Former Essex County Cricket Club boss John Stephenson has been appointed as WA Cricket’s new chief executive.
Former Essex County Cricket Club boss John Stephenson has been appointed as WA Cricket’s new chief executive.
Mr Stephenson, who also spent 17 years in a variety of roles with the Marylebone Cricket Club, based at Lords – a venue regarded as the home of cricket – will begin his tenure a few weeks out from the 2024-25 domestic cricket season.
Justin Michael – WA Cricket’s chief operating officer – will remain in his present interim CEO role until Mr Stephenson arrives in the west.
The announcement ushers in a new era for cricket in WA, following Christina Matthews’ 12-year tenure in the role, which officially ended on Easter Thursday this year.
During a recent interview with Business News, WACA chair Avril Fahey said an extensive search had been undertaken to find Ms Matthews’ successor.
It is a busy 12 months ahead for cricket in WA, with the $163.4 million WACA Ground Improvement Project expected to be completed by the middle of 2025.
Despite potential naming rights deals being explored for the venue, Ms Fahey made it clear the tradition and history of the iconic WA venue wouldn’t be compromised.
In a statement, Mr Stephenson said he was determined to form an enhanced bond between cricket and all Western Australians.
“Both the MCC and Essex are members-based organisations, and interacting with members is a part of the role that I really enjoy,” he said.
“My focus will be to make sure we connect WA Cricket and the WACA Ground with the members, club affiliates and the whole of the Western Australian community.”
As a player, Mr Stephenson played one Test for England in 1989 against Australia at The Oval in London, and enjoyed a lengthy career at county cricket level.
