Chris Dehring Appointed CEO of West Indies Cricket Board (WICB)

Chris Dehring, a distinguished figure in the realms of finance, sports management, media, and telecommunications, is set to return to Cricket West Indies (CWI) as its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), commencing his tenure on February 1, 2025. Selected from a vast pool of over fifty international applicants, Dehring’s appointment signifies CWI’s commitment to securing top-tier leadership to propel West Indies cricket into a new era of growth and dominance. His extensive experience and proven track record position him uniquely to steer the organization towards achieving its strategic goals and reclaiming its prominent position in the global cricketing landscape. Dehring’s selection, following a rigorous and merit-based process involving independent experts, underscores CWI’s dedication to transparency and securing the most qualified individual for this critical leadership role. CWI President, Dr. Kishore Shallow, lauded Dehring as an “innovator, strategist, business magnate, and passionate advocate for West Indies cricket,” emphasizing that his appointment heralds an exciting new chapter for the organization.

Dehring’s career is marked by a series of groundbreaking achievements. He revolutionized Caribbean media by founding SportsMax, the region’s first dedicated sports television broadcaster, bringing major international sporting events like the FIFA World Cup and the NBA to Caribbean audiences. His entrepreneurial spirit also extended to the financial sector, co-founding Jamaica’s first investment bank, Dehring, Bunting & Golding, which flourished and was eventually acquired by Scotiabank. Further demonstrating his innovative drive, he launched ReadyTV, Jamaica’s first digital broadcast television service, and ReadyNET, the country’s pioneering satellite internet provider. These ventures showcase his ability to identify opportunities and transform them into successful businesses, a skillset highly valuable in navigating the complex world of sports administration.

Dehring’s influence also extends to the telecommunications industry, where he held a key leadership position at Cable & Wireless Communications. As part of the Senior Executive Global Leadership Team, he played a pivotal role in managing annual revenues of $3.5 billion, spearheading innovative digital content delivery and expanding access to advanced telecommunications services across the Caribbean and Latin America. His ability to seamlessly integrate commercial strategy with technological advancements has garnered him international acclaim, solidifying his reputation as a forward-thinking leader capable of driving significant growth and innovation within diverse industries. This experience will be invaluable in modernizing CWI’s operations and maximizing its commercial potential.

Dehring’s previous association with CWI as Managing Director and CEO of ICC Cricket World Cup 2007 cemented his legacy as a transformative figure in West Indies cricket. His leadership during this period resulted in the construction of ten state-of-the-art stadiums across the Caribbean, significantly enhancing the region’s sporting infrastructure. He also introduced innovative fan experiences, such as the iconic Mound party stand at Sabina Park, elevating spectator engagement and creating a vibrant atmosphere. Furthermore, he championed development programs like the Shell Cricket Academy and Scotiabank Kiddy Cricket, investing in the future of West Indies cricket by nurturing young talent. Under his guidance, the 2007 World Cup achieved record-breaking revenues and global viewership, showcasing the Caribbean’s capacity to host major international sporting events and solidifying its position as a premier cricketing destination.

Dehring’s return to CWI is fueled by a deep-seated passion for West Indies cricket. He recognizes its unifying power and its significance as a symbol of regional pride. He aims to leverage his extensive experience and leadership acumen to drive innovation, foster talent development, and reignite the passion for West Indies cricket both within the Caribbean and on the global stage. His vision includes strengthening the organization’s financial position, enhancing fan engagement, and developing a winning culture within the West Indies cricket teams. He envisions a future where West Indies cricket reclaims its former glory and consistently competes at the highest level, inspiring a new generation of cricketers and fans.

Dehring will be based at CWI’s headquarters at the Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG) in Antigua, a strategic location that will allow him to closely oversee the organization’s operations and engage with key stakeholders. He is eager to collaborate with the CWI team and its partners to implement a comprehensive strategic vision and achieve the organization’s operational objectives. His appointment signifies a renewed sense of optimism for West Indies cricket, with the hope that his leadership will usher in an era of sustained success and revitalize the region’s passion for the sport. His multifaceted experience, combined with his unwavering commitment to West Indies cricket, positions him well to navigate the challenges and capitalize on the opportunities that lie ahead.