My time with Kent County Cricket Club

Farewell from Carolyn Prosser

I remember my first day with Kent County Cricket Club as if it were yesterday – Monday 19 August 2002 – the same day another new person started (some guy by the name of Steve Waugh)! Before lunchtime on that day I hadn’t a clue who Steve Waugh was. However, having been “thrown in at the deep end” helping to organise that day’s Press and Media Conference I quickly came to realise who I was dealing with! I recall speaking to journalists from all walks of the media, including those representing the BBC and ITV (not to mention all those in attendance from the National and local newspapers). By the time the adrenalin had stopped pumping, I was hooked. It was a wonderful introduction not only to cricket but to one of the game’s living legends too! Since that time I have met many other famous names in my role as PA to the Chief Executive Officer and I am proud to say that I have formed some very close working relationships with one or two.

My role here at the Club has been extremely diverse in nature, depending on the time of year. Like many of my other colleagues behind the scenes, we all “multi-task” to make sure that the ship runs smoothly – it’s not always easy, it’s certainly a challenge, but above all, it’s very rewarding. Especially when you receive an unexpected thank you!!

At the time of writing, I am in the process of getting my office ready for my successor. After 9 very happy years at Kent I shall be leaving the Club on Thursday 28 April. Due to family reasons, I am relocating to Cirencester. Unfortunately, it’s too far to commute.

I wanted to put in writing how sad I am to be going and to say a heartfelt thank you to all of my friends and colleagues within the world of cricket, especially here at the Club (there are too many people to name individually, but you know who you are). We have shared some amazing times together – both rough and smooth. I suppose a highlight that stands out for me was watching the boys lift the T20 Cup in 2007. That was a fantastic day’s cricket and a truly deserved win. I am ever the optimist and wish Paul, Rob and the team every success on the field during 2011 – I will be watching from afar (and I promise to support Kent when we play Gloucester)! Hopefully, I might even get to see a game or two at the St Lawrence on visits back to see my family in Kent!

Finally, I wish my successor good luck. Whoever takes over this role is coming on board at a most exciting time in the Club’s history. Having been involved in the redevelopment plans for the Club since shortly after I joined, I am so envious not to be here to see them come to fruition. Enjoy every minute of your job – it’s hard work, but I cannot think of a better place to be.

Bon Voyage.

Carolyn Prosser

PA to the Chief Executive Officer

20 April 2011

Ps. I am writing this now, because I know that I won’t be able to say any of this next week – cue big box of tissues!!