Ros Rivaz appointed to ICC board as independent director – Dr. Ros Rivaz Appointed as Independent Director to the ICC Board
A New Era of Governance for the ICC
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially announced the appointment of Dr. Ros C. Rivaz as an independent director. This strategic addition to the board underscores the organization’s ongoing commitment to professionalizing its governance and bringing diverse, high-level corporate expertise into the world of international cricket. Dr. Rivaz, a distinguished leader in the corporate sector, will serve an initial three-year term, with the possibility of an extension for a maximum of three additional years.
Professional Background and Expertise
Dr. Rivaz brings an impressive resume to the ICC. She currently serves as the chair of Anglian Water and acts as the lead independent director at both Aperam SA and Victrex plc. Her extensive background in Europe-based material science companies has honed her skills in navigating complex business landscapes. According to an official statement from the ICC, she is expected to provide a broad perspective on strategy, risk, and performance management, which are crucial components for the sustainable growth of a global sporting body.
Her professional profile is characterized by a deep understanding of governance and operational effectiveness. Throughout her career, she has proven to be an active and engaged board member, often going beyond the boardroom to engage in site visits and facilitate stakeholder interactions across various sectors, including government, commercial, and community spheres.
Commitment to Diversity and Social Impact
Beyond her corporate responsibilities, Dr. Rivaz has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to community engagement and social initiatives. Her work supporting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) uptake among young women through the Your-Life campaign highlights her dedication to fostering diversity and inclusion. Furthermore, her role as the chair of the Council of the University of Southampton and her active participation in charitable organizations like Water Aid showcase a leader who values long-term societal contribution.
The ICC has explicitly stated that her dedication to diversity and inclusion, combined with her strategic acumen, makes her an invaluable asset to the current board. This appointment is seen as a move toward ensuring that cricket remains a forward-thinking and inclusive sport.
Vision for the Future of Cricket
Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Dr. Rivaz noted the significance of joining the ICC during a transformative period for the sport. “It is a privilege to join the ICC Board at such an exciting time for the sport,” she remarked. “Cricket continues to reach new audiences, inspire communities and strengthen its position as one of the world’s most influential global sports.”
She emphasized that her focus will be on supporting the continued development 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,” she added.
Historical Context of the Appointment
The position of the independent director is a crucial component of the ICC’s modern constitutional framework. This practice was significantly bolstered in 2018 when the ICC appointed former PepsiCo chair and chief executive Indra Nooyi as its first independent female director. These governance changes were part of a broader reform package, reflecting recommendations similar to those found in the famously discarded Woolf report, which had long advocated for the inclusion of independent voices to ensure greater transparency and accountability within the governing body. By continuing this trend, the ICC is reinforcing its commitment to a more balanced and professionally managed administrative structure, ensuring that the sport is well-equipped to face the challenges of the modern global sports market.
