Tributes paid to Celtic Collection CEO

Tributes have been paid to Ian Edwards, chief executive of the Celtic Collection, who has died following a period of illness.

Edwards had worked in the industry for over 30 years, having first joined Celtic Manor Resort in Newport as convention centre manager in 1999.

He returned to the property in 2008, where he served as chief operating officer for six years prior to being promoted to chief executive officer in 2014.

For the past ten years, he has overseen a team of more than 1,200 people, having also led the property during the 2010 Ryder Cup and the 2014 NATO Summit, which was attended by Barack Obama, Angela Merkel and David Cameron.

Edwards was also part of the team that launched the Edinburgh International Convention Centre.

During his career, he has worked as managing director of Mercure Cardiff Holland House Hotel & Spa and general manager at the Hotel Russell London.

Besides his leadership of the Celtic Collection, he also played an active role in the industry as a Master Innholder, fellow of the Institute of Hospitality and business representative on the Western Gateway Partnership Board.

In a statement to press, Simon Gibson, board member of the Celtic Manor Resort, said: “Ian was a figure who left an indelible mark on the hospitality and tourism industries in the United Kingdom. With over 40 years of experience, he was a driving force behind the continuing growth of the Celtic Collection.

“His leadership saw the resort thrive and solidify its place as a premier destination in the UK for golf, business tourism, and high-profile events.”

He added: “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.”

The Celtic Collection operates ten properties in Wales, including in Pembrokeshire, Cardiff, Newport and Magor.