Strengthening ties between academia and sport management through Yorkshire Cricket Foundation

Leveraging her extensive experience in the sports management industry and her applied research and teaching, Dr Jo Clarke serves as a trustee for the Yorkshire Cricket Foundation (YCF). The YCF, the charitable arm of the Yorkshire County Cricket Club (YCCC), uses the influence of cricket to make a positive impact on communities across Yorkshire. In this role, Dr. Clarke brings a wealth of expertise to the YCF board, collaborating with fellow trustees to shape the charity’s strategic direction, policies, and resource allocation, ensuring full compliance with charity law.

“Staying connected to the sports sector is essential for me as an academic,” said Dr Clarke. “My work with the Yorkshire Cricket Foundation allows me to maintain a valuable link to the industry, which not only enhances my research but also provides real-world insights for my students.” Her involvement with YCF helps integrate practical perspectives on governance, globalization, and contemporary issues in sport management teaching and assessment.

Jo’s research focuses on business models for charitable foundations and corporate social responsibility in sport, presenting at European association conferences and working with regional and national organizations such as YCCC, the Premier League Charitable Fund, and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). Through these collaborations, Dr Clarke stays at the forefront of emerging trends and best practices in sports governance, further enhancing her teaching and industry impact.