PCA PRESS RELEASE
Former cricketer draws on previous experience in new career.
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Former Worcestershire and Hampshire man Gareth Andrew recently appeared at the PCA’s Futures Conference, which was held at St George’s Park, Burton upon Trent from 6-7 November, to discuss his successful transition out of the professional game.
Andrew, 35, made over 300 appearances across all formats during his 16-year career, becoming known for his explosive hitting down the order. He retired in late 2016, with 2,994 first-class runs and 238 wickets to his name.
The Somerset-born man has always kept one eye on the future, however, and was soon able to transition into his second professional career. He now works as a Group Marketing Manager at Gen2 Group Ltd, an insurance and financial advisory business with a number of different operations within the organisation.
“I left the game three years ago with a fairly clear plan of what I wanted to do,” Andrew recalls.
“I’ve made a lot of mistakes getting to where I am now, but I’ve learned a lot on the way so hopefully that can stand me in good stead moving forward.
“The PCA have been brilliant. (Personal Development Manager) Lynsey Williams in particular has been great – I’ve worked with her a lot over the years. She’s been there for me every time I’ve needed her and wanted to run things by her, even now.”
As is the case with many professional cricketers going through career transition, Andrew is able to spot many similarities between life as an athlete and life in the business world.
“I’ve enjoyed the challenge. With cricketers, we love winning and doing well. You still get the same from the business – doing well and making sure you keep on achieving.
“There are a lot of similarities between my two careers but, at the same time, it’s a lot different to turning up, being told where to be and what to wear. It’s been great.
“It’s a bit trial and error – getting to experience different things and lots of different environments.”
Three years down the line, Andrew was able to pass on his considerable knowledge and experience to PCA members young and old at the Association’s 2019 Futures Conference. Formerly the Transition Conference, the two-day event gives members the chance to better prepare for life after cricket by listening to professional speakers and honing their professional skills.
“The Futures Conference was really good. The questions flowed and Matthew Wood was excellent in hosting the question and answer session. There’s never any right or wrong way of going through career transition – I think that was the key takeaway from the day.”
Find out more about the PCA’s Personal Development and Welfare Programme.
