Former England Test Cricketer John Stephenson has been announced as WA Cricket’s New CEO who steps into the role after Christina Matthews resigned from the position.
The 59-year-old has played only one test for England against Australia at The Oval in 1989, scoring 25 and 11 in the match which resulted in a draw.
He has picked 396 wickets in 304 matches he played in first-class cricket, at an average of 32.55. Recently, he has been the chief executive of Essex for three years before making it as WACA’s CEO.
John Stephenson has travelled with Marylebone Cricket Club for 17 years at Lord’s in various roles, will commence his new role in the upcoming season. However. WACA’s Chief operating officer Justin Michael will continue in the interim chief executive role.
While speaking about joining WA Cricket, Stephenson said, “I’m absolutely thrilled and really excited about joining WA Cricket in such an important time for the organization, with the redevelopment and the success in the men’s and women’s teams, it’s a great time to be joining.”
“For me, leadership is about having a really positive impact. Community engagement and growing the sport in the state will be a massive focus, continuing on-field success, which includes producing more Australian players, and connecting communities with cricket is very important to me.
“I’ve visited the WACA Ground a few times and have wonderful memories. As a kid I remember watching Test Matches at the WACA on TV, it’s such an iconic ground and it’s exciting to be part of this next phase.”
“Both the MCC and Essex are members-based organizations, and interacting with members is a part of the role that I really enjoy. 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,” John Stephenson concluded.
WACA chairman Avril Fahey said that he went for a search to find a suitable person for the position and added that the board is excited to welcome Stephenson.
“John’s cricketing credentials, as both a player and an administrator are excellent, and we are highly confident he brings a fresh perspective and leadership to WA Cricket.
“He has vast experience working with members at the MCC and at Essex, driving redevelopments at cricket venues and most importantly, upholding strong professional values that align with WA Cricket.
“We’d like to take this opportunity to thank Justin Michael, who has done a wonderful job as Interim CEO. Justin’s ability to seamlessly step into the role and keep everything functioning has been invaluable to us during the recruitment process,” concluded WACA board Chairman Avril Fahrey.
