Essex County Cricket Club today announced a landmark appointment, confirming Rachel Lewis as the new Chair of the Board.
Lewis becomes the first female Chair in the Club’s 150-year history – a significant milestone for the Club.
Lewis, a former professional athlete and an Olympian, joins the Board having served as Chair of Essex Cricket in the Community for the past three years, where she has driven engagement and inclusivity initiatives across the county. Her appointment comes at a pivotal moment for the Club, as both the Men’s and Women’s first teams compete in the top tier of domestic cricket, the Community work of the Club across the region goes from strength to strength and a major ground redevelopment programme is set to get underway.
“It is an immense honour to be appointed Chair of Essex County Cricket Club, particularly in this, our 150th year,” said Lewis. “This Club has a proud heritage, and I am excited to build on that foundation as we embark on a critical new chapter. With the redevelopment of our ground and both our teams competing at the highest level, we have a tremendous opportunity to drive Essex Cricket forward. I am grateful for the trust placed in me and look forward to working with the Board, our players, staff, and members to ensure continued success.”
Jamas Hodivala KC has been appointed as Deputy Chair, bringing significant legal and governance expertise to the leadership team.
The Club also extends its sincere thanks to Jason Gallian and Vicky Ford for their stewardship as Chair and Deputy Chair. Both Gallian and Ford will continue to contribute as Board members, ensuring stability and continuity during this important transitional period whilst offering support to the new Chair and the leadership team.
Dan Feist, Chief Executive of Essex Cricket, added: “This is a historic day for Essex Cricket. Rachel’s appointment is a testament to her outstanding contribution to the Club and to cricket in the region. Her experience as an Olympian and her proven leadership in the community space makes her the ideal person to lead our Board at this exciting time. We are exceptionally well placed to move forward strongly, with a united Board focused on delivering success on and off the pitch.”
Club President, John Lever MBE, also added: "During a year of celebration, it is exciting to announce the first female Chair in the Club’s history.
“It is a hugely positive announcement, and I look forward to supporting the Board and Rachel in our future success."
The Club looks forward to the next phase of its journey under Rachel Lewis’s leadership, building on 150 years of history and embracing a future of ambition and inclusivity.
