Jacques Faul is a South African sports administrator recognised for his contributions to cricket management and governance. He has served in key leadership positions, including as the acting CEO of Cricket South Africa (CSA) and CEO of the Titans cricket franchise.

Early Life and Education

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Faul was raised in Klerksdorp, South Africa. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) from North-West University (NWU), where his research focused on stakeholder management strategies during mega-events. He also earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the Management College of South Africa (MANCOSA), with his thesis exploring the impact of multinational competitions on domestic stadium sponsorship in cricket.[1]

In addition to his degrees, Faul completed an Executive Certificate in Major Event Management from the University of Technology Sydney and holds certifications in Labour Law and Sports Law from the University of Johannesburg and NWU.[2]

Career in Cricket Administration

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North West Cricket Union Faul began his career in sports administration as the Marketing and Events Manager at the North West Cricket Union, later becoming the CEO. During his tenure, he prioritised financial stability and grassroots development, ensuring the union's sustained growth.[3]

Titans Cricket

In 2013, Faul was appointed as CEO of Titans Cricket, a prominent domestic cricket franchise. Under his leadership, the team won multiple domestic championships. He implemented strategic initiatives to enhance sponsorship acquisition, player development, and operational excellence, establishing the Titans as one of South Africa's leading cricket franchises.[4]

Cricket South Africa Acting CEO (2012–2013)

Faul was first appointed acting CEO of Cricket South Africa (CSA) in 2012 after a financial mismanagement scandal involving the previous CEO, Gerald Majola. His focus was on restoring organisational stability and improving CSA's governance.[5]

Acting CEO (2019–2020)

In 2019, Faul returned as acting CEO during another crisis at CSA, taking measures to address governance issues, rebuild stakeholder confidence, and resolve financial instability. He stepped down in August 2020, citing persistent governance challenges.[6]

Academic Contributions

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Faul is actively involved in academic programmes at North-West University Business School, where he serves as a Professor of Practice. He co-developed the Mastery in Global Event Management Short Learning Programme, which equips students with skills for managing large-scale events. Faul regularly lectures on sports law, stakeholder management, and crisis communication.[7]

Publications

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In 2024, Faul authored the book "Crisis Management in Sport", which offers practical strategies for navigating organisational crises. The book is widely referenced in sports management literature.[8]

Advocacy and Social Initiatives

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Faul has been involved in initiatives to promote diversity and inclusivity in cricket. He has publicly supported the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement and acknowledged CSA’s challenges in transformation during the Social Justice and Nation Building hearings.[9]

Awards and Recognitions

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1. Sports Administrator of the Year (2013) – South African Sports Awards 2. Lifetime Achievement Award (2022) – Gauteng Sports Confederation 3. Special Recognition Award (2024) – International Cricket Council (ICC)[10]

Personal Life

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Faul is married, and the couple has a son. He maintains a relatively private personal life, balancing his family commitments with his professional responsibilities. He is also an avid reader and motivational speaker, sharing insights on leadership and crisis management.[11]

References

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  1. ^ "Jacques Faul Biography".
  2. ^ "NWU Celebrates Prominent Alumni".
  3. ^ "Jacques Faul Resigns as CSA Acting CEO".
  4. ^ "About Titans Cricket".
  5. ^ "CSA's Former Acting CEO Reflects on Governance Challenges".
  6. ^ "Explainer: CSA's Crisis under Jacques Faul".
  7. ^ https://nwubusinessschool.co.za/short-courses/. {{cite web}}: Missing or empty |title= (help)
  8. ^ "Crisis Management in Sport".
  9. ^ "CSA Supports Black Lives Matter".
  10. ^ "Recognition for Jacques Faul".
  11. ^ "Jacques Faul Biography".