Latest news with #Mentera
Business News Wales
22-05-2025
- Business
- Business News Wales
Innovation is at the Heart of Sustainable Growth in Wales
In Wales, sustainability is more than just a buzzword. It is something we are actively building into our economy, our communities and our everyday business practices. As a nation, we've set clear and ambitious goals – backed by legislation such as the Well-being of Future Generations Act – and we're beginning to see real progress. At Mentera, we believe that innovation is key to delivering a greener and more resilient Wales. We work with businesses of all sizes to help them embrace sustainable thinking and take practical steps to improve how they manage resources, reduce waste and operate with long-term environmental responsibility in mind. Some of the most exciting progress is happening in sectors that have long been part of the Welsh economy. Agriculture is one such example. Through our work with Farming Connect, we support farmers to explore everything from regenerative practices to smart water management. Farmers like Dai Evershed in Ceredigion are leading the way, adopting smart sensor technology to monitor water use and reduce emissions. His system has not only improved farm operations but also enhanced animal welfare and resilience. It's a practical demonstration of how technology and tradition can work hand in hand. The food and drink sector also continues to stand out. Across Wales, producers are not only improving their products but rethinking how those products are made, packaged and delivered. Grounds for Good, a business founded by Dr Rosie Oretti, has developed an entire product range using repurposed coffee waste. It's an inspiring example of how business leaders can tackle environmental challenges in ways that also create value for customers and communities. Both Dai and Rosie have been supported through programmes run by Mentera on behalf of Welsh Government, and they show what is possible when innovation is matched with commitment. But it's not just about individual success stories. There is increasing recognition that collaboration is vital – not just between businesses and support organisations like ours, but between sectors and across supply chains. Wales is in a good position to lead. We are small enough to move quickly, but we also have the right infrastructure and expertise in place. Our carbon specialists, such as Dr Non Williams, are working directly with businesses to develop decarbonisation plans and identify opportunities. Our support for food producers spans everything from skills development to business growth. And we are continuing to invest in programmes that promote circular economy principles and future-proof our industries. Of course, the challenges remain significant. Whether it's water management, land use or cutting emissions, Wales faces many of the same pressures seen across the UK and the world. But we also have a chance to do things differently. We can set our own standards and back the businesses that are helping to shape a more sustainable future. That's why, at Mentera, we are encouraging business leaders across Wales to take action. Whether it's through reducing waste, adopting clean technologies or working more closely with others, every step matters. The work is already underway – but there's more to do, and we want to support businesses every step of the way. Hear more from Llŷr Roberts on the Mentera podcast series Grassroots to Global here.
Business News Wales
21-05-2025
- Business
- Business News Wales
Mentera Launches Search for New Junior Non-Executive Director
Leading not-for-profit economic development company Mentera is offering an opportunity for an ambitious young individual to gain invaluable board and governance experience through its Junior Non-Executive Director role. Open to candidates under the age of 30, the successful applicant will join Mentera's Board, actively contributing to the strategic direction and growth of the company. This initiative is part of Mentera's commitment to nurturing the next generation of business leaders in Wales and building a Board that reflects the diverse communities it serves. Mentera has a 35-year track record of providing tailored support to new and expanding businesses across Wales and beyond, in key sectors such as agriculture, skills development, and food and drink. The company manages vital programmes on behalf of the Welsh Government, including aspects of Farming Connect and Cywain. Mentera's Board comprises experienced non-executive directors from diverse business, academic, and social enterprise backgrounds. Mentera is committed to increasing the diversity of its Board and welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds to ensure a broad range of perspectives are represented. Fflur Jones, Chair of the Mentera Board and Managing Partner at Cardiff law firm Darwin Gray, said: 'Mentera is dedicated to nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. We recognise that gaining board-level experience can be a significant hurdle, particularly for young professionals. The Junior Non-Executive Director role is designed to address this, offering a two-year term where the successful candidate will gain first-hand experience in shaping the future of Mentera and contributing to the prosperity of Wales.' The previous holders of the Junior Director role have highlighted the profound impact of the experience. Elin Havard, who has now become a full member of the Mentera board, said: 'The experience of being on Mentera's Board over the past three years has been extremely valuable and I am extremely grateful for the opportunity. I would encourage anyone to apply to be part of a truly progressive and exciting company – you won't get a similar opportunity to learn and build skills, while making a positive contribution to the well-being and prosperity of Wales.' Erin Thomas, a previous Junior Non-Executive Director, said: 'Being a Junior Non-Executive Director on Mentera's board has been a fantastic opportunity to develop my professional skills, understand governance, and learn from inspiring individuals. I now feel more confident to contribute strategically and would encourage anyone passionate about developing Wales to apply.' Mentera's Chief Executive, Llŷr Roberts, added: 'We are eager to welcome a new young person to our Board who is driven, a strong team player, and will bring fresh perspectives to our strategic discussions. We are particularly keen to encourage applications from individuals from all backgrounds across Wales, reflecting the diverse nature of the communities we serve. This is a unique opportunity for someone looking to make a real contribution and develop their career at a high level.' Along with the Chief Executive and Executive Management team, the Board is responsible for setting the company's strategy and overseeing its delivery. These are voluntary non-executive director positions, with the Board meeting four times a year. Some Welsh language skills are essential as meetings are conducted through the medium of Welsh. For more information about the position of Junior Non-Executive Director and how to apply, please click here. Applications close on 25 June 2025.
18-05-2025
- Business
Criccieth woman takes on new role to support Welsh businesses
Regarding her new role Emily said: "Since moving to Wales, I've been inspired by Mentera's vision for creating positive change within Welsh communities and the business landscape. I'm looking forward to leveraging my financial and governance expertise to contribute to their ambitious goals and support the thriving of purpose-led enterprises across Wales."
Business News Wales
14-05-2025
- Business
- Business News Wales
Mentera Strengthens Board With Two New Non-Executive Director Appointments
Mentera (formerly Menter a Busnes), the not-for-profit company dedicated to supporting and enabling Welsh businesses for 35 years, has appointed two new Non-Executive Directors to its Board. It said the appointments of Owen Davies and Emily Rees will further strengthen Mentera's leadership and bring a wealth of diverse experience to the organisation as it continues its mission to empower Welsh businesses to achieve world-standard. Owen Davies, originally from Swansea and now living in London, is a former pupil of Ysgol Gyfun Ystalyfera. He is the founder and Chair of Enthuse Holdings Ltd, a leading B2B and consumer media business with operations in the UK and the US. A respected entrepreneur and business leader, Owen was recognised as one of the UK's top 50 entrepreneurs in 2019. His extensive corporate experience includes roles at Unilever plc, Bass plc and DMGT plc. Owen is passionate about contributing to the Welsh business ecosystem and is eager to support Mentera's strategic direction. Owen Davies said: 'Having been born and educated in Wales, I'm incredibly keen to contribute to the growth and development of Welsh businesses. Mentera's dedication to empowering these enterprises resonates deeply with me, and I'm eager to bring my experience to support their strategic direction.' Emily Rees, lives in Criccieth and has been a Welsh learner for the past three years. She currently serves as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at Cyberfort Group Limited. Emily brings significant expertise in finance, human resources, and corporate governance, gained through her experience in various large and smaller organisations including ECCO Shoes, Pizza Express, and Tesco. She was most recently CFO of Quartix Technologies plc, and AIM-listed business for 3 years, which has its operational headquarters in Newtown. Her diverse skillset will be a valuable asset to the Mentera Board. Emily Rees said: 'Since moving to Wales, I've been inspired by Mentera's vision for creating positive change within Welsh communities and the business landscape. I'm looking forward to leveraging my financial and governance expertise to contribute to their ambitious goals and support the thriving of purpose-led enterprises across Wales.' Llŷr Roberts, CEO of Mentera, said: 'We are delighted to welcome Owen and Emily to the Mentera Board. Their impressive track records and diverse expertise will be invaluable in enriching our strategic thinking and providing fresh perspectives. Owen's entrepreneurial spirit and understanding of the wider business environment, alongside Emily's financial expertise and focus on robust governance, will be key assets as we deliver on our vision for supporting Welsh businesses to thrive.' Fflur Jones, Chair of Mentera, added: 'Following a rigorous and successful recruitment process, we are thrilled to have secured such high-calibre individuals to join our Board. Both Owen and Emily bring a genuine commitment to Wales and a passion for fostering business success. Their insights and guidance will be crucial as Mentera continues to empower Welsh entrepreneurs and businesses, strengthening the foundations of our economy and contributing to a more prosperous future for Wales.'
Business News Wales
07-05-2025
- Business
- Business News Wales
New Podcast ‘Grassroots to Global: The Podcast' Goes Behind the Scenes of Wales' Leading Business Growth Firm
Business News Wales is proud to announce the launch of a brand-new podcast series, Grassroots to Global: The Podcast, a dedicated communications initiative that will shine a light on Mentera, Wales' leading independent business development company. Designed to add a new layer of visibility to the people, projects, and leaders behind some of Wales' most impactful projects, Grassroots to Global: The Podcast will explore key issues shaping the Welsh economy and business landscape. The first three episodes of the series will feature the Mentera team, alongside guest appearances from key partners, as they delve into critical discussions on Wales' economic and entrepreneurial future. While each topic will be explored in stand-alone podcast episodes, the content will be repurposed into a wider multimedia communications package by the team at Business News Wales. This includes feature articles and editorial columns that delve deeper into key insights from each discussion, interactive social media content designed to engage audiences and spark conversation, and exclusive thought leadership pieces from the Mentera team and its partners. The Grassroots to Global: The Podcast is part of a wider communications solution developed by Business News Wales designed to elevate the work of leading Welsh organisations and provide a dynamic storytelling platform for business, innovation, and entrepreneurship in Wales. Llyr Roberts, CEO of Mentera, said: 'We're excited to partner with Business News Wales on this series and to share our vision for developing entrepreneurs, driving investment, and ensuring that Wales remains a thriving place for business and innovation. This new Grassroots to Global: The Podcast series will allow us to showcase the work we're doing while engaging directly with businesses, policymakers, and communities across Wales.' Mark Powney, MD at Business News Wales, said: ' Grassroots to Global: The Podcast is more than just a podcast – it's a full-scale communication tool designed to give Welsh business development leaders the recognition and visibility they deserve. 'By combining audio, editorial, and digital engagement, we're ensuring that the important work happening inside organisations such as Mentera reaches the widest possible audience.' The first episode of Grassroots to Global: The Podcast is available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and hundreds of other audio podcast players in addition to the Business News Wales website.
