Warrington Wolves Community Foundation is proud to mark a significant and emotional moment in its history, as Founder and long-serving Chief Executive Officer Neil Kelly transitions into a new role as Head of Community, Culture and Heritage, with Lee Mitchell stepping into the position of Chief Executive Officer.
This transition represents far more than a change in role - it is a celebration of over two decades of leadership, impact, and unwavering commitment to the Warrington community.
For more than 20 years, Neil Kelly has been at the heart of the Foundation’s journey. From its early beginnings to becoming one of the region’s most respected charities, his vision and passion have helped shape an organisation that now delivers life-changing programmes across education, health and wellbeing, disability, inclusion, and community engagement.
Through that work, thousands of people across Warrington have been supported to live happier, healthier, and more connected lives - creating a legacy that will be felt for generations.
The Foundation’s recently published Social Value Impact Report highlights the scale of that impact, with more than £8.5 million in social value generated in 2025 alone, delivering over £10 of social return for every £1 invested.
These figures reflect not just the reach of the Foundation, but the depth of change created in people’s lives - through improved wellbeing, stronger communities, and greater opportunities for all.
Reflecting on his transition, Neil Kelly said:
“It has been an incredible privilege to serve as CEO of the Foundation for over 20 years. I am immensely proud of everything we have achieved together and the countless lives that have been positively impacted through our work. While stepping back from the CEO role is a significant moment, I am excited to continue contributing in a way that protects and celebrates our heritage, identity, and values for the future.”
Importantly, Neil will remain a central part of the Foundation, continuing to support its work and future direction through his new role, ensuring that the organisation’s values, culture, and connection to the Warrington community remain as strong as ever.
Taking on the role of CEO, Lee Mitchell brings a deep understanding of the organisation and a clear vision for its future. Having played a key role in the Foundation’s recent growth, Lee steps into the position with a commitment to build on the strong foundations already in place.
Lee Mitchell said:
“The Foundation is in a fantastic position thanks to Neil’s leadership and the dedication of our staff, volunteers, trustees, partners, and supporters. It is an honour to take on the role of CEO and to build on everything that has been created over the past 20 years.”
“As we look ahead, we are ambitious about what the next chapter can bring. We will continue to strengthen our work across Warrington, deepen our partnerships, and ensure we remain at the heart of our community - using the power of the badge to create meaningful, lasting change.”
The transition has been carefully planned to ensure continuity, stability, and continued growth. With Neil Kelly remaining closely involved and Lee Mitchell stepping into the CEO role, the Foundation is well positioned to honour its past while embracing the opportunities of the future.
As the Foundation looks ahead to the next 20 years, this moment stands as both a tribute to an extraordinary legacy and a powerful statement of intent - one that reflects pride in what has been achieved and belief in what is still to come.
