New campus director to drive innovation vision
THE Innovation Centre for Enterprise in Wales (ICE Campus) has appointed Jamie McGowan as its new campus director.
Mr McGowan, formerly the community manager at Welsh ICE, will take an official board position as well as overall leadership of the Welsh ICE Campus.
As part of the role, he will continue his previous leadership as community manager, as well as working with the rest of the board in the planning and progression of the ICE vision.
The news comes after the campus expanded by a further 2,500 square foot, offering space for smaller offices which are perfect for four to six-person teams.
Mr McGowan said: “I’m delighted to have been appointed as campus director. I’ve been working with this fantastic community here at ICE for over two years now, and have worked with [chairman] William Record and the board for a number of months, so it’s exciting to be able to take the centre forward.
“We have a fantastic community here at ICE, with over 170 businesses and 400 entrepreneurs and staff on campus. I am looking forward to working with the rest of the board to carry out our vision to grow Welsh ICE into a community of over 1,000 businesses.
“The foundations have already been laid, but the plans we have for the next 10 years are to turn Caerphilly into a beacon of entrepreneurial spirit. It will be an example of what can be achieved when those with the drive to start and grow a business are given the right environment, support and investment to succeed.
“ICE will be an example not only to the rest of the UK, but also across Europe and beyond.”
William Record, chairman of the Welsh ICE, said: “Jamie brings a refreshing energy to ICE; his motivation and drive is infectious, not just to the board, but to the community in general.
“We have some ambitious plans for ICE in Caerphilly, with structures to be built, spaces to be shaped, connections to be made and support systems to be bolstered.
“Jamie is extraordinarily able and is the right person to lead the community through these plans – the board are very excited to have a more active role with him in this regard.
“As we move into a new phase at ICE, we are confident in the environment and work-lifestyle balance that we want to create in Caerphilly. We will be announcing details of our 10-year vision soon, but it’s exciting to say the least.”
Welsh ICE is currently running its ICE 50 scheme, in which 50 start-up businesses will receive a fully-funded package including a full-time desk, a tailored mentoring programme, creative workshops, telephone and high-speed internet access and one-to-one support for 12 months.