Business turnaround specialist Ian Pegler has signed a contract to stay with Stoneleigh Park for a further 12 months.
Pegler is nine months into the job of implementing a new strategic growth plan.
The former Little Chef executive turned a first quarter loss into a
profit, with sales up 20 per cent and annual profits growing by a factor
of 10 on the previous year. His tactics have included a rebrand,
overhaul of the website and enlisting staff to act as painters and
decorators to spruce up the main events hall.
“It has been a successful year for Stoneleigh Park both in the way the
business has been transformed and the speed with which it has been done.
The success is testament to the hugely dedicated and talented team we
have in place.
“I’m delighted the Board decided to extend my contract so that we can
capitalize on both the strong sales and profit gains we’ve made and the
successful changes implemented across the business.
“Our growth plans for the remainder of 2012 will focus on continuing to
improve the venue’s facilities so we can further diversify into new
markets and sectors.”
The former Royal Agricultural Show venue is set in 800 acres of
Warwickshire countryside and caters for up to 2,000 conference
delegates. There are two purpose-built equine arenas and exhibition
halls. Its Royal Pavilion hosts wedding receptions.
Pegler tells CN, however, occupancy “is still nowhere near where it
should be”, saying the problem he faced nine months ago included “poor
motivation, no money and lack of direction”.
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