Roy Hessing Steps into the Role of MWU CEO

Maccabi World Union enters a new chapter with the appointment of Roy Hessing as CEO, alongside several additional leadership appointments across the movement worldwide - marking a moment of growth, renewal, and strengthened partnership. 

A former member of Israel’s national water polo team and a lifelong sportsman, Hessing joined Maccabi World Union in 2011 as Sports Director of the Maccabiah Games, later becoming MWU’s Deputy CEO for Sports. For the past eight years, he has served as CEO of the Maccabiah – a role he will continue to hold alongside his new appointment. 

Roy succeeds Amir Gissin, whose dedicated leadership over the past three years made a meaningful contribution to the movement’s development. In his new role, Roy will continue advancing MWU's central missions: strengthening the bond between the Jewish Diaspora and the State of Israel; promoting Jewish identity, Zionism, and mutual responsibility; and empowering communities through sport, education, technology, and a healthy lifestyle. 

"Roy Hessing’s appointment is a natural continuation of his professional growth after many years of dedicated work", said Amir Peled, Chairman of Maccabi World Union. "Over the past 14 years, Hessing has led major achievements for Maccabi, including hosting U.S. President Joe Biden during the 2022 Maccabiah Games. I am confident that as CEO, he will continue to lead us forward. This is also an opportunity to thank Amir Gissin for his devoted service and meaningful contribution".

Just days after his appointment, Roy traveled to the United States to meet with Maccabi communities, partners, and supporters – reinforcing MWU's commitment to building strong and meaningful connections across the Jewish world.

 During his visit, Roy also accompanied Bar Kupershtein - a released hostage and brave survivor of Hamas captivity - who is currently traveling across the U.S. to raise funds supporting the rehabilitation of all released hostages in Israel. Their connection grew naturally during the period when Bar and his family stayed at Kfar Maccabiah for his initial recovery – a deep human bond that continues to this day.

"I am honored and proud to take on the enormous responsibility of leading the movement together with the MWU and Maccabiah teams", Hessing shared. "Our work is more important than ever after two long and difficult years of war. We are preparing at full speed for the 2026 Maccabiah, the first major international event in Israel since October 7. I thank Amir Peled and MWU leadership for their trust, and I wish Amir Gissin great success as he continues on his path".