Sears to depart Derbyshire

Derbyshire have announced the chief executive Tom Sears is to leave the County Ground after three and a half years in charge.

Sears, 39, will take up new position responsible for business development with New Zealand Cricket, based in Christchurch.

Sears said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with Derbyshire and am pleased with the progress we have made.

“It has been challenging, and at times difficult decisions have had to be made.

“But I hope most members and supporters will feel the club is in a better position now than it was four years ago.

“I have been extremely lucky to have had tremendous support from the excellent team of people at the County Ground and everything that has been achieved is a result of their hard work and dedication.

The County Ground at Derby has been completely redeveloped under chief executive Tom Sears

“I genuinely believe that Derbyshire have every reason to face the future with optimism and confidence and hope that the club continue to make the bold decisions necessary to continue the progress of the last few years.”

The club were facing significant six-figure losses prior to Sears’ arrival from Worcestershire in February 2005.

Since his arrival the county has seen a 300% increase in gate receipts, secured the largest sponsorship deal in the club’s history and enjoyed a successful return of championship cricket to Queen’s Park, Chesterfield.

“It has been a long held ambition of mine to work abroad and this opportunity with New Zealand Cricket is hugely exciting for me professionally and will be a great experience for my family.”

Derbyshire chairman Don Amott added: “Tom has made a fantastic contribution during his time with the club and under his leadership the executive team have made enormous strides in turning the business around.

“He is widely respected within this game, we have had an excellent working relationship as chairman and chief executive and he will be greatly missed by all at the club.

“On their behalf I would like to thank him for his sterling work and wish him and his family every success in New Zealand.

“The challenge for us now is to find someone who can continue to help us move forward, provide the continuity we need and forge strong working relationships with myself and our head of cricket John Morris.”