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

Llinos Neale, 32, will take over the role on June 20, having previously worked as the Community Manager at Welsh ICE, which is based on Caerphilly Business Park.

Welsh ICE currently has around 700 members and is the largest co-working space in Wales.

Ms Neale originally joined the organisation as a receptionist back in 2017, having previously worked as the Operations Manager at Cardiff-based charity Pedal Power.

Ms Neale said: “Having started at the grassroots of ICE, I’ve followed the journey of so many of its members, sharing the highs and lows as they start and grow.

“The working environment has changed over the past two to three years and there are more challenges to overcome. Demand for small office space is growing, but many workers are still adjusting to the changes and weighing up the balance of going back to the office or working from home.

“Co-working remains more than just a place to work, however. 77% of our member businesses have a survival rate of three years or more – higher than the UK average of 61%. When you consider that three-quarters of our businesses have formal agreements with each other – that tells a story.”

She continued: “What ICE provides is the environment for people to succeed. When people work together, they form a community and grow. 

“My role now is to ensure that ICE continues to be the place where people choose to start, grow and build their businesses and careers. That job will be made easier thanks to the fantastic support of my team and the board, and I look forward to building the strategy that can take the company and community forward.” 

Anthony Record MBE, Chair of Welsh ICE, said: “Having worked in and experienced all aspects of the business – Llinos has a perspective that is unique and gives her a valuable understanding of our ethos that can be difficult to replicate. 

“As a board, we feel Llinos has the ideas and the attitude to lead the organisation and that she will continue to build on our proud achievements. ICE is needed now more than ever, and through our services and Llinos’ leadership, we will be able to continue our significant contribution to Welsh businesses and the wider economy.”

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