Ken Jacobs is one of the most influential figures in modern cricket administration, with over 40 years of leadership experience shaping cricket’s growth on the international stage. As the long-serving CEO of Cricket Victoria (1977–2007), Jacobs oversaw one of the most remarkable growth periods in Australian cricket history, increasing participation from 100,000 to 185,000 players across 1,100 clubs and boosting revenue from $500,000 to $25 million annually.

Under his leadership, Cricket Victoria:

• Implemented its first-ever strategic plan

• Created a local government and volunteer recognition program now replicated across Australia

• Developed the iconic Boxing Day Test branding program, one of the world’s most famous sporting events

• Successfully hosted international matches at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), including the 1992 Cricket World Cup and countless Test and ODI matches

Jacobs’ expertise was recognized globally when the International Cricket Council (ICC) engaged him as Event Manager for the ICC Cricket World Cup in the Caribbean.

A Career Dedicated to Building Cricket’s Future

After stepping down as CEO, Jacobs launched Ken Jacobs & Associates, a consultancy specializing in strategic planning, event management, sponsorships, and cricket development initiatives. His work includes:

• Designing strategic plans for major sporting bodies

• Negotiating national sponsorship agreements and equipment partnerships for cricket clubs and associations

• Consulting for leading sports travel companies and T20 competition organizers

• Guiding cricket organizations on governance, facility planning, and community engagement

Champion for Women’s Cricket

Ken is also a founding director of Cricket Without Borders (CWOB), an organization dedicated to empowering young women through cricket. CWOB has hosted international tours, community outreach programs, and tournaments across Australia, the Pacific, and Asia, even earning recognition from global dignitaries like the Queen Mother of Bhutan.

Mentor to the Global Cricket Industry

Since 2009, Ken has been a lead mentor for SMWW’s Cricket Management & Business Course, where he has personally guided hundreds of students into meaningful cricket careers. His alumni now work for international cricket boards, leagues, franchises, and academies.

Notable success stories include:

• Sophie McIlwain – The world’s first certified female cricket agent

• Bharath V. Rao – Founder of Games Unlimited India

• Dwain Gill – Board Member of Cricket West Indies, President of the Windward Islands Cricket Board

• Nadia Gruny – Former USA Women’s National Cricketer, now Board Member of USA Cricket

Jacobs’ mentorship is described by graduates as “career-changing”—he not only teaches the business of cricket but connects students to real decision-makers, helping them land jobs and build global networks.

Ongoing Leadership & Roles

Ken continues to serve in leadership positions across cricket and sports organizations:

• Director, Global-ISE-AU – Supporting sport strategy and global education

• Government & Sport Liaison, CLUBMAP – Advising governments and organizations on sports development

• Consultant, Ken Jacobs & Associates – Strategic planning, sponsorship, and governance expert

• Secretary, Kerry Packer Cricket Foundation – Driving cricket initiatives and community outreach

• Advisor to multiple national and franchise cricket boards

Ken’s Vision for Cricket

Ken Jacobs’ career represents the perfect blend of operational expertise, strategic vision, and grassroots development passion. Whether managing international tournaments, growing women’s cricket, or guiding future executives through SMWW, Ken has dedicated his life to building cricket into a truly global game.

“My greatest satisfaction is seeing SMWW graduates achieving their goals—whether that’s starting their own cricket academy, working for a national board, or becoming agents representing top players. This course is more than education; it’s a gateway to a lifelong career in cricket.”

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