CRICKET: New face on board at Lancashire as another steps down

Lancashire Cricket have announced the appointment of Rachel Downey onto its Board of Directors, along with the news that Geoffrey Shindler is stepping down from the Board after 14 years. 

A chartered accountant with years of experience, Rachel Downey has worked in urban regeneration in the region for 30 years, with several of her projects involving sport.

Downey has been a Managing Director at Manchester Life for six years, playing a pivotal part in the renovation of Ancoats, and has previously been involved in the 2002 Commonwealth Games and on venue planning in London after the Olympics.

Lancashire Cricket will use Downey’s legal and financial knowledge to boost their development and growth off the field.

Speaking on the appointment, Les Platt, Acting Chairman of Lancashire Cricket Club, said: “Firstly, I would like to extend a warm welcome to Rachel onto the Club’s Board. She brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise gained from leading roles at the very highest level in Manchester.

“Her skills and experience will be crucial in working alongside our existing Board Members, as we continue to guide the Club through these both uncertain and unprecedented times.”

This announcement is paired with the news that Geoffrey Shindler, long-serving member of Lancashire’s Board, has stepped down from his position.

Shindler joined Lancashire’s committee in 2006, remaining at the club when the Board was formed in 2013. Shindler has played a massive role in the structure of the club, re-writing the Club Rules in 2012 which resulted in the formation of the new Board and Nominations Committee, which he was Original Chairman of alongside his position on the Remuneration Committee.

Lancashire’s Acting Chairman shared some kind words on Shindler: “Secondly, on behalf of the entirety of Lancashire Cricket Club, I would like to place on record my heartfelt gratitude to the unwavering service which Geoffrey has given the Club for the last 14 years.

“Geoffrey has worked tirelessly during his time on the Board to help to navigate the Club through difficult times and shape the Club into what it has become today.

“I know that Geoffrey holds Lancashire Cricket Club close to his heart and we look forward to welcoming him back to Emirates Old Trafford as a supporter in the near future.”