Mike O’Leary announces retirement as Mark Ashton assumes role of Ipswich Town chairman

Mike O’Leary has stepped down from his position as chairman of Ipswich Town with the announcement of his retirement, as CEO Mark Ashton assumes his role.

The 71-year-old became the Blues’ chairman in April 2021 following the takeover by Gamechanger 20 Ltd.

Ashton will also continue his role as CEO of the club.

Speaking to the club’s website, O’Leary 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.”

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.”

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.”