within the President’s Office, with each official responsible for specific areas of FIDE’s activities.
Special Representatives of the President
Emil Sutovsky – Chief Executive Adviser
He will be responsible for managing relations with FIDE’s key strategic partners, developing major partnership initiatives and facilitating cooperation on projects of particular importance to the Federation. He will also carry out specific assignments from the President.
Victor Bologan – Special Representative of the President for Global Development
His main responsibilities will include promoting chess development and strengthening relations with national chess federations, including matters related to the FIDE Development Fund. He will also be involved in major digitalisation projects aimed at modernising FIDE’s operations and services. Particular attention will be given to supporting federations and implementing chess development initiatives in different regions of the world.
Dana Reizniece – Special Representative of the President for Social Development
She will oversee FIDE’s social development agenda, including the design and implementation of social projects in cooperation with national federations and partners. Her work will focus on expanding access to chess and supporting initiatives that use chess as a tool for social inclusion and community development.
Representatives of the President
Mohamed Al-Mudahka – Representative for International Relations
He will contribute to strengthening FIDE’s international relations.
Akaki Iashvili – Representative for Special Projects
He will coordinate and implement special FIDE projects that require dedicated support and cooperation with members of the chess community.
Willy Iclicki – Representative for Chess Participation
He will focus on broadening participation in chess, with particular attention to amateur players, seniors and chess communities in Small Nations.
Zhu Chen – Head of FIDE Shenzhen Office
She will lead the FIDE Shenzhen Office and support the implementation of the Federation’s projects in the region.
A new stage of FIDE’s development
These appointments are part of the establishment of FIDE’s new management structure, designed to ensure a clearer distribution of responsibilities and more effective implementation of the Federation’s projects.
The new model envisages an active role for the President’s representatives in advancing FIDE’s priority areas, drawing on their professional experience and international networks.
FIDE believes that combining the experience of professionals who have worked in international chess for many years with new management approaches will help strengthen cooperation with national federations and partners around the world.