BUSINESS support agency, Venture Wales, is continuing to expand its services across all regions in Wales and has recently appointed Dai Nicholas to head up the West Wales division. Based in the Swansea office, Dai will be managing a network of 15 business support advisors in the greater Swansea area as well as Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire. Dai, 42 from Llandybie joins the pan-Wales organisation bringing with him a wealth of experience in strategic marketing and business development for both start-up and established companies. With more than 20 years experience, fluent Welsh speaker Dai aims to play his part in helping West Wales become a thriving economic hotspot to rival the fast moving cities in south-east Wales. He said: "I will be looking to manage my team of skilled professionals and encourage new and growing businesses to tap into the services we offer across the region. We have specialists in each business development area, from financial planning and marketing to product development and staff training." Venture Wales, which has been nominated for Economic Development Project of the Year in the 2007 Regeneration and Renewal Awards, already has more than 120 business advisors and consultants across Wales. Venture Wales' managing director, Phil Cooper said: "Strong, innovative and competitive businesses are essential across Wales to help our economy thrive. By supporting businesses in West Wales we aim to help boost the local economy, create jobs and raise the standard of living. "Our expansion has meant that we have a growing need for senior staff with a track record in delivery; Dai's appointment is key to West Wales' business growth and development. He has the right mix of skills and experience behind him and together with his team they are well equipped to deliver strong business support and advice to businesses of all sizes across the region."
