Essex chief Stephenson lands new job in Australia

John Stephenson will replace interim chief executive officer Justin Michael at Western Australia

Essex chief executive John Stephenson will take up a similar role with Western Australia Cricket when he leaves the club at the end of the season.

It was announced earlier this month that the 59-year-old would be leaving to "pursue other projects", having been CEO at Chelmsford since the autumn of 2021.

Stephenson, who played for Essex and Hampshire and won one Test cap for England, previously worked for the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC).

"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," Stephenson told the WA Cricket website.

"Both the MCC and Essex are members-based organisations, 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."

Stephenson was appointed following a worldwide recruitment process.

"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," said chair Avril Fahey.

"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."