This article highlights the recent appointments within the Welsh business community. Key roles have been filled at Welsh Water, the British Business Bank, Principality, The Wallich, Kilsby Williams, Knight Frank, and Life Sciences Hub Wales.
These appointments reflect significant changes across various sectors, signalling a period of development and leadership transformation in Wales. Each individual brings a wealth of experience and expertise to their respective roles, promising positive outcomes for the organisations they will serve.
Welsh Water Leadership Transition
Welsh Water announced that its chairman, Alastair Lyons, will retire at the end of the year. He will be succeeded by Jane Hanson, who has extensive experience in FTSE 100 companies and regulatory bodies. Hanson, currently a non-executive director at HM Treasury, joined the Welsh Water board in 2021. Lyons praised Hanson’s executive and non-executive experience, asserting that it will be invaluable for the company. Hanson expressed her excitement about leading the company through challenging times.
Lyons highlighted Welsh Water’s unique not-for-shareholder model as a vital factor in focusing on customer needs. He commended the team for their support and dedication, particularly during challenging periods. Peter Perry, Welsh Water’s chief executive, reiterated the importance of quality service and customer value, which Lyons had reinforced during his tenure as chairman. Perry looks forward to collaborating with Hanson as they embark on a new investment phase.
British Business Bank’s New Ambassador
Leon Stapleton, founder of We Make Footballers Cardiff, is now the Ambassador for Wales at the British Business Bank. Stapleton, a former maths and science teacher, highlighted the substantial benefits of the start-up loan, which enabled him to launch his football training academy. The loan facilitated the purchase of essential training equipment and marketing materials. Stapleton aims to inspire others to turn their passion into a business, leveraging support from programmes like Start Up Loans.
Jessica Phillips-Harris, senior manager for Wales at the British Business Bank, praised Stapleton’s determination and drive, noting that he embodies the qualities of successful entrepreneurs. She looks forward to working with him and sharing his story to motivate others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.
New Appointment at Principality Building Society
Karen Maguire has joined the board of Principality Building Society. Maguire, a chartered accountant, previously held senior roles at KPMG, Admiral, and Confused.com. Simon Moore, chair of Principality, expressed enthusiasm about Maguire’s expertise, particularly her audit and risk management skills. He noted that Maguire’s experience would be instrumental in guiding the business forward and strengthening the audit committee.
Maguire shared her excitement about joining Principality, emphasising her commitment to delivering positive outcomes for customers. She looks forward to contributing to the company’s rich heritage and community-focused mission.
The Wallich’s New Chief Executive
Karen Robson has been appointed the new chief executive of The Wallich, Wales’ largest homelessness and rough sleeping charity. With extensive experience in senior roles at various charitable organisations, Robson is well-equipped to lead The Wallich. She takes over from interim chief executive Sian Aldridge, who will return to her role as director of operations.
Robson has lived and worked in Wales for 28 years and has been actively involved in advocating for marginalised groups. She is passionate about The Wallich’s mission and values and is eager to contribute to the organisation’s efforts in changing lives for the better. Robson’s appointment followed a highly competitive selection process, and the board of trustees is optimistic about the charity’s future under her leadership.
Kilsby Williams Strengthens Audit and Accountancy Team
Kilsby Williams has made four significant appointments to its audit and accountancy team. Channa Wijesekera joins from a Big Four accountancy firm, bringing valuable experience in external and internal audits. He is joined by Stephanie Pingue, Ryan Jeffs, and Alex Manton, who will all play crucial roles in providing a range of accountancy services to clients.
Simon Tee, managing partner at Kilsby Williams, expressed his delight in welcoming the new team members. He highlighted the benefits their skills and knowledge would bring to the firm, emphasising the positive impact on clients and the team’s future growth.
Knight Frank’s Key Appointment
Rhys Price has joined Knight Frank’s Cardiff industrial team as an associate partner. With eight years of experience specialising in the industrial market in South Wales, Price will work alongside Neil Francis and Emily Wilson-Davies to expand the team’s capabilities.
Knight Frank’s Cardiff industrial team has experienced significant growth, marking its best trading year last year. Price’s appointment is expected to bolster the team’s agency and lease advisory services, continuing the trend of excellent client service.
Life Sciences Hub Wales Board Appointment
Dr Meinir Jones has been appointed to the board of Life Sciences Hub Wales. With over 25 years of clinical experience in various global healthcare settings, Dr Jones brings invaluable expertise to the organisation. She has been involved in significant healthcare initiatives, including the mobilisation of Covid-19 field hospitals and the development of the MSK quality statement.
Cari-Anne Quinn, chief executive of Life Sciences Hub Wales, praised Dr Jones’s extensive clinical and leadership experience. Quinn believes that Dr Jones’s strategic vision will enhance the organisation’s efforts to deliver high-quality care and promote economic growth in the health and social care sectors.
In summary, the latest appointments in Welsh businesses showcase a diverse range of talents and experiences being brought into key organisations. From corporate governance to community-focused roles, these new leaders are expected to drive innovation and growth.
With these strategic appointments, Welsh businesses are well-positioned to navigate future challenges and opportunities. The new leaders are set to make substantial contributions to their organisations and the wider Welsh economy.
