Ros Rivaz appointed to ICC board as independent director – Dr. Ros Rivaz Appointed as Independent Director to the ICC Board
A New Vision for Cricket Governance
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the appointment of Dr. Ros C. Rivaz to its board of directors. Serving in the capacity of an independent director, Dr. Rivaz brings a wealth of experience from the corporate sector, a move that is expected to bolster the ICC’s strategic direction, risk management, and overall operational effectiveness. Her initial term is set for three years, with the possibility of an extension for a further three-year period.
An Impressive Corporate Pedigree
Dr. Rivaz is a highly respected figure in the business world, currently serving as the chair of Anglian Water. Her leadership portfolio is extensive, including roles as the lead independent director at both Aperam SA and Victrex plc. These Europe-based material science companies have benefited from her broad perspective on complex organizational challenges. The ICC statement highlighting her appointment noted that her background provides an essential, high-level perspective on strategy, risk, and performance management that will be invaluable to cricket’s global administration.
Commitment to Governance and Diversity
The ICC emphasized that Dr. Rivaz is not merely an administrator but an active and engaged board member. Her career has been marked by a hands-on approach, involving extensive site visits and meaningful stakeholder interactions across government, commercial, and community sectors. Beyond her corporate achievements, Dr. Rivaz is widely recognized for her commitment to diversity and inclusion. Her professional ethos aligns with the modern requirements of international sports governance, where inclusivity is increasingly viewed as a prerequisite for sustainable growth.
Broader Contributions to Society
Her expertise extends well beyond the boardroom. Dr. Rivaz has been a tireless advocate for community and educational initiatives. Her work includes championing the Your-Life campaign, which seeks to encourage young women to pursue studies and careers in STEM fields. Furthermore, her role as the chair of the Council of the University of Southampton and her active participation in charitable organizations, such as Water Aid, demonstrate a deep-seated dedication to social responsibility and public service.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Cricket
Reflecting on her new appointment, Dr. Rivaz expressed her enthusiasm for the role and the potential for the sport. “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.”
She noted that her focus will be on supporting the growth of the game through sound governance and long-term strategic thinking. “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,” she added.
Contextualizing the Appointment
The role of an independent director within the ICC is a significant component of the body’s modern constitutional framework. This position was first established in 2018 when Indra Nooyi, the former PepsiCo chair and chief executive, became the first woman to serve as an independent director for the council. That move followed a series of extensive constitutional changes aimed at modernizing the way the sport is governed. The appointment of Dr. Rivaz serves as a continuation of these reforms, echoing the principles once outlined in the landmark Woolf report, which had long called for greater independent oversight within the sport’s governing structures. As cricket continues to expand its global footprint, the inclusion of independent voices like Dr. Rivaz is seen as a vital step toward maintaining transparency and professional excellence.
