Rachel Lewis named first female chair of Essex

Rachel Lewis has been named the first female chair of Essex. The former Olympian succeeds Jason Gallian, who had been in the role on an interim basis; the appointment was recorded on 28 July 2026.

Her selection marks the first occasion a woman has been appointed to the chair at Essex. Lewis is identified as a former Olympian. Jason Gallian had been acting in the position on an interim basis prior to this change. The timing of the appointment is listed as 28 July 2026.

The move places Lewis in the organisation's top governance role at Essex.

She assumes the responsibilities associated with the chairmanship following Gallian's interim spell.

Jason Gallian had served temporarily in the post before Lewis's appointment.

Lewis is described in reporting as a former Olympian.

The appointment is dated 28 July 2026 in the published record.

Rachel Lewis's elevation to chair represents a first for Essex and brings an end to Jason Gallian's interim stewardship. The leadership change is recorded as having occurred on 28 July 2026.