Somerset Cricket Foundation today announces that Jon Bendle, Managing Director, will be leaving his role to take up a new position as Director of Business Operations at Somerset County Cricket Club.
Jon led the Foundation for nearly four years, having joined during a pivotal time of transformation as the organisation transitioned from Somerset Cricket Board to Somerset Cricket Foundation. During his tenure, Jon has played a crucial role in leading the Foundation’s growth and impact across the county.
Under Jon’s leadership, the Foundation’s income nearly doubled, significantly expanding the reach and effectiveness of its work in communities throughout Somerset. His focus on using cricket as a vehicle for positive change has driven outcomes that have improved lives – particularly among those in the most deprived areas and disadvantaged communities.
Winston Duguid, Chair of Somerset Cricket Foundation, praised Jon’s contributions, saying:
“Jon joined us nearly four years ago just as we were transitioning from cricket board to cricket foundation. Under his stewardship income has nearly doubled, enabling us to increase outcomes that improve people’s lives through cricket, often those in the most deprived parts of the county and with some of the most disadvantaged in society. Jon has led our charity to be regarded by the ECB as a leading organisation in safeguarding, schools delivery, cricket workforce, disability playing offer and facilities operations. Our thanks for his considerable achievements in his SCF role and we wish him every success in his new important role for the county club. The staff and trustees at Somerset Cricket Foundation are proud of what has been achieved under Jon’s leadership and are excited for him as he embarks on this next chapter. While he will be missed, his appointment at Somerset County Cricket Club ensures the continued alignment and strengthening of cricket in Somerset – from grassroots to elite level.”
Jamie Cox, CEO of Somerset County Cricket Club, welcomes Jon to the team, saying:
“The brilliant work Jon has done during his time with the Foundation, immediately made him a strong candidate for this role, once he identified interest. Our two organisations enjoy best-in-class status for the way that we collaborate and this critical relationship will remain a focus for Jon in this role. The current growth and change in the game will demand that the Club transforms in step and Jon’s role will be a critical one in keeping the Club at cricket’s top table. We are delighted that he is joining the Club and developing this important leadership role within Somerset cricket.”
A recruitment process for the next Managing Director of Somerset Cricket Foundation will begin shortly and we welcome applications via James Hildreth at McBride here. Please see the recruitment pack here.
