Ed Warner says it is a privilege to be named new chair of Sussex.
But he recognises there are big challenges ahead.
Warner spent ten years as chair of UK Athletics, which included the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games and the 2017 World Athletics and World Para Athletics Championships.
He also leads GB Wheelchair Rugby and previously chaired the Palace for Life Foundation, the charitable arm of Crystal Palace.
That has all been alongside a distinguished business career, including serving as the first independent chair of Grant Thornton UK LLP. He is also chair of two FTSE 250 investment companies.
Warner, who was appointed at a board meeting on Thursday evening, knows he is taking the post at a tough time.
Sussex are operating under strict financial limitations and have already lost the services of Henry Crocombe to Surrey from the end of this season, with more to follow.
Head coach Paul Farbrace, who will step down after the current campaign, has admitted off-field issues are weighing on minds.
And a points deduction across all formats is proving particularly damaging in the race for the Rothesay County Championship title.
Former Sussex batsman Toby Peirce this week informed the club of his intention to step down as an elected board director.
But Tom Clark has signed a contract extension for next season and Warner sees plenty of potential at the club.
He said: "It is a privilege to be appointed chair of Sussex Cricket at such an important moment for the club.
“I recognise there are challenges ahead, but I also see a tremendous opportunity to build on Sussex's many strengths and help shape a successful future.
"Having lived in Sussex for many years, I have admired the club from close quarters and have long believed it has the foundations to achieve even more.
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“The opportunity to work with so many passionate people across the Club and the wider game is what attracted me to this role.
"I want to be an advocate for Sussex Cricket and a strong voice for the club within the game.
“My role is to help create the environment in which our players, staff and volunteers can succeed, our members and fans can feel proud of the club they support, and where we continue building a successful and financially sustainable future together."
Warner was awarded an OBE in 2012 for services to British athletics.
He will formally begin his tenure by meeting staff, players and members at Hove on Friday ahead of the men's and women's Vitality Blast fixtures.
Sussex face Northants at 3pm in the women’s competition and the men face Essex at 7pm.
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