THE Herefordshire FA has appointed Craig Oakley as new chief executive officer.

The current Worcestershire Cricket Foundation executive director will join the Herefordshire FA (HFA) on September 9.

“The HFA is delighted to announce that, following a comprehensive recruitment process, Craig Oakley will be joining as CEO in September, following the departure of current CEO Alan Darfi in August,” said the county authority in a statement.

Stephen Willmot, HFA Chair, said:  ’We were blown away by the number and quality of applicants for the role.

“From over 30 applicants, Craig stood out as an outstanding candidate right from day one and we are delighted that he has accepted what is a fantastic opportunity.

“Craig brings a wealth of knowledge of how to develop local sport gained from four-year experience leading a very similar organisation.

“Craig is passionate about the benefits of grassroots football and we feel that this, combined with his knowledge and skills of leading a similar sized team and set-up, will ensure that the HFA continues to go from strength to strength.

“Craig joins at a really exciting time for the HFA, with our new four-year strategy recently approved.

“All at the HFA are looking forward to Craig joining, following a comprehensive handover with the outgoing CEO.’’

Craig Oakley, the incoming CEO, added: ‘’I’m hugely passionate about using the power of sport to make a difference in people’s lives and giving opportunities for all.

“I am delighted to be joining HFA in September to both continue and enhance the great work that is already taking place throughout the county.”

The HFA announced in May that Alan Darfi would be stepping down from the role after four years.

Darfi will leave his role this month to start a new job as Senior Discipline Manager at the central FA.

The Herefordshire FA state that the last four years have been “transformational” for the organisation and placed on record their thanks to Darfi.

For more details email info@herefordshirefa.com