Ipswich Town Chairman Mark Ashton Affirms Long-Term Commitment and Enjoyment of Role

Mark Ashton has stated he is “thoroughly enjoying” his current position as Ipswich Town chairman, having assumed the role subsequent to Mike O’Leary’s retirement earlier this summer. Ashton initially joined the club as chief executive in July 2021, shortly after owners ORG finalized their acquisition of Portman Road, and subsequently appointed Kieran McKenna as manager in December 2021. During an interview on BBC Radio Suffolk’s The Blue Hour, Ashton commented on his new responsibilities, stating: “It’s not that much difference, to be honest with you. I could still do with a few more hours in the day, a few more days in the week.” He further expressed: “I’m thoroughly enjoying it. This place has become a real home-from-home for me. I love the town, the county, the people and most importantly this amazing football club.” When questioned about whether his chairmanship was intended as a long-term appointment or if the club was seeking an external candidate, Ashton responded: “No, it is long-term. It is an executive management team that run the football club.” He elaborated, saying: “Things haven’t really changed that much since I took over. I worked with Mike O’Leary for many years, he is a first-class guy but it was just a natural progression in the workload that I was doing and the way we were operating and running the club.” Ashton concluded by emphasizing his deep commitment: “Those who know me know that I care passionately about this football club. I will give my last breath defending this football club.”