20 Questions for 20 Years: Interview with Kevin Hudson, Chairman of Stadium Support Services
20 Questions for 20 Years: Interview with Kevin Hudson, Chairman of Stadium Support Services
Celebrating 20 Years of Progress and Partnerships
- Kevin, congratulations on reaching the 20-year milestone! How would you reflect on the journey so far?
Thank you! It’s hard to believe it’s been 20 years. The journey has been incredible—starting as a small family business and growing into a national provider. What stands out most is the strong relationships we’ve built with our clients. Whether in sports venues or commercial properties, it’s been rewarding knowing they trust us to deliver consistently. - With a name like Stadium Support Services, some people might think you only work within stadiums.
We did focus solely on stadiums for the first 10 years. But over the last decade, we’ve expanded into commercial properties, bringing our expertise in fast mobilisation and first-time fixes to that sector as well. - Are there any differences between stadium clients and commercial property clients?Not really. Both need roof maintenance, refurbishments, and repairs. The main difference is that one has a pitch in the middle, and the other has courtyards! No matter the venue, our ethos is the same: solve the issue as quickly as possible so that the show can go on.
- Stadium Support Services is known for its responsiveness. How do you maintain that, especially on a national scale? Agility is key. With offices in London, Bristol, Birmingham, and Leeds, we can respond quickly to emergencies. Our teams are empowered to make decisions on site, this removes the red tape that can lead to blocks, so our customers know that every project will run seamlessly without delays.
- Sustainability has become a major focus for your company. Why is that important to you?
Sustainability is more important than ever. We have a responsibility to operate responsibly for both our clients and the environment. Bringing on a Head of Sustainability has helped us embed these practices. Partnering with organisations like BASIS allows us to make a positive impact, which we’re passionate about. - You’re also actively involved in supporting charities like Sport in Mind. What drives that commitment?
Giving back is a core part of our ethos. Supporting mental health through sport with organisations like Sport in Mind has real meaning. It feels great to be part of something larger than ourselves, especially when it involves promoting well-being through sport. - What are your aspirations for Stadium Support Services moving forward? To keep building on our foundation of trust and reliability. We just returned from a team-building trip in Thailand, which was great for strengthening bonds—and enjoying some fishing! Balancing work and team camaraderie reminds us of the importance of teamwork and work-life balance.
- What does reaching 20 years mean to you personally and for the company?
We started in my kitchen, and now we have offices nationwide. It’s a proud milestone that shows how far we’ve come. - Can you share how Stadium Support Services started? What inspired you to launch the company? I saw a gap in the market for fast solutions with a focus on first-time fixes. Our ethos is that everyone in the business understands the need for speed and efficiency.
- What were some of the biggest challenges you faced in the early days? Cash flow is always a challenge for startups. Those early lessons helped shape how we work with suppliers—we make a point of paying early to build solid partnerships.
- Looking back, what are you most proud of?
I’m incredibly proud of the team. Scott, Joe, and Laura have been absolutely instrumental to our success, consistently driving the business forward with their commitment, expertise, and unwavering dedication. Their hard work has been key to where we are today. I’m also really proud of the partnerships we’ve developed with clubs like QPR, MK Dons, and Bradford City AFC, as well as over 20 other teams. A standout moment for me was having a box at the Rugby World Cup final at Twickenham – it was a true celebration of the team’s collective efforts and a fantastic way to acknowledge all that we’ve achieved together. - How would you describe the culture at Stadium Support Services?
We’re a family, through and through. Everyone is part of the SSS family, even though we don’t all share the same last name. - Which projects have required the biggest staff deployments? Farnborough Airshow without a doubt! We had 150 cleaners on a 700-acre site daily, it was massive. It required months of planning.
- What’s the most prestigious venue you’ve worked at?
That’s tough! We’ve worked at places like the American Embassy and Whitehall, but working at Buckingham Palace providing the event infrastructure for the Queen’s summer parties, is definitely a highlight. - What’s the fastest turnaround project you’ve done?
I would say the Birmingham City FC refurbishment. We completed seven major areas in just three weeks, from quote to completion. - How do you maintain strong relationships with clients and partners?
We’re fortunate that our clients are great individuals. Working in sports allows us to bond over events and we often strengthen relationships while enjoying the games together. - How important is your team in the company’s success?
The team is everything. We operate in a fast-paced industry with plenty of curveballs and we’re lucky to have the best minds and trades, enabling us to be flexible and deliver top-quality work. - How does Stadium Support Services give back to the community? We are committed to giving back and making a positive impact in our community. Through our partnership with Sport in Mind, we support mental health by promoting well-being through sports. By sponsoring local sports clubs, grassroots football teams, and our partner clubs, we’re able to provide the resources they need to grow, thrive, and succeed. Our goal is to champion both physical and mental well-being through the power of sport.
- Can you share a surprising fact about the company?
In the past, we managed events, including ice rinks, music festivals and street parties. About eight years ago, we decided to focus entirely on facilities management and rapid maintenance to support our growth. - What are the three key elements that have contributed to the business’s success?
It’s simple:- Don’t over-promise and never let anyone down.
- Think outside the box—there’s always a solution.
- Treat your staff and suppliers well; they, in turn, look after your clients.
Kevin Hudson
Chairman
