Essex chairman Jason Gallian has announced he will step down after “careful consideration”.

Gallian had taken over on an interim basis last year after his predecessor Anu Mohindru resigned when he was found to have lied about his studies at Oxford University.

Gallian will remain on the county board and the club will appoint a new chairman at its next board meeting.

In an open letter on the club’s website,, external Gallian said: “It hasn’t been an easy decision but I think it’s the right one for the club.”

Gallian’s decision to step down was made at Essex’s AGM on Monday.

Jamas Hodivala KC and Daren Mootoo were also appointed board members at the meeting.

“My greatest strength, passion and commitment has always been cricket,” said Gallian, who finished his playing career at Essex.

“I believe I can make the greatest contribution by focusing my time and energy on supporting our cricket program and, most importantly, the welfare and development of our players.