Central Gauteng Lions elevates leadership and governance framework

The CGL Board of Directors and Management Executive members recently participated in a governance leadership session at the DP World Wanderers Stadium, facilitated by globally recognised corporate governance expert and author of the King Reports on Corporate Governance, Professor Mervyn King.

The 2026 Board Evaluation highlighted a highly collaborative leadership group that values organisational diversity and continues to champion the growth and promotion of cricket. While the evaluation reaffirmed strong alignment around the Board’s core mandate, it also identified a progressive shift toward enhanced strategic oversight, stronger governance capability, and reduced involvement in day-to-day operations.

In response, Professor King led an intensive and collaborative governance session, focusing on strengthening governance principles, ethical leadership, accountability, sustainability and strategic oversight across the organisation. Attendees included Professor Mervyn King; Dr Earl Glennistor, Chairperson of the CGL Board; Maya Makanjee, Lead Independent Director; and Jono Leaf-Wright, Lions Cricket CEO.

Dr Earl Glennistor expressed his appreciation to Professor King, Chair Emeritus of the King Committee on Corporate Governance in South Africa and author of the King I, II, III and IV Reports.

“We were honoured to host internationally recognised governance and sustainability authority Professor Mervyn King in our renowned Long Room. Our discussions centred around governance best practices, stakeholder accountability, responsible leadership, sustainability and the future of corporate governance. As part of the Union’s ongoing commitment to professional development, the Central Gauteng Lions Board has implemented a proactive training workplan aimed at strengthening corporate governance and enhancing organisational health and we are well-pleased with our efforts and attention to such matters.”

Leaf-Wright echoed Dr Glenister’s thanks, saying that long term organisational growth and success is key.

“In 2020, our collective commitment was that every business decision be guided by three strategic principles, namely ‘C’ for Choices; ‘G’ for Governance and ‘L’ for Longevity. The above continues to be our guiding principles today, serving as our strategic pillar and ensuring we continue to focus on driving trust with our stakeholders. At CGL, we are actively future-proofing our leadership by building on foundational governance initiatives that reinforce director independence, clearly defining the roles of the Board, Management and Members Council, and strengthening executive accountability. These initiatives form part of CGL’s broader commitment to governance excellence, ethical leadership, sustainability and long-term organisational success.”

This high-level intervention forms part of a comprehensive year-long governance and leadership development programme designed to support the Board in fulfilling its fiduciary responsibilities while enhancing overall leadership effectiveness.

At Central Gauteng Lions, governance extends beyond regulatory compliance, with a deliberate focus on long-term value creation, ethical leadership, stakeholder inclusivity, sustainability and strategic vision.