Rolls-Royce boss aims to put Wales on the global map
The chief executive of RollsRoyce is the latest highprofile figure to back an initiative aiming to create a million-strong Welsh diaspora community of to promote Wales to the world.
Warren East has become a founding patron of GlobalWelsh, a community interest company whose remit includes promoting Wales as a business investment location and supporting Welsh firms looking to drive international sales.
Mr East has been at the helm of the aerospace giant since 2015, having previously led Cambridge-based Microprocessor firm ARM.
Born in Aberdeen to a Welsh mother, and having grown up in Monmouthshire, he retains a strong sense of Welsh identity.
He proudly wears the Welsh dragon on everything from T-shirts to cufflinks, follows Welsh rugby and regularly travels to Wales to meet with business associates, family and friends.
It was also recently confirmed that Aberbargoed-born Mike Batt, founder and executive chair of one of world’s biggest travel agency firms, Travel Leaders Group, also announced his backing for GlobalWelsh.
Mr East said: “I believe GlobalWelsh can be a catalyst for change in terms of the way we reach out to our overseas community and help to spark new ideas, opportunities and connections which will not only benefit individuals but whole communities and even Wales as a whole.
“I’m keenly aware, as a chief executive and an engineer, that we need to collaborate and forge partnerships to stay competitive in a global market at a time of exciting change and opportunity, triggered by the ever more widespread use of technology as the world struggles to adapt to its growing population.
“There are so many business leaders out there who are keen to influence change. Closer to home, in the short term Brexit is a major distraction for UK businesses too.
“I think people like me do have a role to play. I can share what I know about fighting for and growing market share, about modern design and production, and turning all these into successful business, and as a result, help to strengthen our competitive edge.
“So I’m delighted to be a part of something positive which will have a great impact and legacy for Wales. As a country, we don’t always get the full recognition we deserve on a world stage.
“We have to be smart about how we grow and deploy Welsh talent – and it’s more important than ever we project our talents globally.”
GlobalWelsh founder Walter May said: “Warren’s stellar career has already inspired so many people and we’re thrilled that his involvement will help people in our global community with their own business and growth ambitions.
“Our founding patrons play an important role as advocates of Welsh ambition and achievement and enthusiasts for their professions.
“We’re steadily gaining momentum as more founding partners join the movement and new community members from all corners of the globe sign up on a daily basis.
“Each and every one of us shares a common sense of pride and passion for Wales – with the added commitment to taking action to help and inspire others.”