Daniele Sano will become the ATP's chief business officer from December ©ATP

The Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) has announced the appointment of Daniele Sano as its chief business officer from December 1.

The Italian will oversee all commercial partnerships, global sales, marketing, public relations and business development operations for the ATP.

The 44-year-old has a wealth of experience across media sales, sports marketing and business development.

Sano’s previous positions include senior management and advisory roles with top properties in different sports, including football club AS Roma, the Superbike World Championship and sports marketing agency WWP Group.

He has overseen areas such as sponsorship acquisition and activation, strategy development and implementation.

The Association of Tennis Professionals will boost the commercial activity around stars such as Novak Djokovic by appointing Daniele Sano as chief business officer ©Getty Images
The Association of Tennis Professionals will boost the commercial activity around stars such as Novak Djokovic by appointing Daniele Sano as chief business officer ©Getty Images

Sano said: "The ATP is one of the most exciting sports properties in the world, and one with very promising business upside.

"Having been involved in sport my entire career, and as a lifelong sports fan, I look forward to bringing my experience and industry knowledge into this new role."

Massimo Calvelli, the ATP chief executive, said: "On behalf of the ATP, I am delighted to welcome Daniele to the team.

"His considerable experience from brand, rights-holder and agency perspectives, including negotiating major strategic partnerships and sponsorship deals, will be a big asset.

"His impressive credentials and guidance of vital functions at ATP will be instrumental in maximising the ATP’s business potential in years ahead."

Sano will be based at ATP’s office in London and report to Calvelli.