Tag Archives: south wales

Appointments, Business

Paul Butterworth appointed Vice Chair of Regional Learning and Skills Partnership

Paul Butterworth, the CEO of Chambers Wales South East, South West and Mid, has been appointed as the new Vice Chair of the Regional Learning and Skills Partnership (RLSP) for south-west Wales.

Covering Carmarthenshire, Neath Port Talbot, Pembrokeshire and Swansea, the RLSP is dedicated to bridging the gap between education, skills, and regeneration. It aims to ensure that the skills provision is aligned with the economic priorities and opportunities of the region, as well as tackling the new skills landscape that is happening within the energy, construction, manufacturing and digital sectors.

As CEO of Chambers Wales, Paul brings a wealth of experience and a passion for the economic and skills development of Welsh businesses with him to the board.

As the voice of the business community with policymakers, Paul will advocate for enhanced skills training, infrastructure improvements and the creation of skilled jobs, all aimed at creating local economic growth.

Upon his appointment, Paul said: “I am determined to create a better and fairer business landscape for West Wales to ensure that the local economy has the best available skills development for future project development and the transition into the green economy and energy sector to ensure West Wales thrives.”

Jane Lewis, Regional Partnerships Manager at RLSP, said: “We are delighted to have Paul on the board. He will be instrumental in achieving our goals and look forward to the positive impact his appointment will have on the region.”

Accountancy & Accounts, Cardiff

Boardroom leadership needed to manage AI risks and drive trust

  • Businesses urged to take steps to maximise the opportunities of AI and lay foundations for responsible use of new technologies
  • AI use in finance must be built on trust in order for it to succeed in rollout and application

 

Chief executive officers (CEOs) and chief financial officers (CFOs) need to build trust in artificial intelligence (AI) by taking steps in their organisations to manage the associated risks.

 

As AI plays a greater role in the accounting and financial reporting of businesses, CFOs and financial controllers will have to be confident about the adequacy of oversight and controls of AI systems.

 

In the first in a series of insights, AI monitor: trust, ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) urges finance professionals to ensure that AI governance and AI risk management is in place, beginning with:

 

  • Investing in AI literacy and skills development: finance professionals must invest in education and training to critically evaluate AI outputs, communicate clearly with key stakeholders, and make informed decisions.
  • Collaborating via cross-functional teams: finance professionals should actively engage with IT, data science, legal and risk management teams.
  • Developing an AI governance framework: beginning with critical uses, finance professionals should take steps within their organisation to establish clear policies, oversight and governance practices.

 

AI presents many opportunities to businesses such as providing more insights from a wider array of information sources, driving greater efficiency and better customer experiences. But it also poses a challenge to trust in accounting and finance reporting with new dynamics being introduced to the traditional trust mechanisms that underpin corporate accounting.

 

Alistair Brisbourne, head of technology research, ACCA, said: “Introducing AI is both about trust in the systems and trust in the people that we work with, and how we bring those two elements together.

 

“CEOs and CFOs need to focus on making the changes needed to harness the many potential opportunities but also retain trust. This includes upskilling to deal with the technology and introducing new knowledge into their organisations. They also need to focus on the governance, the oversight and culture required to allow different teams to work together effectively. It’s about bringing change management and governance together.”

 

AI monitor: trust highlights some of the risks of AI in accounting systems, such as:

  • Impacting decision-making without clearly explaining the rationale of the forecast or recommendation;
  • An over-dependence on AI procedures in auditing and assurance and a decline in use of human intervention and judgement;
  • Concern over AI bias or error in fraud detection, risk assessment and compliance monitoring;
  • Over relying on AI-powered virtual assistants which give inaccurate or inappropriate responses.

 

Lloyd Powell, head of ACCA Cymru/Wales, said: “In the AI era, the role of finance professionals is to focus on the outcomes driven by technology. Value lies in understanding how these outputs inform decisions and actions that drive business outcomes.

 

“As we recognised at a recent roundtable held in Cardiff, AI will change the finance function and there will be new roles as a result, but accountants will remain central to the success of Welsh businesses and organisations.”

 

In 2024 future issues of the AI monitor will explore talent, risk and controls, the relevance of effective data strategy, and sustainability applications.

 

Read Enabling trust in an AI-enhanced world

 

Visit ACCA’s website for more information.

Business, Cardiff, Mergers, Mergers & Acquisitions

Two south Wales storage businesses announce merger to drive growth and funding opportunities

CARDIFF based blue self storage Ltd (bss) and Maltings Document Storage Solutions (MDSS) have announced their merger to create a new entity branded as ‘Blue Storage Group’, while continuing to operate under the existing brands.

 

While both companies operate profitably and sustainably, the markets in which they operate are changing rapidly with the emergence of new digital technologies. Becoming a larger entity will allow greater investment in new systems and processes, and both companies to take advantage of new funding opportunities, grow operations and scale up geographically.

 

blue self storage is one of the leading container storage providers in the UK, providing storage services for homes, business, vehicles, and removal companies. The fast-growing company has facilities across the UK in Cardiff, Tyneside, Bridgend and a soon-to-be-launched Gloucester site.

 

Maltings Document Storage Solutions, based in Cardiff, provides reliable document storage and management solutions. MDSS has over 40 years’ experience providing its bespoke services in Cardiff and surrounding areas, with aspirations to expand further into England in the near future.

 

Chris Bryan, Managing Director of blue self storage, will assume responsibility for the strategic direction of the overarching entity that includes both companies, and Dean Daly will continue as Operations Director at blue self storage. Gareth Oram will also continue as a non-executive director of MDSS, with the day-to-day operations being steered by Commercial Director, Chris James.

 

Chris Bryan said “This merger will enable us to improve our current offerings, expand our services, and deliver better value to all our customers. While both businesses offer storage solutions to different industries, the infrastructure that’s required for both offerings are very similar.

 

“We have ambitious plans for Blue Storage Group; building on the recent opening of our Bridgend operation, we are currently finalising our plans to open a facility at Gloucester and have several other sites in the pipeline”

 

Gareth Oram added: “The merger represents a strategic move towards greater growth and efficiency. We believe that we will be better positioned to pursue opportunities and continue our aim to be one of the key innovators in what is a very competitive sector. Striving towards innovation, we have invested in the latest digital software and technology so that we can focus on consistent, high-quality service for all our customers, large or small.”

Business, Business Expansion, Cardiff, Cardiff News, Insurance, Investment

New Cardiff office for insurance group Howden

Howden, the global insurance intermediary group, has announced the opening of a new office in Cardiff, to support businesses with tailored insurance solutions.

Located at Regus House, Malthouse Avenue, in Cardiff Gate Business Park, the new office will build on the success of the recently inaugurated office in Swansea last month and Howden’s acquisition of Watkin Davies in 2020. The addition of a new Cardiff office underscores Howden’s dedication to becoming a prominent force in the commercial broking sector in South and West Wales. The expansion will be spearheaded by Gary Stevens, Regional Managing Director, who has outlined ambitious plans to position Howden as the foremost competitor in the region.

Gary expressed his enthusiasm for the expansion, stating: “I am very pleased to lead the opening of yet another office in Wales. An office in Cardiff was the natural choice for our expansion, and we are confident that by increasing our presence in South Wales by growing our team of advisors to 20+ enabling us to continuing to provide exceptional services to our clients.”

Under Gary’s leadership, the new Cardiff office is set to accommodate a team of six highly skilled brokers, who will work to uphold Howden’s commitment to excellence in risk advisory services, with more brokers set to join in the coming months. The team will play a pivotal role in driving the growth of Howden’s UK Corporate & Commercial pillar throughout 2024.

Gary added: “We’ve already made great headway in attracting a team of highly skilled brokers, and we anticipate significant growth throughout 2024. Our new Cardiff office, working closely with our Swansea operation, will play a key role in cementing our position as a leader in the South and West Wales commercial broking sector.

“We are very excited about our South Wales presence, and also becoming a Principal Partner of The British & Irish Lions for their forthcoming tour of Australia in 2025.”

Bridgend, Business, Business Investment, Careers

Key promotion at industrial electronic repair specialist

One of the UK’s leading providers of industrial electronic repairs has announced a key promotion within its sales team.

Zach Taylor has been promoted from Account Manager to Regional Sales Manager, taking on the new position in February.

Zach joined the Bridgend-based business, which works with leading manufacturers and businesses globally, in December 2020 as a Commercial Management Trainee while studying for a degree in business.

He quickly progressed to an Account Manager role in south-west England and as the newly appointed Regional Sales Manager, Zach will now be looking after customers in Bath, Bournemouth, Bristol, Dorset, Exeter, Portsmouth, Plymouth, Salisbury, Southampton, Taunton, Torquay and Truro.

In his new role, Zach will meet with new and existing customers in the region, building and maintaining relationships to ensure they receive the best possible solutions and service from the firm.

Zach said: “Since starting at Kontroltek, the company has been very supportive of my progression and growth. I am excited to take on this new role and I am fortunate to visit businesses of all sizes in the south-west, with a variety of needs whether it be repair, supply or on-site engineer visits.”

Cath Demaid, Director of Commercial and HR, said: “Zach is a fantastic addition to our regional sales team. The experience and knowledge he has built since he started with us perfectly places him to provide an excellent level of service and expertise to our customers in the south-west region.”

Outside of work, Zach enjoys playing rugby and is the captain of local club Pencoed RFC, which Kontroltek has sponsored for a decade.

This year’s sponsorship includes an addition designed to enhance the game experience for both the Pencoed RFC senior and current U15s age groups. Kontroltek has invested in a Veo camera, a state-of-the-art technology that promises to transform the way the sport is played and analysed. The Veo camera enables detailed video analysis and performance tracking, offering players and coaches valuable insights to further develop their skills and strategies.

Zach said: “It’s a real privilege to represent both Kontroltek and Pencoed RFC. The Veo camera is a gamechanger for us with regards to how it will help our team improve and develop. Thanks to Kontroltek for their ongoing support of both my professional and sporting endeavours.”

Founded in 2011, Kontroltek specialises in industrial electronic repairs and supply nationwide employing more than 60 staff.

Accountancy, Appointments, Business, Investment, Newport, South Wales

Kilsby Williams continues to grow with new appointments

Tax and accountancy specialist Kilsby Williams has strengthened its business services and tax teams as the Newport-based firm continues to grow.

Ken Vargis has been appointed as a manager in Kilsby Williams’ business services team. An assurance professional, Ken will be applying his significant auditing expertise to support the firm’s varied client portfolio.

Ken said: “I am elated to be joining Kilsby Williams at such a pivotal point in its growth. I am looking forward to working with new clients, and adding value to their business by providing robust services.”

Joining Ken in the business services team is Hannah Griffiths, a Swansea University accounting and finance graduate.

In her role as business services assistant, Hannah will be involved in the preparation of accounts for a number of clients and assisting with audits, while working towards the ACA qualification to become a chartered accountant and progress further in the firm.

In the tax team, Cardiff University graduate Luis McCarthy has been appointed as a trainee. He will support the team with the preparation of corporation and personal tax returns and will study towards the ATT and CTA exams to become a chartered tax advisor.

Ataf Salim, partner at Kilsby Williams, said: “We are focused on attracting the best accountancy and tax talent at every stage of their careers and are pleased to share the news of our latest appointments ranging from trainee to managerial level.

“As the largest independent firm in the region, it is exciting to grow even further and we know that Ken, Hannah and Luis’ work will strengthen our services.”

Established in 1991, Kilsby Williams works with clients from across south Wales, the Midlands and London, ranging from sole traders to companies in international quoted groups.

Driving, Sport, Transport

Veezu announces sponsorship of Pontypool United RFC

Veezu, the leading private hire firm in South Wales, is sponsoring Pontypool United RFC in a new partnership.

 

This sponsorship follows a series of partnerships Veezu has made with local groups in order to strengthen their connections and support its local communities as part of its Funded by Veezu programme.

 

Pontypool United RFC is one of the leading rugby clubs in Torfaen, welcoming more than 250 players, its teams span across under 6’s to under 16’s, youth and first team.

 

Funded by Veezu is an initiative in which local residents, charities and sports teams can apply for funding and grants. It was set up to improve the communities in which Veezu operates.

 

As the club’s official sponsor this season, Veezu will provide branded post protectors and new training tops for the squads.

 

Mark Jones, Chairman at Pontypool United RFC, said: “We are delighted to announce Veezu as sponsor and we are very grateful for their support. Looking after our club members is our number one priority, and Veezu has shown continuously how important the local community is to them.”

 

Nathan Bowles, Chief Executive Officer at Veezu, said: “We are delighted to be starting this partnership with Pontypool United, a local club that supports so many young people in the area. Being from New Inn myself, it’s especially exciting to be able to sponsor a team so close to home. I’m very much looking forward to the future of Veezu’s work with Pontypool United to see how we can continue to support the club.”

Business News, Charity News

Swansea Building Society Continues Commitment to Maggie’s Swansea 

In a noteworthy announcement, Swansea Building Society has confirmed the continuation of its ongoing partnership with Maggie’s Swansea for the third consecutive year. The decision, met with resounding endorsement from the Society’s staff, emphasises their steadfast dedication to supporting the essential services provided by Maggie’s Swansea. 

Over the past two years, Swansea Building Society has exemplified its commitment through a diverse array of successful fundraising activities. From dress-down days and customer refreshment services to raffles, sponsored dog walks, open water swimming, and participation in the Swansea Half Marathon, these initiatives have collectively raised an impressive cumulative total exceeding £60,000. 

The Society was also the headline sponsor of Maggie’s annual ball two years running, as well as its highly successful inaugural Christmas Extravaganza, held in December 2023.

This substantial financial support has played a crucial role in empowering Maggie’s Swansea to deliver its essential services and support to those navigating the challenges of cancer.

Located at Singleton Hospital, Maggie’s Swansea provides free practical, emotional, and social support to people with cancer, as well as their families and friends. The centre works in collaboration with conventional cancer therapies, offering a caring environment to provide support, information, and practical advice. This includes financial and benefits advice, support with treatment decisions, and access to other cancer services. In addition, Maggie’s Swansea also provides nutrition workshops, complementary therapies, and other services.

Building on its successful fundraising over the last two years, Swansea Building Society is determined to continue to raise as much as possible in its last year supporting Maggie’s and make an even greater impact in the lives of those dealing with cancer during 2024.

It has many fundraising events already in the calendar, including a mutt strutt (sponsored dog walk), dip a day, Swansea half marathon, Long Course triathlon, cycling the length of Wales, and climbing the Welsh three peaks challenge. The Society will also be sponsoring Maggie’s Annual Ball in October and it’s second Christmas Extravaganza in December.

Alun Williams, Chief Executive Officer of Swansea Building Society, said:

“Our commitment to supporting local communities is at the heart of everything we do. We are delighted to continue our support for Maggie’s Swansea and look forward to making a positive difference to those who need it most.”

Lucia Osmond, Centre Fundraising Manager at Maggie’s Swansea, added:

“We are extremely thankful to Swansea Building Society for choosing Maggie’s Swansea as its official staff charity for the third consecutive year. The support of the Society and its staff means so much to us, and we have been inspired by their generosity and commitment to our cause.”

As the collaboration enters its third year, Swansea Building Society and Maggie’s Swansea anticipate another successful partnership, making a lasting impact on the lives of those affected by cancer.

Business News, Insurance, Wales, Wales News

Insurance group Howden expands presence in Wales with new Swansea office

Howden, the international insurance group, has announced the opening of a new office in Swansea.

This strategic expansion is part of Howden UK & Ireland’s commitment to further strengthen its foothold in the South and West Wales region, providing risk advisory services to businesses.

The new office is located at Axis Court, Riverside Business Park, Swansea. Under the leadership of Gary Stevens, Regional Managing Director, who has over four decades of industry experience, the Swansea office aims to become the leading competitor in the commercial broking sector in South and West Wales.

Stevens, previously of Aston Lark, which was acquired by the Howden Group in 2022, has outlined ambitious goals for the office, including doubling the size of the team by the beginning of 2025, reflecting the company’s dedication to employing the best talent and fostering a dynamic team culture.

“I am thrilled to lead the team in Swansea as we work towards becoming the primary choice for risk advisory services in South and West Wales,” said Gary Stevens.

“Howden continues to be a driving force in the insurance industry and our goal is not just to be a significant player within Howden, but also to be the go-to partner for Welsh-based companies seeking high-quality risk advice.”

The investment in the Swansea office underscores the importance of South Wales to Howden UK & Ireland’s overall business strategy, with a second office in the region set to open this spring.

Stevens also emphasises the importance of having a collaborative and enjoyable work environment, stating: “We aim to have fun while delivering exceptional service to our clients. We’re building a team of highly skilled brokers with expertise in various sectors, including transportation, construction, charity, care, professions, sports and leisure, and waste/recycling.”

In July 2023, it was announced that Howden would become a Principal Partner of The British & Irish Lions for the next four years and the official front of jersey sponsor for the upcoming 2025 Lions Tour to Australia. This partnership support extends to a community level via the Lions Origin Clubs, with the Wales office supporting local teams across the region.

About Howden:

Howden is the 5th largest employee-owned business in the UK, and one of the largest insurance groups in the world, with $35bn premium under management and 1.7 million clients served by 15,000 employees.

Howden is made up of talented experts with the freedom and support to do what we do best. We are united by a shared passion and no-limits mindset, and we collaborate to create a powerful international team that can rise to any challenge. Together, we are working to change the insurance narrative – supporting our clients while using insurance as a tool to increase resilience for individuals, businesses, and communities. www.howdenbroking.com

News

ERS steers candidates toward an exciting career path through its Claims Apprenticeship Programme

ERS, the UK’s specialist motor insurer, is setting a new course in South Wales with the introduction of the ERS Claims Apprenticeship Programme as a vital element of its current hiring push to fill over 50 positions at its Swansea office.

The programme opens doors to diverse opportunities within the insurance sector, including areas like broking, underwriting, and claims operations, laying the foundations for versatile and fulfilling career options.

This groundbreaking initiative not only offers a roadmap to an exciting and potentially lucrative career journey but also provides access to apprenticeships that are traditionally scarce in the region, often only available in London.

In a region where such opportunities have been rare, ERS’s Claims Apprenticeship Programme enables candidates to earn while they learn, providing a competitive salary while working toward a recognised and highly sought-after qualification.

The ERS Apprenticeship Programme is focused on nurturing the next generation of insurance professionals. As part of the programme, individuals work as Claims Handlers, playing a vital role in providing support and guidance to customers during the claims process. The company has stated that this role is not just a job; it’s the beginning of a rewarding career journey.

ERS is looking for candidates from diverse backgrounds and age ranges. It is interested in speaking to recent school or university graduates, as well as those seeking a career change – particularly those with a passion for excellent customer service and an eagerness to develop a career in insurance. The apprenticeships are based at ERS’s Swansea Vale office and offer a hybrid work model, combining office collaboration and remote work.

The programme offers candidates a competitive salary while also gaining valuable real-world experience in the dynamic insurance industry. This means that, unlike many traditional learning pathways, the apprenticeships allow participants to start their career journey with a solid financial footing.

In addition to the financial benefits, the programme fast-tracks apprentices on the path to a recognised qualification. It provides a structured and comprehensive approach to professional development, ensuring that apprentices are well-prepared to meet the industry’s demands and challenges.

Kian Hearn, Claims Apprentice at ERS, said:

“As a young person, I didn’t think apprenticeships were available in insurance and finance, and university didn’t seem like the right fit for me. But here I can earn good money, learn on the job and get a qualification at the same time, all while working in a friendly, welcoming environment.”

 

Martin Hall, Active Underwriter at ERS, said:

“At ERS, we understand the importance of creating meaningful career opportunities in South Wales. Our Claims Apprenticeship Programme is designed to empower individuals with the skills, knowledge, and qualifications they need to thrive in the insurance industry. It’s a unique opportunity for anyone seeking a career in insurance, whether they are starting out or making a career change.”

 

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply via the dedicated careers page on the ERS website.