ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC):

Jamaican Chris Dehring has been named chief executive officer (CEO) of Cricket West Indies (CWI) and will officially begin his new tenure on February 1, 2025.

A release from CWI yesterday said Dehring was selected from a competitive pool of over 50 applicants from Europe, Australia, Afghanistan, India, and the Caribbean.

As the founder of SportsMax, the Caribbean’s first sports television broadcaster, Dehring revolutionised the region’s media landscape by showcasing global events such as the FIFA World Cup and the NBA.

He also co-founded Jamaica’s first investment bank, Dehring, Bunting & Golding, which grew into a financial powerhouse and was eventually acquired by Scotiabank.

CWI president Dr Kishore Shallow welcomed Dehring’s appointment, describing him as “the best of the best”.

“Consistent with the priority to recruit exceptional leadership to drive our mission forward, Chris Dehring represents the best of the best — an innovator, strategist, business magnate and passionate advocate for West Indies cricket.

“His return as an executive at West Indies cricket signals the dawn of an exciting new era as we work to reclaim our position as a dominant force in world cricket,” Dr Shallow said.

Dehring previously served as managing director and CEO of ICC Cricket World Cup 2007, where he delivered one of the most complex and successful multination sporting events in the Caribbean’s history.

In a brief statement, he said he was excited to once again be in a position to make a contribution to West Indies cricket.

“West Indies cricket has always held a special place in my heart.

“Together with the CWI team and stakeholders, I am committed to driving innovation, fostering talent, and reigniting the passion for West Indies cricket, both at home and globally,” Dehring said.