Welsh ICE appoints new campus director

Welsh ICE, a technology co-working space and innovation centre based in Caerphilly, has appointed Jamie McGowan as its new campus director.

He previously worked as community manager at the organisation, and has taken on an official position on the board as well as leadership of the premises.

In this new job, Jamie will continue with much of his previous duties, but will also work with the rest of the board on the planning and acceleration of ICE.

The organisation has grown rapidly over the past few years. Its campus has just grown by a further 2,500 square foot, offering companies access to smaller offices that can hold four to six-person teams.

Speaking of his appointment, Jamie said he was excited to continue to lead ICE in this new role.

“I’m delighted to have been appointed as Campus Director,”he commented.
“I’ve been working with this fantastic community here at ICE for over two years now, and have worked with William 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 1000 businesses.

McGowan explained that he’ll be working with the board to plan the future of ICE. “The foundations have already been laid, but the plans we have for the next ten years are to turn Caerphilly into a beacon of entrepreneurial spirit,” he said.

“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 ICE, said Jamie’s appointment was a vital part of the centre’s ongoing 10-year vision: “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.

He added: “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.”