Ipswich Chairman, Mike O'Leary Steps Down



The Club’s Chairman Mike O’Leary is today announcing his retirement.

Mike became chairman in April 2021 following the takeover of ITFC by Gamechanger 20 Ltd.

Mike said: “I have thought very carefully about this for some time. I have consulted with Ed Schwartz, our major shareholder, and advised him that after three and a half years in post, I would like to step down and retire. There is no better time to do so than when the Club is in such great shape.”

“As I approach my 72nd birthday, I know that this is the right decision. My family home is in Worcestershire, some 200 miles from Portman Road. The considerable travel involved in continuing to serve as Chairman has been taking its toll.”

“Reaching the Premier League was always the dream when I became Chairman in 2021, but I never dared to believe that it would happen so quickly. I have a strong sense of ‘mission accomplished’ as I prepare to say my farewells.”

CEO Mark Ashton said: “Mike is, and will always continue to be, a long-term friend. He was instrumental in the acquisition of the Club, and has been an amazing support to me over many years - in particular during the past three years at Ipswich Town Football Club. I’ll be forever grateful to him for that.”

Ed Schwartz added: “We all owe an enormous debt of gratitude to Mike. It was his tireless work that got the takeover across the line in 2021. He has not only been a great colleague, but also a true friend, and he knows that there will always be a very warm welcome for him at Portman Road.”

Following Mike's retirement, Mark Ashton will now assume the role of Chairman in addition to his current position as Chief Executive Officer.

The Club would like to thank Mike for everything he has done during his time at Portman Road.

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