Global hunt for new Cricket Australia CEO to replace Nick Hockley as favourite within the game emerges

Cricket Australia is pulling out all the stops in its attempt to find a successor to CEO Nick Hockley, though one hopeful seems to be the standout candidate.

Cricket Australia has engaged one of the world’s biggest executive search firms to lead the hunt for its new chief executive.

It’s understood CA is using Chicago-based Spencer Stuart to scour the globe to find candidates suitable to replace the departing Nick Hockley, who announced in August that he would be stepping down from the role around the end of the Australian season.

Though Australian Cricketers’ Association chief executive Todd Greenberg is the consensus favourite for the job within cricket circles, CA is at least giving the impression of keeping an open mind by calling upon a firm that according to its website has offices in more than 30 countries and was this year ranked by business magazine Forbes as America’s third best executive recruiting firm.

CA has tended to look inwardly when appointing new chief executives. James Sutherland was an internal promotion when appointed to the role in 2001, while Kevin Roberts (2018) and Hockley (interim in 2020 and then permanent in 2021) had both been working in cricket before being appointed.

ACA CEO Todd Greenberg with Test skipper Pat Cummins. Picture: NCA NewsWire

Greenberg, the ex-NRL chief executive, joined the ACA in early 2021 and has overseen a period of improved relations between players and the governing body.

With a player pay deal locked away until 2028 and a home broadcast rights agreement extending until 2031, whoever replaces Hockley will not have imminent concerns around arguably the two biggest-ticket negotiations.

But the volatile global cricket landscape marked by Indian financial dominance, encroaching franchise leagues and managing the delicate issue of bilateral series against Afghanistan means there will be no shortage of issues to consume Hockley’s successor.

As ever the new CEO will have to manage the sometimes-turbulent relationships with CA’s six owner state bodies, a quirk of the game’s federated model.

“This was a difficult decision, however following what promises to be a blockbuster summer and with our five-year strategic plan well progressed, this is the right time to pursue another challenge, while giving the board plenty of time to find its next CEO to build on the strong foundations now in place,” Hockley said when his departure was announced.

“This is not the time for goodbyes, as I remain completely focused on the season ahead and supporting the Board on succession and a smooth transition.”

Departing Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley. Picture: Getty

CA chair Mike Baird lauded Hockley.

“As CEO, Nick navigated the sport through a period of unprecedented challenge during the pandemic and has delivered significant growth and stability. Under Nick’s leadership, several major deals are now in place – many for the next seven years – and the game is set up for continued success.

“As Nick says, his full focus is on delivering another successful summer for our fans, players, broadcasters, partners and the whole of Australian cricket and there will be time to celebrate his legacy and achievements when he steps down from the role next year.

“The timing of Nick’s decision allows the board to ensure a smooth transition and we will begin the process of finding and appointing his successor shortly.”

Originally published as Global hunt for new Cricket Australia CEO to replace Nick Hockley as favourite within the game emerges