Phil Kirk’s death at the age of 59 in August 2025 sent shock waves rippling through both the business community and the football world. Nevertheless, whilst he will be missed many will be wondering: what did he actually achieve in life and, in particular, how wealthy was he? From co-founding Chrysaor and moving to Harbour Energy, to investing with enthusiasm in Chesterfield FC, Kirk built wealth through steady growth. His estimated wealth of £45–£60 million at the time of his death is about more than materialistic success, it is a tale of aspiration, vision and commitment that will continue to reverberate. In this article we outline the way he made his wealth, year-by-year, consider his principal wealth, and reflect on the legacy he leaves.
Who Is Phil Kirk?
Phil Kirk was an established British businessman, and energy executive, and part-owner of a football club. He made his name in the UK energy sector emphatically as a co-founder of Chrysaor and subsequently President & CEO Europe of Harbour Energy. He gained the respect of football fans, too, when he and his brother Ashley became part-owners of Chesterfield FC.
Kirk was recognized not just for his business contributions but his belief in community-driven sports. He died suddenly in August 2025, leaving behind mourning communities of both the energy sector as well as football entrenched in Kirk's vision of leadership.
Phil Kirk Biography
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Phil Kirk Net Worth in 2025: Latest Estimate
Phil Kirk's net worth was estimated between £45 million–£60 million in 2025. Although he has not declared an official figure for public consumption, this figure was based on registered shareholdings and investments. His most significant financial connection was with Harbour Energy, as it is estimated he had 1.4% of this company in his portfolio. This alone could have been valued at about £46m–£55m because the market value for Harbour was between £3.3–£3.9 billion in 2025. He would also have included his football investments, personal investments, and personal assets.
Income Sources in 2025
Phil Kirk had various sources of income, reflecting his career and interests:
- Oil & Gas Holdings: The bulk of his wealth was derived from Chrysaor, and after, Harbour Energy where he was prominent.
- Football Ownership: He has poured millions of his own into Chesterfield FC so he could try and improve their facilities and operations, but also investments into the club's growth.
- Private Assets & Investment: As with most of the high-net-worth individuals, Kirk had some real estate holdings and private investments that helped as well.
Phil Kirk’s legacy at Chesterfield extends beyond his role as club owner.
— Why It Is Trending (@trendingblog247) August 25, 2025
Alongside his brother, he helped secure the Spireites’ return to the English Football League and invested significantly in the club’s stability.
Supporters fondly recall his commitment, strength, and… pic.twitter.com/Y5BlgQlZHw
Year-by-Year Net Worth Growth
Phil Kirk saw a continuing increase in his wealth during his energy career and into his football business. Below is an approximate illustration of his net worth development:
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Phil Kirk Career Journey
Kirk exemplified both resilience and foresight throughout his career. Working first in energy, he entered the world of football with a leadership role by co-founding Chrysaor, an energy company that turned into one of the UK’s biggest independent oil producers. As a leader at Chrysaor, he made several significant mergers and acquisitions, not least of which was Harbour Energy’s success.
In football, Kirk’s involvement was also visible in a much more hands-on way. As an example, he was very often seen in the stands during matches. Unlike the many absent owners who do not invest their emotions, Kirk was a visible supporter, which enhanced the morale of supporters and supported the players.
Assets and Business Ventures
- Harbour Energy: This was likely his most valuable financial asset.
- Chesterfield FC: More than a business to him, this was a labour of love. He and his brother reportedly invested over £3m in the club.
- Other Investments: Presumably, the former mayor can be found to own shares in private companies operating in a range of industries, although there are no public records detailing this.
Phil Kirk and Chesterfield FC
Phil Kirk's journey with Chesterfield FC was incredibly powerful and defining in his life. Phil put both time and money into the club, helping them move back to the English Football League. His choice to put a considerable amount of money into the club's facilities was clear evidence of his long-term commitment to the club.
On August 25 2025, the club announced he had died after a short illness. The Chesterfield fans were devastated, with a lot of people here now really looking at everything Phil had achieved and done for the team in a relatively short timeframe. There are questions now about the future of the club but I feel also there is a legacy of community and commitment.
Philanthropy and Community Impact
Through his connections with Chesterfield FC, Kirk in particular valued and supported community-led projects. He has secured a lot of fan ownership and working with the Chesterfield Community Trust, demonstrated to fans and developers that Football is not merely a business for profit, but rather a feeling very much owned by the people that support it.
Comparing to Other Football Owners
In contrast to billionaire Premier League owners, Kirk's wealth was moderate. However, his engagement, as well as willingness to personally invest where required, is what made him stand out. Fans appreciated him because he could easily be seen as personally engaged with his ownership (rather than simply providing the financial muscle) and this investment lent an appropriate human element to an ownership position.
Phil Kirk Family
Phil Kirk was a family man, who valued his family, but kept them largely out of the public eye. The names and details of his spouse or children, are not known publicly, but those who knew him, described him as a devoted family man, and someone who cherished and made time for close relationships, and would choose them instead of publicity.
In the aftermath of his tragic and untimely death at the age of 59, the heartfelt messages on social media from colleagues, friends and Chesterfield FC supporters alike, consistently referenced, and evoked the impact of Phil's warmth and generosity — and not just as an executive or owner, but as human being who genuinely cared. Many alluded to the quiet sacrifices he made, and reminded us that he had draw upon the support of his family behind the scenes.
It is anticipated that his family will play a pivotal role in sustaining both the business ethos, and Phil's legacy at Chesterfield FC. For as much as it may be obvious that the Kirk family were out of the limelight, it is evident from the messages received, that the presence of the Kirk family was paramount in shaping the man Phil was — recognized today not just for his achievements, but for the thoughtfulness and humility he reserved for the people closest to him.
Legacy After Death
Phil Kirk’s untimely death at 59 has left a hole. In business, he will always be remembered in history as a spirited leader who played a part in mapping out the UK energy landscape. In football, he will always be remembered as a caring owner, who played a significant role in the club and supporters' lives. The tributes and comments flooded in, signalling his legacy as a sharp businessman and a community man.
Source(Image / Thumbnail): www.ft.com