Phil chats to Essex Cricket Chief Executive, Dan Feist
Dan Feist oversees the day-to-day operations of Essex County Cricket Club. He joined the Club in 2012 as Head of Community and Cricket Operations, became Deputy Chief Executive in 2024 and stepped into the Chief Executive role in February 2025.
Phil: Thank you for taking the time to chat with Over the Edge at the major milestone of the Club’s 150th anniversary. What key messages would you like to share with our readers?
Dan: First and foremost, that this is a celebration for the whole community. We want to break down any perception that the County Ground is closed off. It’s actually a huge asset to the city and to the people who live here.
Of course, cricket is our core business, but it isn’t our only business. The ground is a venue with enormous potential beyond matchdays. The local community has shaped our history for 150 years, and we want people to feel welcome — whether that’s for a match, a concert, or simply to enjoy the space. It should feel open, accessible and part of everyday Chelmsford life.
Phil: Tell us about your background and your journey to becoming CEO.
Dan: I’ve been at Essex for 13 years. Before that, I worked in sports development with local authorities, schools and universities. I stopped playing relatively early and moved into coaching, working within cricket at Hampshire and Surrey.
When I joined Essex, I led Community and Cricket Operations. From there, we’ve helped build the Club through some exciting years — championship-winning men’s teams, securing Tier 1 status for our women’s side, hosting international fixtures and two ICC World Cup qualifying competitions. It’s been a period of real growth and progress, and I’m proud to have been part of that journey.
Phil: Which events this year — especially those marking the 150th anniversary — should readers be most excited about?
Dan: The England v India Women’s T20 on 28 May is a huge occasion. India’s women’s side has an extraordinary following worldwide, and it’s fantastic for Chelmsford to host such a fixture.
We’re also looking forward to our Legends match on 24 July, bringing former players back into the middle — that will be special for supporters.
Alongside that, we have the full men’s programme across three formats and the women’s fixtures across two. Whatever your preference — four-day cricket, 50-over, T20 — there’s something for everyone.
And then on 22 August we’re hosting an 80s-themed music night, with Stars of the West End performing the music of Queen. It’s another example of the ground being more than just cricket.
Phil: Many readers are interested in the long-term plans for the County Ground. What can you tell us?
Dan: We have a masterplan that’s beginning to take shape. At its heart will be a two-way facing pavilion. One side will look onto the cricket, celebrating our history and heritage; the other will face Central Park.
Behind it will be a village plaza opening directly into the park via a new bridge. The aim is to create a welcoming, modern hub — open and accessible on matchdays and non-matchdays alike.
One thing I always stress is that this isn’t a distant stadium experience; it’s an arena. You’re incredibly close to the action. That proximity builds connection — especially here, where so many players are local and supporters have watched them develop from junior cricket through to the professional game. Chelmsford is a growing city at the heart of the county. We want the ground to be one of its focal points.
Phil: Who were your cricketing heroes growing up?
Dan: Growing up in the 80s, Graham Gooch was impossible to ignore. I also admired Richard Hadlee, Alec Stewart and Graham Thorpe — players who approached the game with skill and integrity.
But if I’m honest, the person who motivates me most isn’t a famous name. I coached a young lad with Down syndrome who started playing at nine. He simply asked, “Can I play cricket?” From that one conversation, we now have 25 players at my local club playing disability cricket.
He’s now in his thirties and still turns up every week. His enthusiasm and love for the game remind me of why I got involved in the first place. That’s what cricket is really about.
Phil: What are the biggest challenges facing the counties at present?
Dan: Many of the challenges aren’t unique to cricket. Economic instability affects everyone. As part of the sports and entertainment sector, we’re competing for people’s time and discretionary spending.
There’s also calendar congestion — so many events competing locally and nationally. We have to ensure we remain relevant and provide the best possible experience.
Sustainability is key. Costs are rising, and we have to operate responsibly.
The positive is that cricket remains accessible compared with many professional sports. We also have four formats, which gives flexibility. Some supporters may prefer four-day cricket, others T20’s energy and music. Others may stream matches or come for women’s fixtures. That variety is a strength.
Phil: What makes Essex special — to you and to the wider community?
Dan: Essex has a distinct identity. Nationally, not everyone feels attached to a county, but here, people understand what Essex represents.
There’s positivity, entrepreneurship and a resilience — a sense of finding a way when you’re up against it. That tribalism is powerful.
Historically, we’ve often been seen as being on the edge of London, yet we’ve achieved huge success, produced England captains and found ways to compete with bigger counties. Supporters connect with that. They come not just to watch cricket, but to back a team that reflects their values and culture.
Phil: What would you say to readers who have never attended a match?
Dan: Come and see for yourself. The ground is open to the community for much more than matchdays, but when cricket is on, just drop in.
If you prefer, come after tea when entry is free. Have a cup of tea or a drink in the evening sunshine. We often say we’re the best beer garden in town — and there’s some truth in that.
It’s relaxed, welcoming and very close to the action.
Phil: The Club aspires to be the nation’s number one cricket region. What does that look like in practice?
Dan: We have three pillars: on-field success, off-field growth and home-grown inspiration.
Historically, when Essex has succeeded, it’s been driven by local talent inspiring success on the field, which in turn drives growth off it. That cycle is crucial.
Success isn’t measured only in trophies. It’s also about participation numbers, thriving recreational clubs and strong pathways. In recent years, clubs from this region have consistently reached national semi-finals and finals. That depth of strength matters.
Ultimately, success means sustainable growth, strong community engagement and home-grown players coming through to represent Essex at the highest level.
Phil: Securing Tier 1 status for Essex Women is a major step. How will the team continue to develop?
Dan: We’ve built a strong pathway and academy structure. There’s real cultural momentum around women’s sport now, and that’s exciting.
We recently announced changes to the coaching set-up, with Cath Dalton and Nick Browne taking senior roles. Cath played for Essex and Ireland and has coached internationally; Nick came through as an apprentice and professional before moving into coaching. Their journeys reflect what we stand for.
The key is encouraging supporters not just to attend major internationals, but to follow Essex Women regularly — to appreciate the skill, athleticism and competitiveness on display. Again, the closeness to the action makes a difference.
Phil: Finally, what are your hopes for on-field performance in 2026?
Dan: With the men’s squad, we expect to be competitive across all three competitions. Just as importantly, we want to see young, home-grown players learning from experienced professionals and pushing towards international recognition.
For the women’s team, it’s similar: a new leadership programme, strong training culture and steady development, leading to genuine competitiveness.
In sport, there are only so many trophies available, so success also means seeing players fulfil their potential. If we’re developing talent, competing hard and representing Essex in the right way, that’s something to be proud of.
Phil: Thank you, Dan. I really enjoyed our conversation and appreciate you sharing your insights with our readers.