Jamie Clifford appointed Honorary Life Member

Outgoing Kent CEO Jamie Clifford has been appointed to Honorary Life Membership of the Club in recognition of his service.

Mr Clifford, who was appointed in the role in 2010 and previously served as cricket development director for Kent Cricket Board from 2002.

He has overseen a great improvement in the club’s financial position and the £10 million redevelopment of The Spitfire Ground, St Lawrence, renamed in 2013 thanks to a partnership with major sponsors Shepherd Neame.

The club’s second home of The County Ground, Beckenham also now boasts a 2,000-seater stand, indoor school and function centre.

He joins, amongst others, HRH Duke of Edinburgh, patron HRH Duke of Kent, former chairman George Kennedy, former President Lady Kingsdown and former players Alan Knott, Derek Ufton and Derek Underwood in receiving the rare honour.

Mr Clifford said: “Honorary Life Memberships have been bestowed on very significant contributors in the club’s history. I never once expected such a great honour. It really has been nothing other than a great privilege to serve the club.

“I hoped to leave the club in a better state than when I took up my post with a sustainable future and an experienced, professional staff to lead the club forward. I believe that has been achieved.

“As a lifelong Kent supporter, I look forward to attending as Kent fixtures in the future and maintaining many of the very special friendships that started during my time at the club.”

Chairman Simon Philip said: “The Committee unanimously agreed to this award in recognition of the important role Jamie has played at a crossroads in the club’s history.

“Of particular merit has been the style in which he performed his duties, the regular occasions when he went the extra mile and the way he has treated all with whom he has had dealings.

“Alongside my predecessor George Kennedy, he helped steer the Club through a tricky period with financial pressures constantly distracting from our on-field ambitions.

“He leaves the Club in a healthier position on and off the pitch. We wish him all the best in his new role at the MCC and look forward to welcoming him back as a supporter.”

Mr Clifford will be succeeded by current operations director Ben Green who takes charge on Monday 5 February.