Tag Archives: south wales

Business, Investment

Welsh Government and Cardiff Capital Region welcomes news of £250m investment into compound semiconductor industry

Vishay Intertechnology has announced a £250m investment in its semiconductor site in Newport to revolutionise the production of electric vehicles.

The investment, supported by the UK Government’s Automotive Transformation Fund, will amplify Vishay’s production of advanced silicon carbide semiconductors, a key tool in increasing the efficiency of electric vehicles.

First Minister of Wales, Eluned Morgan, said:

“Compound semiconductors are small but vital bits of our everyday lives and Wales is leading the way in their production and manufacture.

“I welcome the additional investment from the UK Government, which builds on the Welsh Government’s work over the last decade in supporting the growth of the semiconductor cluster. We are now reaping the rewards of our commitment, which we will continue to drive forward.”

Cllr Mary Ann Brocklesby, Leader, Monmouthshire Council, and Chair, Cardiff Capital Region said:

“This significant investment into the South East Wales compound semiconductor sector displays great confidence and shows the value of investment in the region.

“We welcome the news of this investment to develop the cluster, which has been a priority of Cardiff Capital Region, Welsh and UK Governments for several years.

“It is tremendous to see the benefits this will bring to the region in creating highly skilled jobs, accelerating our progress in the UK Automotive industry, and positioning us as a competitor in not only UK investment, but also globally.”

Business News, Construction, HR News, South Wales

Premier Forecourts and Construction expands EV infrastructure capability with Steve Warrington in key role

Premier Forecourts and Construction, an industry leader in delivering complex forecourt and infrastructure projects across the UK, has appointed Steve Warrington as its EV Infrastructure Manager – a role that reflects the company’s continued growth and the evolving needs of forecourt infrastructure as the demand for electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions increases.

As the transition to EVs accelerates, forecourts and commercial sites require more advanced and efficient charging infrastructure. In response, Premier Forecourts and Construction has expanded its expertise to ensure it remains at the forefront of this sector. The appointment of Steve Warrington underscores the company’s commitment to delivering turnkey EV solutions that simplify project planning and execution for clients.

Steve brings nearly two decades of electrical industry experience to the role, having started his career as an electrical apprentice in 2004. Since joining Premier Forecourts and Construction two years ago, he has played a key role within the contracts department, overseeing a range of civil projects. His new position will see him acting as a central point of contact between clients, architects, Independent Connection Providers (ICPs), and electricians, helping to streamline the planning and delivery of EV infrastructure projects.

Steve Warrington, EV Infrastructure Manager, Premier Forecourts and Construction, said:

“With the rapid evolution of electrical regulations, it’s easy for clients and architects to encounter technical challenges when integrating EV infrastructure into their projects. My role is designed to bridge that gap—ensuring that projects run smoothly and that we can offer a comprehensive, single-contractor solution. It’s an exciting time for the industry, and I look forward to driving Premier Forecourts and Construction’s EV capabilities forward.”

Steve Evans, Managing Director at Premier Forecourts and Construction, added:

“As the industry continues to evolve, we recognise the need to stay ahead by investing in our team and expertise. Steve Warrington’s role as EV Infrastructure Manager is a crucial step in ensuring we provide our clients with the highest standard of service and innovative solutions. We are excited about the future and the opportunities this expansion brings.”

The company is also working towards NICEIC accreditation, a move that will further strengthen its ability to offer dedicated electrical services as part of its EV infrastructure solutions.

This latest appointment highlights Premier Forecourts and Construction’s dedication to adapting to industry changes and providing innovative, high-quality services to meet the needs of the future. The company is the only one of its size that can accommodate both traditional and electric vehicle fuel solutions, and with recent RICQS accreditation is now expanding to include working alongside major contractors, on projects that focus on infrastructure surrounding the rail network

Due to this expansion, Premier Forecourts and Construction currently has a number of vacancies available. Interested candidates can view these opportunities on the company’s website here.

Appointments, Business News, South Wales, Wales

Premier Forecourts and Construction appoints Ashley Davies as Head of Compliance

Premier Forecourts and Construction, an industry leader in delivering complex forecourt and infrastructure projects across the UK, has announced the promotion of Ashley Davies to the newly created role of Head of Compliance. This new position reflects the company’s ongoing growth and diversification as it continues to expand its operations.

Ashley, who has been with the company for 14 years, originally joined in 2011 as Health and Safety Manager, bringing a wealth of experience from his previous role in Health and Safety and as a pipefitter working on power stations and refineries across the UK. Over the years, Ashley has played a pivotal role in enhancing the company’s standards and management systems. His efforts have been instrumental in achieving key accreditations, including ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 standards, as well as the prestigious RISQS accreditation.

In his new role, Ashley will oversee compliance across all business functions, using the disciplines and foundations established during Premier’s ISO accreditation journey. His responsibilities include ensuring robust management systems are in place across departments, providing assurance to directors and stakeholders, and continuing to enhance the company’s value through improved systems and processes.

Ashley works alongside two other members whose roles encompass environment, sustainability and quality, as well as five cross-departmental managers who report monthly as part of the company’s new compliance reporting system. His leadership has already delivered significant results, including the implementation of Procore, a platform that has streamlined health, safety, environmental, and quality (HSEQ) management and project delivery for the company.

Speaking about his appointment, Ashley Davies said:

“The Head of Compliance role is an exciting opportunity to build on the strong foundations we’ve established. My focus will be on ensuring we continue to improve as a business and offer even greater value to our stakeholders, while maintaining the high standards we’ve worked hard to achieve.”

Steve Evans, Managing Director of Premier Forecourts and Construction, added:

“The Head of Compliance role is a natural progression for Ashley. Since joining us back in 2011, he has been a key part of our team and someone I have always been able to rely on to deliver on targets and direction. His work has driven our standards and earned us multiple accreditations that back up the processes and systems he has implemented. We are thrilled to see him take on this vital new role as the business continues to grow.”

The creation of the Head of Compliance role underscores Premier Forecourts and Construction’s commitment to operational excellence, stakeholder confidence, and sustainable growth. For more information about Premier Forecourts and Construction and to learn about current job opportunities, please visit www.premierforecourtsandconstruction.com/move-ahead-with-premier

Appointments, Business Expansion, Business News

Howden Insurance makes two key appointments to account management team

Howden, the global insurance group, has welcomed two new appointments, Hannah Joyce and David Bennett, to its Wales offices.

Hannah joins Howden from Thomas Carroll, having previously worked at Davies Craddock and NFU Mutual. As account executive she will specialise in building and maintaining long-lasting relationships with commercial clients to contribute to the growth of Howden’s south Wales branch.

On her appointment, Hannah said: “I’m thoroughly enjoying my time at Howden. I was drawn to the company due to the fast-paced, challenging and exciting environment that is interrupting the existing broker network in south Wales.

“I am confident that with the reach of Howden and my desire to build long-standing relationships with clients, I will be able to provide great value risk advice and insurance protection.”

David joins the team following his role as commercial director at Cornerstone Commercial Insurance.  Previously in a senior management and operations role, he will be moving back to a client-facing sales and advisory position, bringing his expertise in sectors such as leisure, property owners and manufacturing.

On his appointment, David said: “I am delighted to have joined the sales and risk management team at such a renowned company. Howden has really raised its profile in recent years and the expansion into South Wales means we have a very exciting future ahead.

“Personally, I am looking forward to forging relationships with new clients and insurers across the region, and I am particularly excited to assist Howden in achieving our customer-centric goals.”

Gary Stevens, Regional Managing Director at Howden, added: “Hannah and David are both exceptional assets to our account management team and they have already shown their potential to spearhead what we can do for clients in 2025. As we kick off the new year, I am confident that our team will continue to grow in providing tailored and practical solutions to our clients and expanding the opportunities for the South Wales offices.”

Apprenticeships, Hospitality, Newport

CCR helps to fund the next generation of hospitality professionals in Newport

Tŷ Hotel Newport, which opened in 2024, is using part of its £9.7m funding from Cardiff Capital Region’s Strategic Premises Fund to finance on site practical training for hospitality students as it prepares the next generation for careers in the sector.

The Celtic Collection, which manages the hotel, collaborated with the University of South Wales to create a paid nine-month placement programme which provides hands on experience for students as they complete the practical training components of their hospitality and business management courses.

The two successful applicants, Deepu Chandran and Dilakshan Classen, began their placement at Coldra Court Hotel before moving over to Tŷ Hotel Newport for the hotel’s launch and the busy period following the opening.

The 146-bed hotel opened on 2 June, following a £9.7m investment from Cardiff Capital Region’s Strategic Premises Fund to finance the completion.

The investment was particularly focused on improving the environmental outputs in the hotel, with all gas-powered functions having been replaced with an all-electric system that uses heat pumps and photovoltaic panels on the roof.

The hotel is well placed to support the increasing level of activity at the International Convention Centre Wales (ICCW) and its opening coincided with the Royal College of Nursing’s conference.

Deepu and Dilakshan’s experience has provided the pair with opportunities to work in conferences and events, food and beverage and front office, to engage with the senior team in the Newport region of the Celtic Collection and pursue employment at the hotel following the completion of the placement.

Tracy Israel, Director of Talent and Development at the Celtic Collection, said: “We were delighted to partner with the University of South Wales to create these two placement opportunities at our Newport cluster hotels. It was a fantastic chance for the students to be

 

part of an exciting launch at Tŷ Hotel Newport and to get hands-on experience at a brand new venue which sets new sustainability standards as the largest all-electric hotel in Wales.

“Both Dilakshan and Deepu have immersed themselves in a wide variety of hotel and hospitality roles with enthusiasm and shown great aptitude for the work. We hope that they will be able to continue their careers with the Celtic Collection when they complete their placements and their MBA studies.”

Councillor Dimitri Batrouni, Leader of Newport Council and member of Cardiff Capital Region, said: “In keeping with CCR’s aim of making South East Wales a desirable place to live, work and invest, Tŷ Hotel Newport provides the perfect accompaniment to the various corporate and leisure events hosted at the ICCW and brings a significant positive economic impact to the local area by drawing guests to the region.

“The hotel highlights what Cardiff Capital Region can do with the Strategic Premises Fund and the success it can bring to local projects. I am delighted to see the hotel bring further benefits to the community through this collaboration with the University of South Wales to train the next generation of hospitality talent.”

Dr Andrew Thompson, Head of Subject for Global Business at University of South Wales, said: “We have been delighted to partner our MBA Global students at the University of South Wales, Deepu Chandran and Dilakshan Classen, with the Celtic Collection leading into the launch of Tŷ Hotel Newport. The Celtic Manor has a reputation far beyond Wales, and for students seeking to pursue careers in hospitality management we could not have wished for a more exciting collaboration.

“Deepu and Dilakshan have both gained experience which will stand them in good stead for their future careers, hopefully remaining here for a while longer in Wales. I would like to extend my thanks to Tracy Israel, Director of Talent and Development at the Celtic Collection, for championing our students’ interests.”

Appointments, Insurance

Howden makes key addition to Welsh corporate team

HOWDEN, the global insurance group, has appointed Daniel Abbott as Corporate Director to its South Wales corporate team.

 

Daniel joins the team following his role as Sales & Development Director at Watkin Davies, which was acquired by Howden in 2021. This marks another strong addition to Howden’s South Wales base as it continues to attract new talent through its unique employee ownership model and strengthen its potential for client support.

 

After being in his previous role for six years, Daniel will bring a wealth of experience to support the growth and development of Howden’s South Wales corporate division, which currently includes Annabelle Cervera, Tony Barber and Stephen Yandle as Account Executive, Account Director and Regional Corporate and Commercial Sales Director respectively.

 

As Corporate Director, Daniel will have a key focus on providing risk management solutions and effective risk transfer programmes for large, complex and multinational clients across industries such as marine, energy, construction and waste management.

 

Speaking on his appointment, Daniel said: “I was thrilled for the opportunity to join Howden’s corporate team in South Wales at what is such an exciting period of growth. In my role I aim to work closely with our clients and partners to formulate strategic plans that enhance opportunities, while effectively promoting Howden’s comprehensive range of solutions and capabilities.

 

“Howden is a group of exceptionally talented insurance experts who have the freedom to deliver for clients and the support to do what they do best. I’m honoured to join an exceptional team of seasoned professionals under the insightful leadership of Gary Stevens, and I look forward to contributing to Howden’s continued growth and expansion throughout South Wales and beyond.”

 

Gary Stevens, Regional Managing Director at Howden, added: “Daniel is an exceptional addition to our corporate team in South Wales and I have no doubt that he will make a strong impact on our growth and development, and catalyse the strategies involved to always provide the highest quality services. With his experience, he holds the key skills needed to create strategic solutions that not only benefit our clients fully but keep the true values and ethos of Howden at heart.”

Business, FInance, Finance News, News, South Wales, Wales

Swansea Building Society grows workforce amid industry downsizing

Swansea Building Society has added 13 new employees to its growing team so far in 2024, strengthening its commitment to providing customer-focused services across South Wales and England. This expansion not only underscores the Society’s continued growth but also highlights its steadfast approach to “opening and not closing branches” at a time when many financial institutions are reducing staff numbers and consolidating operations.

With a mix of industry veterans and new talent joining from major high-street banks and other financial Institutions, Swansea Building Society continues to build a strong team focused on quality and personal service. This year’s hires include roles across key areas, such as customer service, mortgage sales & administration, compliance, IT, and HR, enhancing the Society’s capacity to serve a growing member base.

These include: Lynn Pamment (Non-Executive Director); Carlos Cruz (Risk & Compliance); Curtis Morris (Mortgage Manager); Ben Russ (IT); Luke Jones and Rhys Morris (Manager Assistant Support Officers); Cathryn Evans, Nicola McCarthy, Sarah Duck, Natasha Batchelor (Cashiers); Leanne Staniforth (Manager Assistant); Katie Jones (Mortgage Administration) and Swagata Biswas (HR Manager).

Swagata Biswas joined the Society in July as HR Manager. With eight years of HR experience and an MBA from Cardiff Metropolitan University, Swagata is currently pursuing a CIPD Level 5 qualification to further develop her strategic capabilities.

Carlos Cruz joined the Society’s Risk & Compliance team in April, bringing valuable experience from the compliance field. After graduating with a degree in Law with Spanish from Swansea University, Carlos began his career in financial crime compliance, before moving into his current role upon returning to Swansea. Ben Russ, who has joined in IT, brings a strong analytical background with a degree in Mathematics from Cardiff University and previous IT service desk experience.

The Society has also welcomed several new Manager Assistants, Mortgage Administrators, and Cashiers, including Cathryn Evans, who brings 36 years of financial services experience, most recently from Barclays, and Katie Jones, who joined the Mortgage Administration team after two years with Lloyds Banking Group.

The 2024 expansion highlights Swansea Building Society’s ongoing growth and resilience. By attracting experienced professionals from institutions that have faced staff cuts, the Society has strengthened its position as a unique player in the financial sector, maintaining its commitment to branch-based, hands-on customer service, whilst also allowing expansion of its digital services, at a time when online-only banking is becoming more prevalent.

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

“Our new team members bring with them a wealth of experience as well as fresh insight from a variety of backgrounds, strengthening our ability to provide exceptional service to our customers. At Swansea Building Society, we remain committed to branch expansion and building strong relationships with our members, offering a personal, tailored approach that stands out in today’s banking landscape.

“With these appointments, Swansea Building Society reaffirms its dedication to expanding its footprint while staying true to its community-centric values.”

Founded in 1923, Swansea Building Society is dedicated to offering quality, personalised financial services across South Wales and England. Committed to local presence and traditional values, the Society emphasises a manual underwriting process and individualised attention for each member’s financial needs.

Awards, Business, Pensions, South Wales, Wales

Swansea graduate awarded Quantum Advisory Prize for mathematics excellence

The Quantum Advisory Prize for 2024 has been awarded to a Swansea University graduate, recognising their contribution to mathematics.

 

Hal Peckett, from Exeter, graduated from Swansea University this year with a first class honours degree in Applied Mathematics. Hal was chosen as the recipient of the prize for his dissertation titled ‘The Tragedy of the Commons: Dynamical Systems of Competing Fisheries and Game Theory’.

 

The Quantum Advisory Prize is an annual award presented by corporate pension and employee benefit experts Quantum Advisory that celebrates mathematics students who have transcended throughout their degree. The award recognises the quality and ambition of their work and, as well as acknowledgement of their effort, recipients benefit from a financial grant to support them as they initiate their career.

 

In applied mathematics, researchers can apply mathematical methods and specialised subject knowledge to a range of different scientific, economic and industrial fields. In his winning dissertation, Hal applied two mathematical approaches, dynamical systems and game theory, to the field of biology to analyse access and competition surrounding finite resources in fishery settings.

 

Hal said: “I am incredibly grateful to receive this prize for my final year dissertation. I put a lot of hard work into it, and it was a very challenging undertaking. I thank Quantum Advisory for this award and must also thank my supervisor Dr Noemi Picco for her guidance throughout my project.

 

“I am going to further specialise in mathematical biology, the area of mathematics on which my dissertation was based, by continuing onto a master’s degree in Biomathematics at Exeter University. It is an area of maths that I had never heard about before coming to Swansea, and it is a topic I am excited to pursue further and develop a career out of. The prize money is a massive help for the transition into my master’s and will help support me while I take on this new challenge.”

 

Dr Noemi Picco, Senior Lecturer in Mathematics at Swansea University, said: “Hal has done a fantastic job developing an excellent piece of work centred around the problem of sharing common finite resources: the ‘tragedy of the commons’. Hal was inquisitive and motivated into exploring how this seemingly simple scenario could be described and analysed mathematically. The end result was an outstanding dissertation which brings together two distinct mathematical approaches: game theory and dynamical systems.

 

“Hal has successfully navigated his first experience of independent research work, growing in confidence and critical thinking while overcoming obstacles along the way. It has been a pleasure to witness his journey through this project, and the potential for a future as a brilliant researcher.”

 

Stuart Price, Partner and Actuary at Quantum Advisory, said: “We are proud to support Swansea University graduates as they begin their careers in mathematics and the calibre and talent of their students always greatly impresses us year on year.

 

“Hal’s project and his approach really stood out this year and we are delighted to award him the Quantum Advisory Prize for his outstanding dissertation. We are delighted to hear that he is progressing his interests in this field further and wish him the very best for his master’s degree.”

 

Quantum Advisory provides pension and employee benefits services to employers, scheme trustees and members and has offices in Cardiff, Amersham, Birmingham and London. For more information about Quantum Advisory, please visit https://quantumadvisory.co.uk.

Appointments, Investment, Investment News, South Wales

Howden appoints Account Director to accelerate growth in Wales

HOWDEN, the global insurance intermediary group, has appointed Tony Barber as Account Director as it continues to grow its presence in South Wales.

 

Tony will be based in Cardiff, covering Wales and its surrounding regions, and joins the team having previously worked as Account Director at Willis Towers Watson.

 

In his new role, Tony will help drive Howden’s positive growth in Wales by supporting larger and more complex clients, developing and implementing comprehensive risk management and insurance strategies.

 

Commenting on his appointment, Tony said: “I am thrilled to be joining Howden’s Cardiff office and to build on its already fantastic growth.

 

“I was drawn to Howden due to its employee ownership model as it cultivates a collaborative culture amongst colleagues to the benefit of clients, as well as its renowned entrepreneurial culture.

 

“I’m excited to join a new team and am looking forward to playing a part in shaping Howden’s strategy in South Wales.”

 

Gary Stevens, Regional Managing Director at Howden, said: “Tony is yet another fantastic addition to our Cardiff team, and has already made an extraordinary impact in accelerating our growth and creating new ways in which we can support our clients.

 

“As we continue to grow our Howden team in Wales, I have every confidence that we will continue on our upwards trajectory and expand even further across south and west Wales.”