Yorkshire County Cricket Club is pleased to announce that Ian Townsend has been appointed Deputy Chair of the Club.
Ian joined the Board of Yorkshire County Cricket Club (YCCC) in April 2024 as the member-nominated Non-Executive Director. Prior to this, he served for seven years on the Club’s Members’ Committee.
A chartered accountant by background, Ian brings extensive experience across business and sport. He has served on the boards of listed companies, sporting organisations and government grant committees, and previously built his own successful accountancy practice in Harrogate after beginning his career at a Big Four firm.
Ian also has significant experience in raising capital for investment in sport, having led two flotations on the London Stock Exchange, including the reverse takeover of Sheffield United. He later served as Chief Executive of Sheffield United Plc for two years, where he was responsible for all operational aspects of the club outside of football matters.
Speaking about his appointment, Ian Townsend said:
“As a lifelong supporter of Yorkshire, I’m delighted to have been appointed Deputy Chair and look forward to continuing to work with the Board, staff and members as we enter an exciting and ambitious era for Yorkshire County Cricket Club.
“We’ve experienced a transformative year at the club, including the sale of our stake in the Northern Superchargers, but there is still important work to be done to restore Yorkshire’s rightful place as one of the leading clubs in English cricket. I’m excited to play my part in the next chapter.”
Colin Graves, Chairman of YCCC said:
“We are pleased to name Ian as Deputy Chair in recognition of his long-standing commitment to Yorkshire and the experience and expertise he brings to the Board.
“To be a truly successful club we need leaders who understand both Yorkshire and the business of sport. Continuing to strengthen our financial position will be key to protecting the Club’s future and restoring Yorkshire to the top of the game. I look forward to working closely with Ian and the rest of the Board to deliver against those ambitions.”