Nick Rider steps down as ESR Chief Executive after 11 years at the helm
By LEE HORTON – Squash Mad Chief Reporter
England Squash & Racketball Chief Executive Nick Rider is stepping down from his role after 11 years.
Rider, who is leaving to pursue new professional opportunities, has led the organisation through a time of growth for the sports at both grassroots and elite level.
During this time ESR has launched a number of successful participation initiatives and developed strong relationships with key partners in the market such as Local Authorities, Commercial Operators and Universities.
Professional squash, meanwhile, has flourished thanks to the achievements of English players such as World No.1 Nick Matthew and World No.2 Laura Massaro, both of whom are expected to be medal hopes for England at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow this summer.
ESR Operations Director Jim Lord will take on many of Rider’s responsibilities until a longer term replacement is found.
Nick Rider said: “I have decided that, after 11 years’ service with ESR, it is time for me to seek new challenges and I shall shortly be leaving the organisation. Working in sport is something I have always enjoyed hugely and it has been a privilege to work for the governing body through very exciting times.
“Seeing the excitement in the eyes of young children playing for the first time through to witnessing great international triumphs of our wonderful elite players are experiences that I won’t forget. I’m very grateful for all the support and assistance I’ve received in my time here and to share with so many of you the passion we have for what we do.”
Peter Goldson, Chairman ESR, said: “I would like to pay tribute to Nick’s longstanding commitment to England Squash & Racketball and indeed the wider sport. He joined England Squash when it was in severe financial difficulties and has been instrumental in guiding us to a much improved position.
“His courteous demeanor and easy-going nature often masked the skill with which he managed the complex and sometimes challenging issues that faced him and ESR from time to time. We wish him and his family well for the future.”
News of Rider’s departure follows a demand by Sport England that ESR demonstrates “a rapid and significant improvement in leadership” following a cut in funding caused by a failure to hit participation targets.