Tag Archives: south wales

Business 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.

News

South Wales job market set for injection thanks to ERS

With its business thriving, ERS, the specialist motor insurer, is making substantial investments in its Swansea headquarters. The company is set to fill 50 job vacancies in the coming months as part of a strategic initiative to support its continued growth and solidify its position as a prominent employer in the area.

The company already employs close to 500 people at its 33,000 sq ft site at Crucible Park, Swansea Vale, which it first moved to in 2015. That move was prompted by the London-based company taking a strategic decision to bolster its Swansea hub, originally set up in 1994, subsequently relocating many skilled roles to Swansea from London.

Since then, the company has grown steadily, as has its workforce in Wales. Now, the company has launched a renewed campaign to put it on the map as an employer of choice in the region, able to offer careers and continuing professional development in many skilled and technical roles previously seldom found within financial services in South Wales.

Some of its skilled roles span underwriting, claims, project managers, business analysts, and system testers as well as in niche specialisms such as technical IT, counter fraud, personal injury, risk, governance, and compliance. Within the insurance sector, many of these positions have traditionally only been available in London.

The company’s commitment to Swansea has been warmly welcomed, especially in light of other large employers operating call centres scaling down their operations in the area in recent years.

Operating through a nationwide network of insurance brokers and backed by Lloyd’s Syndicate 218, ERS provides coverage for a wide range of vehicles, including supercars, sports figures and celebrities, private cars, classic cars, vans, taxis, minibuses, fleets, agricultural vehicles, and special commercial vehicles, as well as motor breakdown protection. It will cover everything from combine harvesters to supercars through to unique events like the Gumball 3000 Rally.

Martin Hall, Active Underwriter at ERS, said:

“We have a long-term commitment to South Wales and are thrilled to be contributing to the local economy with this new recruitment drive. At ERS, we believe in nurturing local talent and providing career development opportunities to individuals of all ages. We encourage anyone interested in joining our dynamic team to explore the available positions and apprenticeship opportunities.”

ERS – the UK’s leading specialist motor insurer – has announced a major recruitment drive at its Swansea Vale office

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

News

Thousands from across Wales to attend returning SkillsCymru exhibition

THOUSANDS of visitors are set to descend on South Wales for a much-anticipated celebration of careers and education.

SkillsCymru 2022 will be held at the Motorpoint Arena in Cardiff over two days from Wednesday October 19.

Organised by Optimus Education – part of Shaw Trust – the free event is accessible for the whole family as a ‘Twilight Session’ will be held for parents and carers from 4pm-6.30pm on the opening day.

There they will be able to join their children in discovering the latest advice on careers, training courses and qualifications and make informed choices about their future.

With up to 45 exhibitors and more than 5,000 visitors expected to be in attendance, there will be plenty on offer for school and college groups to enjoy, including interactive workshops, presentations, and hands-on demonstrations across a range of careers.

Steph Reynolds, Director at Optimus Education, said the expo will give learners a post-pandemic boost following the challenges of past years.

“We have had an incredible response and are delighted to welcome people back to the Motorpoint Arena at such an important time for industries across Wales,” she said.

“Many sectors are facing a recruitment crisis or skills shortages, so this is a huge opportunity for private and public sector employers to showcase their industries to Wales’s future workforce.”

Steph added: “SkillsCymru is a platform for young people, their parents, and carers to discover what jobs and skills are in-demand in Wales today to help them better understand possible career paths they may want to explore.

“Importantly, with the support of schools and colleges across the country we can prepare future generations for the world of work, which is ever-changing.

“By including the evening ‘Twilight Session’ we have opened-up the exhibition to more people who may have been unable to attend, so we hope to see a good response to that.

“We thank people for their interest so far and look forward to seeing you there.”

SkillsCymru is delivered in partnership with the Welsh Government as part of its Young Person’s Guarantee, a new commitment to ensure that there is no lost generation in Wales following the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Young Person’s Guarantee will guarantee an offer of support for every child or young person aged between 16 and 25 who lives in Wales, to gain a place in education or training, or help to get into work or become self-employed.

Attendees will benefit from direct exposure to some of Wales’s biggest and most exciting employers – including South Wales Police, Cardiff Council and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service – and training providers to give them the best chance of finding a course or job that’s right for them.

Economy Minister Vaughan Gething said: “This event, which is free and open to anyone from the ages of 15 right up to 24, is a great opportunity to meet potential employers and to find out about the skills and training needed to enter an industry of your choice.

“Our Young Person’s Guarantee is striving to make sure no-one is left behind following the Covid pandemic. In doing so we will futureproof the thriving business communities we have here in Wales.

“Able to be held in person again for this first time since 2019, SkillsCymru has so much to offer. You’ll find advice, interactive demonstrations and maybe even a touch of inspiration to spur you on to your next education or training journey.”

SkillsCymru 2022 will take place on Wednesday October 19 from 9:30am-3pm and 4pm-6:30pm, and on Thursday October 20 from 9:30am-3pm.

For more information and to register for the free event, please visit skillsevents.com or email visitors@optimus-education.com.

News

Cycle Solutions become first Velorim Centre in Wales

Swansea-based Cycle Solutions have become an early adopter of Velorim, the National Bicycle Tyre Recycling Scheme. As a Velorim Centre, Cycle Solutions will offer its customers and other cyclists the opportunity to recycle their inner tubes and tyres.

Velorim, founded in 2018, began rolling out the scheme to trial sites this year. Their aim is to get 85% of the UK’s bicycle tyres and tubes properly recycled. The official launch is due to be early 2021. Directors, Richard Lawrence and Russ Taylor, along with CEO, Dave Hawthorn identified the need for a proper facility to recycle tubes and tyres.

In the UK alone, 44,000 tonnes of waste tubes and tyres are discarded annually. The UK Government is currently working on the Environment Bill 2020 which will see scrapping bicycle tyres made illegal once passed.

Velorim director, Richard Lawrence is pleased the cycling industry have been so positive about the scheme; “We welcome organisations such as Cycle Solutions into the early days and beta testing phase of the collection scheme for bicycle tyres and inner tubes. These organisations are showing that they take the green credentials of cycling seriously.”

To take part in the scheme, people can visit Cycle Solutions bike shop in Swansea’s Uplands area, or the main Cycle Solutions head office in Fforestfach, to dispose of their tyres and tubes. There will be a charge of 20p per inner tube and 50p per tyre, this charge enables the scheme to run.

Talking about the recycling process, Richard added, “the tyres will be shredded and used for things like safety flooring or equestrian surfacing. We are in the process of testing the devulcanisation of the tyre rubber so that it can be fed back into the manufacturing process.”

Upon joining the scheme, Cycle Solutions Director, Steve Edgell said, “There is no doubt that cycling has huge positive impacts on the environment. But to maximise these benefits we need to ensure that the impact of the potentially harmful waste products put out by the bike industry are minimised. We have long sought a sustainable solution for the disposal of old tyres and inner tubes. Velorim provides just that solution and we are really pleased to support this initiative.”