York Stadium Management Company Wins National Business Turnaround Award

York Stadium Management Company (York SMC) has been named winners of the ‘Community Impact Turnaround of the Year Award 2025’, recognising a remarkable transformation in operations, financial performance and community impact at the LNER Community Stadium over the past four years.

The prestigious national award, presented at the Institute for Turnaround (IFT) Annual Awards Ceremony in London last week, celebrates organisations that demonstrate exceptional leadership, resilience and innovation in the face of significant challenges.

Transforming Operations and Rebuilding Reputation
Since 2021, York Stadium Management Company has faced numerous operational and reputational challenges. In 2023 the company was able to implement a clear strategic reset, building on robust financial management and strengthening partnerships. It redefined its operational model and has positioned the LNER Community Stadium as a sustainable, community-focused venue operator with growing national recognition.

Today, the stadium stands as a proven host of high-profile events – including the recent Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, which welcomed more than 37,000 visitors to York and generated substantial social and economic benefits for the wider community.

A Testament to Competence, Not Capital
Martin Jesper, Executive Director, praised the collective stadium stakeholder effort behind the company’s transformation: “This national recognition is the result of clear thinking, stakeholder collaboration and a disciplined focus on operational delivery by the team of experts behind the scenes.

“Successful turnarounds are never achieved by chance. They come from making tough decisions, professional expertise and a deep-rooted understanding of how to build a viable and sustainable future, rather than speculative investment.

“This award is testament to our many colleagues and partners who have shared our vision and supported our journey.”

Reinvesting in York’s Future
As a not-for-profit enterprise, all revenue generated by York Stadium Management Company is 100% re-invested into the stadium’s infrastructure and facilities, driving continual improvement rather than depleting financial reserves by redistributing funds to private enterprises or individuals.

The reinvestment model has underpinned both the financial stability and the creation of long-term community value, ensuring that the LNER Community Stadium continues to serve as a flagship venue for York and a model for sustainable public–private partnerships that other sports clubs and local authorities are keen to follow.

Looking Ahead: Education & Training Centre
Building on the success of recent years, York SMC are now preparing to launch an Education & Training Centre, offering a unique hybrid learning environment for students and adults aspiring to work behind the scenes in elite sport.

The initiative will provide pathways into careers into business, commercial, and operational management roles within sport – further strengthening the company’s role in developing skills and opportunity within the York community.

Anyone interested in finding out more should call 01904 950950 or email [email protected]