An Important Governance Move for Global Cricket
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 scheduled to begin an initial three-year term, with the potential for an extension of up to a maximum of three additional years. This strategic appointment comes at a crucial juncture for the sport, as cricket continues its rapid expansion into new global territories and community demographics.
As an independent director, Dr Rivaz is expected to provide critical oversight, objective analysis, and strategic direction. Her appointment reflects the ICC’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its administrative framework and align its leadership with modern corporate standards.
A Stellar Professional and Corporate Background
Dr Rivaz joins the ICC board with a highly distinguished track record in corporate leadership, risk management, and strategic development. She currently serves as the chair of Anglian Water and holds the position of lead independent director at Aperam SA and Victrex plc, both of which are prominent Europe-based material science companies.
Throughout her career, Dr Rivaz has held senior executive roles in major blue-chip companies, both within the United Kingdom and across international markets. According to an official statement from the ICC, her vast corporate experience is set to provide “a broad perspective on strategy, risk and performance management” to the governing body of world cricket.
The ICC statement further emphasized her active approach to leadership: “Throughout her career, Dr Rivaz has been an active and engaged board member, undertaking site visits and stakeholder interactions across government, commercial, and community sectors. Her deep understanding of governance, corporate strategy, and operational effectiveness is complemented by her commitment to diversity and inclusion, making her a strong addition to the ICC Board.”
A Commitment to Diversity and Community Development
Beyond her corporate achievements, Dr Rivaz has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to social responsibility, education, and community development. She has been actively involved in several high-profile initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity and creating educational opportunities.
Among her notable contributions is her support for the Your-Life campaign, an initiative designed to encourage and increase the uptake of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects among young women. Additionally, Dr Rivaz has served as the chair of the Council of the University of Southampton and has participated in various local community projects and global charities, including Water Aid.
This dedication to social impact, diversity, and inclusion aligns closely with the ICC’s current objectives of making cricket a more inclusive and accessible sport for people of all backgrounds worldwide.
Dr Ros Rivaz on Her New Role
Expressing her enthusiasm about joining the governing body, Dr Rivaz highlighted the immense potential of the sport and the importance of solid administrative foundations.
“It is a privilege to join the ICC Board at such an exciting time for the sport,” Dr Rivaz said. “Cricket continues to reach new audiences, inspire communities and strengthen its position as one of the world’s most influential global sports.”
She also emphasized the core values that will guide her tenure on the board: “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. 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.”
The Evolution of Independent Governance at the ICC
The concept of independent directors on the ICC board is part of a broader, long-term effort to reform the governing body’s constitutional structure. The path was notably paved in 2018 when former PepsiCo chair and chief executive Indra Nooyi was appointed as the ICC’s very first independent female director.
This structural change was part of a series of extensive constitutional amendments implemented by the ICC at the time. The introduction of independent minds to the board echoes the recommendations of the highly discussed Woolf report, which had previously advocated for the inclusion of independent directors to ensure unbiased decision-making, improve transparency, and minimize conflicts of interest within the sport’s global administration.
With Dr Ros Rivaz now stepping into this vital role, the ICC continues to build on these foundational reforms, aiming to secure a prosperous and well-governed future for international cricket.
