Johnny Grave is officially set to step down as the CEO of Cricket West Indies (CWI) in October 2024, marking the end of an influential tenure that began in February 2017. Grave announced his decision to resign and seek new challenges in his career, leaving a significant impact on the organization during a transformative period.
Grave’s tenure began at a challenging time for Cricket West Indies, as the organization faced serious financial difficulties. As soon as he took the helm, he was tasked with stabilizing and revitalizing the body that governs West Indian cricket. Under his leadership, CWI managed to navigate the turbulent waters of financial instability and successfully orchestrate various international cricket tournaments.
One of the most demanding periods Grave had to manage was during the unprecedented global COVID-19 pandemic. He acknowledged the difficulties and expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the West Indian cricket community, especially the staff and players, for their unwavering support and cooperation.
“I have received tremendous support from so many people since becoming CEO, and I’d like to thank everyone, especially the staff and the players, particularly during the difficult pandemic,” Grave stated in a press release issued by CWI. “Their trust in me and their commitment to West Indies cricket has been phenomenal.”
Grave highlighted the collective efforts made to sustain the organization through his candid reflection on his journey. “I have put everything into this role, and now is the right time for someone new with fresh energy to lead the organisation and continue this important work,” he said. Grave underscored the importance of new leadership to continue building on the strong foundations established during his term.
A prominent highlight of his tenure was the successful administration of three major ICC tournaments—ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2018, ICC Men’s U19 World Cup 2022, and the upcoming Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. These events fortified the West Indies’ reputation as a stellar host of international cricket, thus raising the region’s profile on the global stage.
Cricket West Indies President Kishore Shallow was quick to commend Grave’s contributions.
. “Johnny’s efforts, particularly through challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic, have made a lasting impact on CWI,” noted Shallow. “The organization has taken many positive strides during his tenure. A standout achievement is the acquisition and full ownership of the Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG), which is now our headquarters and home to our Men’s and Women’s Academies.”
One of the landmark achievements of Grave’s leadership was the acquisition of the Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG). This acquisition not only provides CWI with a permanent headquarters but also serves as a center for nurturing young talent through specialized academies for men and women. This move ensures a vibrant future for cricket in the West Indies, fostering new generations of cricketers who can continue the island’s rich cricketing traditions.
As Cricket West Indies gears up to find a successor to Grave, it has committed to a thorough and transparent recruitment process. The organization emphasized its dedication to a meticulous selection procedure aimed at securing a leader who can build on the advancements made during Grave’s term.
“Cricket West Indies will be initiating a comprehensive recruitment process to select the next CEO. The organisation is dedicated to ensuring a thorough and transparent selection process. Details regarding the recruitment process will be announced shortly and will be published across various media platforms to keep stakeholders informed,” confirmed a statement from CWI.
The sports world will closely watch who takes up the mantle from Grave, as he leaves behind a robust framework that promises continued progress for West Indies cricket. His tenure shall be marked not only by the challenges faced and overcome but also by the strong, strategic foundations laid for the future. Grave’s legacy is set to inspire those who follow, underlining a commitment to resilience, innovation, and unwavering dedication to the game.
As Johnny Grave prepares to seek new challenges, his departure signals the end of an era for Cricket West Indies while also heralding the dawn of new possibilities that the incoming leadership will strive to realize.
