Geoff Cockerill: “Queensland continues to generate excellent participation numbers as more boys and girls, and men and women join our shared vision of being Australia’s favourite sport, and a sport for all Australians.” © Getty Images
Queensland are looking for a new chief executive, following the sudden resignation of Geoff Cockerill, six months before the conclusion of a three-year contract.
The state association has been through some troubled times in recent years, and Cockerill has overseen the use of strategic funding of some $4.05 million handed to Queensland by Cricket Australia, following the rejigging of the Board’s revenue model in 2012. Cockerill’s successor, not expected to be known for some months, will work closely with Kevin Roberts, the CA head of strategy, on building the game in the state.
“The business has gone a long way to achieving the type of financial freedom that we had identified as a priority when I started in the role,” Cockerill said. “Whilst that is important, I also take much pleasure in knowing that the groundwork has been laid for a sound transition as Australian cricket embraces the One Team philosophy and implementation that will drive the game to greater heights nationally.
“Queensland continues to generate excellent participation numbers as more boys and girls, and men and women join our shared vision of being Australia’s favourite sport, and a sport for all Australians. Strategic funding levels from Cricket Australia have never been higher, and Queenslanders are benefitting from this all around the state. I will look back on this time with pride and wish the staff and board every success as they continue on the path we have created.”
Cockerill, who replaced the late Graham Dixon as CEO in September 2013, joined QC from a background in the liquor industry, where he worked selling brands like XXXX and Bundaberg Rum for Lion Nathan and Diageo. While he enjoyed a wildly successful first summer as bumper Gabba Test crowds bankrolled a $4 million profit, last season was more problematic as Brisbane played only a peripheral role in the World Cup. It is presently jockeying for a day/night Test next summer.
Jim Holding, the Queensland chairman, said the association had not expected Cockerill’s resignation. “Whilst unexpected, the Board has accepted his resignation and we wish him the best for his future endeavours,” Holding said. “We will now proceed with a process that will allow us to spend the time, looking for the best candidate to lead the organisation into the future.
“Geoff was able to oversee a period of significant change in that period, and assist Queensland Cricket to reach a position of stability and strength. Our financial outcomes have been strong under his guidance, he has worked diligently to enhance and grow strong relationships with our key stakeholders, and he has taken significant roles in driving national outcomes such as the OneTeam project, as well as growing the game at a grassroots level.”
“He should be satisfied and proud of his achievements and we thank him for his efforts.”
Daniel Brettig is an assistant editor at ESPNcricinfo. @danbrettig
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Source: ESPN Crickinfo