After three successful years, John Stephenson has decided to step down as Chief Executive of Essex Cricket after the conclusion of the 2024 playing season to pursue other projects.
He will remain at the Club until then to focus on regulatory issues and work with the Board on other strategic priorities.
Essex Chair Anu Mohindru KC said of John, who also played for the County in two spells: “He has shown outstanding leadership in guiding Essex through the last three years, and we are extremely sad to see him step down but we respect his reasons.
“These have been difficult times for the Club in facing historical allegations of racism, but we were extremely fortunate to have John as CEO. He was prepared to tackle the allegations head on, and in doing so demonstrated resolve, wisdom, fairness and integrity.
“During his tenure, we have been successful in securing a Women’s Tier One team and developing a clear vision and master plan for a new ground. He leaves this County in a stronger position and much better equipped to build for the future.
“John served the County as a player, Chief Executive and Interim Chair and so he is an integral part of Essex’s history. We respect his decision to leave, thank him for his immense contribution to the game and wish him well in his future endeavours.”
John, who was also MCC Head of Cricket from 2004 before moving to Essex, played Test cricket for England, as well as playing for and captaining Hampshire, said: “This has been a difficult decision to make as Essex has been in my bloodstream since the day I walked through the doors at Chelmsford in 1984.
“I am proud of what I achieved here. I have loved my time as Chief Executive and particularly enjoyed working with our diverse and talented board and our close-knit team of professional and dedicated staff.
“We have enjoyed success on the field and I am certain there is more to come. I wish everyone at the Club the very best for the future, which I am confident will be successful, building on the strong foundations which we, as a team, have built. I will always be willing to assist Essex in any way that I can in the future.”
