FORMER Ashes winning England spinner Ashley Giles has been appointed Worcestershire CCC’s new chief executive.
Giles will take up his new role on Monday, July 3 where he will be tasked with the ‘comprehensive management of the club’
The 50-year-old had been out of work since leaving his job as England managing director last February after the 4-0 Ashes debacle in Australia.
Giles has also served as a coach at Warwickshire as well as a director of cricket/sport roles at both the Bears and Lancashire and his appointment was met with unanimous approval from the Pears board.
In addition to his playing and coaching experience, Giles has completed a Masters degree in Sports Directorship at Manchester Metropolitan University.
Speaking after his appointment was confirmed, the 2005 Ashes winner said he was ‘honoured and thrilled’ to start a new chapter in his career.
“Having resided in Worcestershire for 25 years, having married and raised my children here, I have developed a deep appreciation for the club’s rich history and recognise the immense potential for an exciting and promising future,” he said.
“I am eager to make a meaningful contribution to the club’s growth and success and am looking forward to the opportunity to connect with our passionate members, supporters and club community to ensure exceptional performance both on and off the field.”
The new Pears CEO will be tasked with managing key club relationships and partnerships in conjunction with the executive team.
In addition, he will play a pivotal role in driving the development, enhancement, and growth of cricket within the club.
With his leadership and extensive experience in cricket, he will provide invaluable support to the coaching teams across the men’s and women’s senior squads, academy and pathway.
Delighted Worcestershire chair Fanos Hira labelled Giles as ‘the definitive choice’ to lead the Pears into what he called a ‘transformative era’.
“We possess utmost confidence his dynamic leadership and unwavering passion for the sport will serve as indispensable assets in propelling us towards success on and off the field,” he said.
ANALYSIS: Ashes winner a terrific fit for Pears
Observer sports editor Rob George on the appointment of a new figurehead for Worcestershire CCC
IT’S apt Ashley Giles lands a new job in the week the Ashes gets underway as both he and England seek a form of redemption.
Ben Stokes’ side will seek to avenge a 4-0 reverse Down Under 18 months ago, a debacle which saw a number of people involved with the national side – including Giles – lose their jobs.
The respected former England slow left-armer has been out of the spotlight since then, despite rumours of a return to the club up the road.
I believe his appointment is the right move for all involved as Giles has good record as a coach and administrator and will provide a terrific link between the boardroom and dressing room.
You can imagine the addition of Giles will only bolster the Pears in any recruitment pitches too, after all it’s not everyday the King of Spain comes to work at New Road!