The chief executive officer of Celtic Manor Resort and ICC
Wales Ian Edwards has passed away following a period of illness, with his loved ones by his side.
With more than 40 years of experience, he was a driving force in
growing the Celtic Manor Resort into one of Europe’s premier destinations for
golf, leisure, business and high-profile events, and the recent expansion of
The Celtic Collection into Wales’s largest independent hotel group.
Under Edwards' guidance, the Celtic Manor Resort hosted global
events like the 2010 Ryder Cup, one of the most prestigious sporting events in
the world, and the 2014 NATO Summit. His work with ICC Wales further
demonstrated his passion for boosting business tourism, creating a world-class
venue that has brought in international conferences and events, providing
lasting economic benefits for the region, Wales and the UK.
Leading the tributes, Simon Gibson, CBE, board member of Celtic
Manor Resort, said: “Ian Edwards will be remembered as a visionary leader whose
contributions to the hospitality sector have left a lasting legacy in Wales and
beyond. His dedication, warmth, and innovative spirit will continue to inspire
the industry for years to come.
“His leadership and delivery of large-scale projects, such as
the Ryder Cup and the NATO Summit, stand as a testament to his strategic vision
and his ability to elevate Wales globally. Growing Celtic Manor Resort into a
collection of successful hotels was another hallmark of his remarkable career,
reinforcing his reputation as one of the leading figures in the UK hospitality
industry.
“Ian was known not just for his business acumen but also for his
people-centred leadership. He often credited his successes to the hardworking
teams he led, fostering an environment of innovation and excellence in the
sector. His vision extended beyond business, as he also revitalised the local
community through his role in initiatives such as the ReNewport Task Force and
the Business in the Community Place Programme.
“Ian will be greatly missed by colleagues and friends, and we
extend our heartfelt sympathies to his family.”
Edwards was a Master Innholder and a Fellow of the Institute of
Hospitality. He served on the Boards of Visit Britain and the Western Gateway.
