Celtic Manor Resort renames conference centre in memory of late chief executive

Celtic Manor Resort has renamed its meetings and events facilities to celebrate the memory of the venue’s long-serving chief executive officer Ian Edwards who died last month.

Edwards first joined Celtic Manor Resort in Newport as convention centre manager in 1999, before returning 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.

He died in October 2024 following a period of illness.

At the time of his death Simon Gibson, board member of the Celtic Manor Resort, said that Edwards was “a driving force behind the continuing growth of the Celtic Collection” and that he had “left an indelible mark on the hospitality and tourism industries in the United Kingdom.”

In tribute to the part Edwards played in attracting and delivering a variety of successful events to the resort, the Ian Edwards Conference Centre was officially opened on 22 November. At a ceremony to mark its opening more than 300 people heard tributes from family members and colleagues, as well as video messages from First Minister of Wales, Eluned Morgan, and Celtic Manor resort chairman Sir Terry Matthews.

A wall plaque dedicated to Edward’s memory was also unveiled by his wife Estelle Edwards and Celtic Manor Resort director Simon Gibson.

Gibson said: “From shaping team rooms for the competing golfers at the 2010 Ryder Cup to helping create the 2014 NATO Summit debating chamber, Ian oversaw some incredible event activity in this venue and it is entirely fitting that his name now welcomes guests to the Ian Edwards Conference Centre.

“This will be an excellent way for members of the team that he led with such distinction, as well as the guests and clients using the conference centre, to remember Ian and ensure that his legacy continues to burn bright in events staged at the Celtic Manor Resort.

“Ian was an inspirational business leader whose vision and dedication elevated the Celtic Manor Resort to global excellence. His impact reached far beyond his achievements with the Celtic Collection and ICC Wales and he leaves an indelible mark on the hospitality, tourism and events industries in the United Kingdom.”