East to leave Essex

David East, Essex's chief executive, is to leave the county for a new role in the UAE. East, who was Essex's wicketkeeper during the 1980s and made more than 350 appearances for the county, has been appointed as chief executive of Abu Dhabi Cricket Club and Emirates Cricket Board.

After ending his playing career, East returned to Essex as commercial manager before being made chief executive in 2000. He will remain with the club until the end of the year and help oversee the process of recruiting a successor.

"David leaves the role after 12 years in the position and everyone associated with the club would like to wish him the best of luck in the United Arab Emirates," Nigel Hilliard, Essex's chairman, said.