Kenyon replaces long-serving Lisa Pursehouse as the club finalizes details of the Trent Rockets deal.
County champions Nottinghamshire have announced the appointment of Richard Kenyon as their new chief executive. Kenyon brings a decade of experience from his prior commercial and communications roles at Everton Football Club.
Kenyon will succeed Lisa Pursehouse, who recently concluded her 14-season tenure, having declared her intention to step down earlier this year. Her final week at the club notably coincided with Nottinghamshire securing their first Championship title since 2010, clinched with a decisive victory over Warwickshire at Trent Bridge in the season`s concluding fixtures.
During his eleven years at Everton, Kenyon held various marketing and communications positions, including a three-and-a-half-year stint as Chief Commercial and Communications Officer. He also served as Chief Executive for the charity `Everton in the Community`. Nottinghamshire highlighted his “instrumental role” in Everton`s significant transition from Goodison Park to the new Hill Dickinson Stadium.
This strategic appointment comes as Nottinghamshire prepares to assume operational control of Trent Rockets within The Hundred competition. An official announcement regarding the finalization of their £40 million agreement with Cain International and Ares Management is anticipated shortly, with Nottinghamshire set to retain a 51% controlling interest in the new joint venture.
Andy Hunt, Nottinghamshire`s Chairman, underscored Kenyon`s extensive experience at Everton as a pivotal factor in his selection. Hunt stated, “His leadership at Everton encompassed vital domains such as commercial strategy, global brand development, major infrastructure projects, and comprehensive multi-stakeholder consultation – all directly pertinent to our club`s present and future ambitions.”
Kenyon expressed his new role as “a tremendous privilege,” adding, “It`s a great credit to the outgoing CEO and her team that I will be joining a club in such an excellent standing. I eagerly anticipate commencing my duties later this year and collaborating closely with the general committee, the executive team, and our members to maximize the forthcoming opportunities for this esteemed club and its various teams.”
Michael Temple, Nottinghamshire`s Commercial Director, will serve as interim chief executive until Kenyon formally takes up his new role in December.
The 2025-26 winter period is witnessing several counties appointing new chief executives. Emma White, with a background in rugby union and horse racing, has replaced Sean Jarvis at Leicestershire. Kent`s Chief Operating Officer, Nimmo Reid, will serve as interim while the club seeks a permanent successor to Simon Storey. Additionally, Pete Fitzboyden of Sussex has resigned after two seasons, citing personal reasons.
