Start-up business hub Welsh ICE appoints new chief executive

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The Caerphilly-based Welsh Innovation Centre for Enterprise (Welsh ICE) has announced the appointment of a new chief executive.

Lesley Williams, who was previously the organisation’s outreach and partnership director, has taken over the helm from Llinos Neale, who has moved into a non-executive board position.

The changes mean Welsh ICE’s board will now have a 50/50 gender split.

Welsh ICE, which is based on Caerphilly Business Park, currently has around 700 members, including Caerphilly Observer, and is the largest co-working space in Wales.

Ms Williams, who joined Welsh ICE in 2019, has been key in developing the company’s outreach work.

During her time at Welsh ICE, she has worked with a range of organisations, from youth to social enterprise services and local councils, as well as the Welsh Government.

Before joining Welsh ICE, Ms Williams ran her own business internationally exporting hand-made teddy bears.

She was also a Big Ideas Wales Young Ambassador and Role Model, as well as a board member for the Women’s Enterprise Hub.

Ms Williams said: “I am passionate about the Welsh ICE community, supporting business owners to succeed across Wales, and championing diversity in entrepreneurship.

“I look forward to building on the great work that Llinos has done.”

Welsh ICE chairman Anthony Record described Ms Williams as an “invaluable member of the team” and praised the “incredible work” she has done to build relationships with the community.

He continued: “I am confident that she will be an excellent leader for Welsh ICE, and I look forward to supporting her in her new role.”

Meanwhile, Ms Neale – who first joined ICE as a receptionist in 2017 – said she was “excited to continue to grow and support the company in this new capacity.”

Elsewhere, Kieran Russell has been promoted to chief of operations, while Rachel Harris has become chief creative officer.

Welsh ICE is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Government.

For more information on Welsh ICE, contact hello@welshice.org or call 02920 140040.