Sussex name new chief executive

Sussex have announced that Gus Mackay, currently operations director at Leicestershire, has been appointed as the club's new chief executive to succeed Hugh Griffiths in October 2006.

David Green, the Sussex Chairman, said: "After an exhaustive process we are delighted to have found Gus who has an excellent blend of business and cricket experience, with a background in finance and as a player for Zimbabwe. In recent times he has been a very effective administrator at Leicestershire and established a positive reputation for himself within county cricket".

Mackay added: "I am delighted with the appointment and look forward to leading the Club to further success both on and off the field. The challenges ahead are very exciting for all involved at the club with a new ground development. It is vital, however, that the club balances the books in the near future and continues to remain competitive in all competitions.

"It is essential that we maximise the ECB's performance related fee payments by developing English qualified players and the club has an excellent youth structure which will enable it to do so. Building on the success of Team England, we need to attract new audiences and increase participation at all levels."

Mackay will take on the role of Chief Executive in October following a three-month hand over period when he will work alongside Griffiths. "I have thoroughly enjoyed every one of the 11 years spent at Sussex in various roles," said Griffiths, "I am delighted at the prospect of working with Gus in the future and wish him every success in his new role".