PFA Conversations: Ipswich Town FC CEO, Mark Ashton

Mark Ashton began his journey with the same dream as many other children: to become a professional footballer. He was a scholar at West Bromwich Albion and even made his first-team debut against Real Madrid in America. However, despite this promising start, he was eventually released from the club. But rather than giving up on football altogether, Ashton took on various roles within the community, academy, and commercial aspects of the same club that released him. His determination paid off, as he became the CEO of Watford at the age of 30.

Now, at Ipswich, Ashton has described himself as a "builder" with the challenge of restoring the club to the levels it used to occupy. Steeped in the legacy of Sir Alf Ramsey and Sir Bobby Robson, the historic club, led by Mark Asthon as CEO, Kiaran McKenna as manager, and an American Ownership group, the club is entering a new era guided by the club’s mantra: “Running towards Adversity.” 

In a candid conversation with Markus Fjortoft (@markusfjortoft), Ashton shares his belief that community is at the heart of football and outlines the key building blocks necessary to generate support from both the team and the wider community. He also reflects on the challenges he faced when he was forced to transition into a new career at the age of 18, what he looks for in a manager, how he defines success when running a football club, and the lessons he has learned throughout his career. Finally, he offers advice for aspiring executives who hope to follow in his footsteps.

Mark Ashton was supported by the PFA through the scholar education program. After his release from WBA, he had already obtained his B Tech qualification.

Click the link below for PFA Conversations (audio):
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast...
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5EKb...

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