One of Britain’s leading sports communications executives, Mike Lee OBE, has died aged 61 after suffering a heart attack.
Widely renowned as an expert in campaigning strategy, Lee established the leading public relations firm Vero Communications in 2006, shortly after being part of London’s winning bid for the 2012 Olympics. He also played a key role in Rio’s successful bid to host the 2016 Games, as well as helping Qatar secure a shock victory to host the 2022 football World Cup.
Among his many roles in sport, Lee was a former director of communications and public affairs for Uefa and media and political strategist for the Premier League. He also ran the International Rugby Board’s successful campaign for rugby sevens’ inclusion in the Olympics.
Lee, who was married to the former Millwall chairman and FA non-executive director Heather Rabbatts, died on Saturday. He had played a quieter role in Vero Communications over the past year, reportedly to pursue other interests in his life including studying for a master’s degree and spending more time cycling.
A statement from the company read: “Thanks to the legacy of Mike, and the strength of the senior team that has been at the core of the business over the past decade, Vero is well positioned for the future, with clients across the world of sport.”
The Vero director John Zerafa said: “He was a force in communications – always inspiring, challenging and innovative and leaves an indelible legacy in the world of sport. He will be deeply missed by all those who have worked with him, and been advised by him. On behalf of the entire Vero team, our thoughts are with Mike’s wife Heather, his son Alex and stepson Euan.”
