Ros Rivaz appointed to ICC board as independent director – Dr. Ros Rivaz Appointed as Independent Director to the ICC Board
A New Era of Strategic Governance at the ICC
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially announced the appointment of Dr. Ros C. Rivaz as an independent director. This appointment signals a continued commitment by the global governing body to integrate high-level corporate expertise into the administration of the sport. Dr. Rivaz joins the board on an initial three-year term, with the possibility of extending her service for an additional three years, ensuring a stable and long-term vision for the council.
The Background of a Global Leader
Dr. Rivaz brings a formidable resume to the table. She currently serves as the chair of Anglian Water and acts as the lead independent director at both Aperam SA and Victrex plc. Her career is characterized by successful executive roles in blue-chip companies across the UK and the international market. The ICC has highlighted her ability to provide a comprehensive perspective on strategy, risk, and performance management as a primary reason for her selection.
Beyond her corporate credentials, Dr. Rivaz is noted for her hands-on approach to leadership. The ICC statement described her as an engaged board member who prioritizes site visits and stakeholder interaction. Her professional profile is bolstered by a deep commitment to governance, corporate strategy, and operational effectiveness—all qualities that are expected to serve the board well as it navigates the complexities of the modern sporting landscape.
Commitment to Diversity and Community
The ICC has placed a strong emphasis on Dr. Rivaz’s dedication to diversity and inclusion. Her influence extends well beyond the boardroom, as she has been actively involved in educational and community-focused initiatives. Notably, she has supported the ‘Your-Life’ campaign, which encourages young women to pursue careers in STEM, and has served as the chair of the Council of the University of Southampton. Her involvement with charities such as Water Aid further underscores her focus on social responsibility.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for Cricket
Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Dr. Rivaz stated that it is a privilege to join the ICC at such a pivotal time for cricket. “Cricket continues to reach new audiences, inspire communities and strengthen its position as one of the world’s most influential global sports,” she remarked. Her goal is to work closely with the ICC Chairman and fellow board members to bolster the game’s global growth through strong governance and inclusive decision-making.
She emphasized that long-term thinking will be essential to ensure that cricket thrives and continues to provide opportunities for future generations worldwide. Her appointment is seen as a continuation of the ICC’s efforts to modernize its leadership structure, which began in 2018 with the appointment of Indra Nooyi, the former PepsiCo chair and CEO, as the first independent female director.
Reflecting on the ICC’s Constitutional Evolution
The inclusion of independent directors is part of a broader strategy of constitutional reform within the ICC. These changes aim to enhance transparency and provide a more balanced perspective on the board. This development draws parallels to the historical Woolf report, which had long advocated for the presence of independent directors to ensure the governing body operates with the highest standards of integrity and objectivity. By bringing in leaders like Dr. Rivaz, the ICC is reinforcing its commitment to these principles, ensuring that the sport remains well-positioned to meet the challenges and opportunities of the coming decade.
