Dr Ros Rivaz Appointed to ICC Board as Independent Director
Dr Ros Rivaz Joins ICC Board to Strengthen Global Cricket Governance
In a significant step toward bolstering its administrative structure, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially announced the appointment of Dr Ros C Rivaz to its board as an independent director. Dr Rivaz is slated to join the governing body for an initial three-year term, with the possibility of a three-year extension, bringing her maximum potential tenure to six years. Her appointment comes at a crucial juncture for cricket as the sport continues to expand its global footprint and seeks to modernize its executive decision-making processes.
An Exceptional Track Record in Global Business
Dr Rivaz brings a wealth of high-level corporate experience to the ICC Board. Currently serving as the chair of Anglian Water, she also holds key roles as the lead independent director at Aperam SA and Victrex plc, both prominent Europe-based material science companies. Throughout her illustrious career, she has held numerous executive positions within blue-chip companies, both in the United Kingdom and internationally. According to an official statement released by the ICC, this extensive background equips her to provide “a broad perspective on strategy, risk and performance management.”
Her professional journey is characterized by active engagement and a hands-on approach to leadership. Dr Rivaz has consistently demonstrated her commitment by undertaking site visits and engaging closely with stakeholders across public, commercial, and community sectors. This deep understanding of corporate strategy, operational effectiveness, and rigorous governance standards makes her an invaluable addition to the ICC’s leadership team.
Advocating for Diversity, Inclusion, and STEM
Beyond her impressive corporate credentials, Dr Rivaz is highly regarded for her commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Her dedication to these values is reflected in her active participation in various educational and community initiatives. Notably, she has been a strong supporter of encouraging young women to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects through the “Your-Life” campaign.
Additionally, Dr Rivaz has served as the chair of the Council of the University of Southampton, demonstrating her deep ties to academic leadership. Her philanthropic endeavors include working with reputable charities such as WaterAid, alongside various local community projects. This holistic blend of business acumen and social responsibility ensures that her contributions to the ICC will extend beyond commercial growth to encompass broader social impact and community development.
A Vision for the Future of Global Cricket
Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Dr Rivaz highlighted the transformative phase that global cricket is currently undergoing. “It is a privilege to join the ICC Board at such an exciting time for the sport,” she stated. “Cricket continues to reach new audiences, inspire communities and strengthen its position as one of the world’s most influential global sports.”
Dr Rivaz expressed her eagerness to collaborate with the ICC leadership and the broader cricketing community. “I look forward to working alongside the ICC Chairman, fellow Board members, and the wider cricket family to support the continued growth of the game,” she added. “Strong governance, long-term thinking and an inclusive approach to decision-making will be central to ensuring cricket continues to thrive and create opportunities for future generations across all parts of the world.”
Echoes of Reform: The Evolution of ICC Governance
The introduction of independent directors to the ICC board is part of a broader, long-term effort to reform the governing body’s constitutional framework. The precedent for this role was established in 2018 when Indra Nooyi, the former chair and chief executive of PepsiCo, was appointed as the ICC’s first independent female director. Nooyi’s historic appointment was a cornerstone of a series of extensive constitutional changes aimed at improving transparency and modernizing the administration of global cricket.
The inclusion of independent voices like Dr Rivaz and Indra Nooyi reflects the recommendations of the landmark Woolf Report. Published over a decade ago, the Woolf Report strongly advocated for the integration of independent directors to challenge the status quo, reduce conflicts of interest, and elevate the standard of governance within the sport’s highest decision-making body. By continuing to appoint highly accomplished independent female leaders, the ICC reaffirms its commitment to modern governance practices, strategic risk mitigation, and inclusive growth as cricket prepares for its next chapter of global expansion.
