Cricket ACT has appointed Anthony Ilott as its new Chief Executive Officer, with the experienced strategy and government relations executive to begin the role on July 27.
Ilott joins Cricket ACT from Visit Victoria, where he is Director of Strategy and Planning, leading organisational strategy, corporate planning and performance frameworks.
His appointment follows the departure of Olivia Thornton, who left Cricket ACT to take up the role of CEO at Tennis NSW after what the organisation described as a transformative period for the game in the ACT.
Ilott has held senior roles across Visit Victoria, the Victorian Government, Cricket Victoria and Crown Melbourne, with experience spanning strategy, governance, infrastructure, economic recovery programs and stakeholder engagement.
During his time at Cricket Victoria, he worked in government relations and infrastructure engagement, helping build partnerships and support the development of cricket facilities and programs.
Cricket ACT Chair Greg Boorer said Ilott’s experience across sport, government and major organisations made him well-suited to lead the organisation.
“Anthony is a highly accomplished leader with a deep understanding of the intersection between sport, government and community,” Boorer said.
“Anthony has demonstrated a consistent ability to deliver complex strategic outcomes, secure significant investment, and build strong, enduring stakeholder relationships.”
Boorer said Ilott’s direct experience in cricket, combined with his record in organisational transformation, would support Cricket ACT’s next phase of growth.
“This positions Cricket ACT exceptionally well as we continue to expand participation, strengthen pathways, and enhance the role cricket plays across the ACT community,” he said.
“We are focused on ensuring cricket continues to thrive at all levels, from grassroots participation through to high performance, and Anthony’s leadership, vision and collaborative approach will be critical in achieving this.”
Ilott said he was honoured to take on the role and excited to help grow cricket across the region.
“Cricket has a unique ability to bring people together, and I am passionate about building on the strong foundations already in place,” Ilott said.
“My focus will be on strengthening participation across all levels of the game, supporting clubs and volunteers, enhancing pathways for players, and ensuring cricket remains inclusive, accessible and sustainable for future generations.”
He said collaboration with Cricket Australia, local clubs, government and community partners would be central to the organisation’s success.
“I look forward to working with Cricket Australia, local clubs, government and community partners to unlock new opportunities, invest in facilities and programs, and further elevate cricket’s impact across the ACT,” he said.
Cricket ACT said the appointment reflected its focus on governance, strategic growth and delivering better outcomes for players, clubs and the wider community.
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