Mark Kelly, the chair of Ashton Gate Stadium and chief executive of Bristol's Sporting Quarter, is stepping down after more than a decade with the Bristol Sport group. Kelly, a former hotel manager, joined the leadership team in 2015, shortly after it was decided that Ashton Gate—the home of Bristol City FC and Bristol Bears Rugby Club—would not be able to expand into Ashton Vale.
Initially hired as managing director of Ashton Gate, Kelly has since held multiple roles across the Lansdown Family's interests, including chief executive of Bristol Sport, chief executive of Ashton Gate, managing director of Mashatu Investments in Durban, South Africa, and director of global property investments for Pula.
Transformation into a leading venue
During his tenure, Kelly oversaw the £50 million redevelopment of the stadium alongside Martin Griffiths, transforming it into an internationally recognised, multi-use venue. He also launched Kaelo Destinations, the Lansdown family's exclusive African safari business, and acquired and delivered phase one of La Grande Mare golf and country club in the Channel Islands.
Reflecting on his time, Kelly said: "It is only when you have the opportunity to look back and reflect, you realise how much a part of your life it has become. I will miss the amazing team of people that work here, some of whom have been with me since day one. However, now is the right time for me to embark on a new challenge."
Key achievements and community impact
Kelly highlighted the opening of the Lansdown Stand in 2016, hosting sell-out crowds for Bristol City, Bristol Bears, Red Roses, Lionesses, and concerts, as well as the Women's Rugby World Cup. He also noted the stadium's transformation into the UK's first super-vaccine centre during the Covid pandemic.
"None of that would have been possible without the incredible team of dedicated people that work alongside me. Every day that I walk into Ashton Gate I am aware of how vital a role it plays within its community," he added. "It has been both a privilege and an honour to lead the stadium."
Kelly resigned in June to explore other opportunities and will leave his post early next month. Charlie Boss will combine the leadership of Ashton Gate Stadium with his role as Bristol City chief executive.
Leadership transitions and future outlook
Bristol Sport founder Steve Lansdown CBE said he was "sorry" to see Kelly leave but understood "his desire for a new challenge." He added: "We thank him for all his hard work over the years and wish him all the best for the future."
Jon Lansdown, Ashton Gate director and chairman of Bristol Sport, said: "Mark has been instrumental in the development of our sporting group. I would personally like to thank him, for the dedication and service he has shown throughout the years. He has laid excellent foundations for us to continue the stadium's trajectory of growth as one of the leading multi-sport and entertainment venues in the country."
Kelly said he is proud of what has been achieved and that the stadium has strong foundations for continued growth under Charlie Boss and the committed team at Ashton Gate, its clubs, and charities.
