The transition in leadership at Lord’s continues with Guy Lavender set to depart his role as the MCC chief executive by the year's end. Lavender is set to take the helm at Cheltenham Racecourse, marking another shift in the MCC’s executive landscape.
Having joined MCC in October 2017 after serving as chief executive at Somerset, Lavender brought with him a wealth of experience from an 18-year military career in the Parachute Regiment, culminating in his retirement as a lieutenant colonel in 2006.
Lavender’s departure comes amid a period of significant turnover at MCC. In October, Mark Nicholas is slated to transition from his position as president to chairman, succeeding Bruce Carnegie-Brown, who opted not to pursue a second term. Meanwhile, Mervyn King, the former Bank of England governor, will assume the presidency for a one-year term.
Additionally, the club witnessed Jamie Cox’s exit to become Somerset’s chief executive, with Rob Lynch, formerly of the Professional Cricketers’ Association, stepping in as the new director of cricket and operations.
During his tenure, Lavender provided steady leadership through turbulent times, particularly navigating strained relations with some members. The club’s attempt to relocate “historic fixtures” such as Eton v Harrow and Oxford v Cambridge from Lord’s met with strong member opposition. Despite recommendations from the Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket to move these fixtures, they remain at Lord’s.
Lavender also managed internal controversies, including a hot-mic incident involving Carnegie-Brown at the 2022 AGM and comments from former president Stephen Fry that angered members. Moreover, Lavender addressed an incident during an Ashes Test, where Australian players alleged abuse from members in the Long Room, leading to disciplinary actions against some members.
Under Lavender's leadership, the club navigated the financial challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic and oversaw significant redevelopment projects at Lord’s, such as the reconstruction of the Compton and Edrich Stands. Further redevelopment work on the Tavern and Allen Stands is set to commence later this year.
Looking ahead, the final months of Lavender’s tenure are critical for MCC’s future. As co-owners of the eight host venues, the MCC is poised to acquire a 51% stake in London Spirit, one of the teams in The Hundred, with the remaining 49% to be sold to private investors. MCC’s members will vote on whether to accept this proposal in an upcoming special general meeting.
The search for Lavender’s successor has begun, spearheaded by the nominations committee. Mark Nicholas, with a three-year term as chairman, is expected to play a pivotal role in the selection process. As president, Nicholas has already made significant contributions, including the launch of World Cricket Connects, a conference featuring leading figures in the sport. He has emphasised his desire to bring fun back to the club and foster harmony among its members.