A continuation of the unparalleled success of the Bay of Plenty teams during the current summer is just one of the goals of the new Bay of Plenty Cricket CEO.

Paul Read, who is returning home to the Bay of Plenty, has recently taken over the management reigns at Bay of Plenty Cricket headquarters at Mount Maunganui.

Bay of Plenty Cricket CEO Paul Read.

'I see one of my primary roles as continuing the Bay of Plenty player pathway that has flourished in the last decade,” says Paul.

'There is no luck attached to the Black Cap selection of Graeme Aldridge. Kane Williamson, Trent Boult and Daniel Flynn in the past twelve months. All four are outstanding examples of the Bay of Plenty cricket pathway.”

Bay of Plenty cricket has enjoyed a successful season with five pieces of silverware to spend their winter here, with the senior men's team annexing the Fergus Hickey Rosebowl and the Bay Development side annexing the Basil McBurney Trophy.

Otumoetai Cadets also won the Northern Districts Club championship, while the Bay of Plenty secondary schoolgirls dominated the annual ND competition to annex the championship trophy.

In addition Tauranga Boys' College won the ND Gillette Cup competition to represent the region at the National Finals.

With an MBA from Waikato University Paul comes from a business background including senior positions in public relations, media and Information Technology before turning his skills to the non-profit sector.

Paul's previous position before joining Bay of Plenty Cricket was general manager of business at Surf Life Saving New Zealand.

'I believe that I can bring a strong sense of commercialism to Bay of Plenty Cricket that will build on its position as the strongest minor cricket association in New Zealand.”

'I plan to present business partnerships and opportunities to the commercial world in the Bay of Plenty, whereby both parties prosper.”

While this is Paul's first executive position in sport, he brings a strong passion for sport and outdoor pursuits to his newfound employment.

Selection for the first eleven at Kamo High School continued a lifelong passion for cricket.

His other leisure and sporting pursuits include surfing and skiing, while he is also a keen Bay of Plenty Steamers and All Black fan.