We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all of our sponsors for their generous support, which has been instrumental in making this event possible.
Steven Hesketh CEO The Hospitality Hero and Savvy Hotel Group
Laura Gough & Sasha Kenney Wrexham University Enterprise Team
Q&A
Break. Opportunity to visit exhibitors
Rhys Parry The Money Monk
Julian Whiting Appointment Setter
Aaron Sussex Sales Geek UK
Session 2: Maximise your Sales 11:30 12:45
Lunch and Networking. Opportunity to visit exhibitors
Session 3: Why Intellectual Property matters to every business
14:00 15:20 15:10 15:20
Think IPO doesn’t apply to you? Think again!
Emma Richards IPO
Professor Joe Yates Wrexham University Vice Chancellor
Event Round Up and Thanks Ben Cottam
Close
Host
Gemma
Casey Editor
of Business News Wales
Gemma is the Editor of independent media and communications firm Business News Wales. She started her career in journalism on local newspapers and became Wales Editor at the Press Association before joining BBC Wales, where she worked in radio, TV news and current affairs. She then led a pilot programme in hyperlocal broadcasting which set out to test how the medium could support local SMEs.
She spent a decade at a major high street bank, looking after regional PR as well as hosting events for businesses of all sizes and in all sectors, leading on its support programmes for SMEs, with a particular focus on initiatives for women in business and ethnic minority entrepreneurs.
Gemma is a passionate advocate for SMEs, something she puts down to growing up in and around a small business in the South Wales Valleys which was in her family for four generations.
Business News Wales is an independent digital media platform dedicated to providing intelligent, targeted news and analysis to the Welsh business community. They connect organisations, policymakers, and entrepreneurs through sector-specific content, campaigns, and events that promote sustainable economic growth across Wales.
With a team of journalists and storytellers located in all regions of Wales, their platforms, communication services and highly targeted distribution networks offer clients a proven, strategically connected one-stop-shop solution for business sectors in Wales and beyond.
Speakers
John Hurst FSB Wales Chair
Company Information:
John is co-director of Cardiff-based B2B IT Services. He and his business partner completed a management buy-in of the company in 2016 and have since built a team that shares their vision for excellence in IT. The business has gone from strength to strength and now operates from offices in Cardiff, Torfaen, and Bristol.
John has previously worked across manufacturing, technology, and professional services, giving him a broad perspective on the realities of running a business. Having spent years working in international trade, exporting to over 100 countries, he understands the challenges of growing a business in an unpredictable world.
John studied Business Studies at Cardiff Metropolitan University before earning an MBA with distinction from Cardiff University Business School.
As well as being a business owner, he is a husband and a dad with a deep love for Wales - its people, its landscapes, and the energy of its business community. John has also been an active voice in business and policy for years. He has been a member of FSB’s Wales Policy Unit for seven years and represented FSB on the Ministerially appointed Apprenticeship Advisory Board for five years. He has also held other board positions and has given evidence to the Senedd Accounts Committee, bringing his experience and insight to help shape policies that support small businesses.
Speakers
Joe Bickerton
Tourism Manager ‘This Is Wrexham’
Wrexham – How We Reacted When Hollywood Came Calling! In 2021, Wrexham and the rest of Wales was reeling from the pandemic. Hospitality faced the huge task of rebuilding and visitor confidence was at an all time low. Prior to this, Wrexham had been on a somewhat upward trajectory, but nothing like the shot in the arm it received when two Hollywood stars took over the city’s football club in October that year. The next 3-years would provide a platform for investment, visitor growth and confidence on a different scale...
Company Information:
Joe took up the position of Tourism Manager with Wrexham County Borough Council in 2011 and is responsible for the delivery of the county’s ‘Destination Management Plan’.
In this role Joe oversees all Destination Management and visitor economy marketing activity for Wrexham and North East Wales, as well as successfully working with a number of partners to develop the tourism sector, and sitting on the North Wales Regional Tourism Board.
The team at ‘This Is Wrexham’ are passionate about linking up all the great places that make the area what it is, showcasing the people and ingredients behind great visitor experiences. From the big attractions to the small independent hospitality businesses and the best-kept secret gems that deserve recognition, to helping support new entrepreneurs who see Wrexham as a base to thrive.
Effectively positioning Wrexham as a must-visit destination in Wales has been a key project for Joe, with his commitment to training and capacity building within the local tourism sector having empowered businesses to enhance their offerings, further driving economic benefits to the community. He continues to ensure that Wrexham County Borough Council remains competitive in the ever-evolving tourism market.
At this session Steven will discuss all things tourism within Wrexham, from why he first got involved and bought a hotel in the city, to the long-term plans in place and the want to collaborate with other businesses within Wrexham.
Company Information:
Steven Hesketh FIH is a global hospitality leader, multi-award winner, and soon-to-be published author.
With 30+ years’ experience across hotels, restaurants, events, and festivals, he chairs Chester Hospitality, is Vice-Chair of Liverpool Hospitality, and Co-Chair of UK Hospitality (North). His portfolio spans six properties across Merseyside, Cheshire, and North Wales, and he delivers the 25,000+ attendee: DevaFest.
He also founded The Hospitality Hero to promote hospitality careers, and support, train, and inspire future generations.
In this session Laura will explore how the University is supporting business growth, innovation and collaboration across North Wales and beyond. She will discuss how the Enterprise Team is helping organisations of all sizes to access talent, knowledge and funding, while building meaningful partnerships with long-term impact. Whether you’re a small start-up or a global organisation, discover how Wrexham University can work with you to support growth and innovation.
Company Information:
Laura leads the strategic direction of enterprise activity at Wrexham University, driving business engagement and developing impactful partnerships. With a strong background in innovation, knowledge exchange and business development, Laura works across sectors to connect industry with university expertise, talent, and resources.
Wrexham University plays a pivotal role in the North Wales business ecosystem, specialising in practical, real-world engagement - offering tailored support through the following focus areas: Knowledge Transfer & Innovation, Entrepreneurship, CPD & Skills, and Work-Related Learning. Their mission is to help businesses grow, innovate and succeed through meaningful collaboration.
Beyond Business Plans: Embedding the Entrepreneurial Mindset in Education
In this session Sasha will highlight how Wrexham University is going beyond traditional business education to embed the entrepreneurial mindset and skills into the student experience – empowering the next generation of adaptable, creative and opportunity-focused individuals. She will also discuss as to why this matters for small businesses and how they can get involved.
Company Information:
Sasha Kenney is the Entrepreneurship Co-ordinator at Wrexham University, bringing over 20 years of experience in entrepreneurship to her role. She is dedicated to building a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem that supports not only students and graduates but also the wider community.
Sasha leads a range of strategic initiatives focused on developing entrepreneurial mindsets and practical skills, empowering individuals to thrive in today’s world. From delivering high-impact workshops to curating flagship events like the Celebration of Entrepreneurship, she is committed to nurturing entrepreneurial development and strengthening the ecosystem at the University and beyond.
The Entrepreneurship Team is dedicated to developing confident, capable and creative changemakers through a dynamic and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem. The team supports students, graduates and alumni at every stage of their start-up journey, nurturing talent, encouraging innovation and building meaningful connections across North Wales. Whether it’s through tailored on-to-one mentoring, their biannual Board of Investment, or access to collaborative incubation spaces, the team offer the tools and support needed to turn ideas into impactful ventures
The 50K Treasure Hunt - How to make more money with what you already have!
One of Rhys’s firmest beliefs is that you should never have to choose between spending time with those you love and financial freedom. With ‘Recurring Revenue’ being the ticket to the peace of mind that you are searching for, Rhys will demonstrate how to achieve this.
Company Information:
Rhys is a Labradoodle parent, trainee priest, proud Welsh-Australian and huge recurring revenue nerd. He has been supporting businesses for about 15 years now and seeing the incredible difference recurring revenue can make, it’s become a mission of his to help great humans make as much good money as possible: clients you love, work you love and juicy recurring revenue.
At this session Julian will discuss the first stage in helping you to maximise your sales, by learning how your business can attract new customers
Company Information:
Julian is an experienced freelance Business Development specialist & Appointment Setter, booking business appointments and opening doors and opportunities for individuals and organisations. Skilled in cold calling, lead generation and relationship building at senior levels, Julian has the ability to make meaningful connections that drive real results and help organisations grow.
He is a retired Metropolitan Police officer which included a short stint at Buckingham Palace. He has over 20 years’ experience in business and event facilitation and is creative at networking and making things happen, with a strong track record of connecting with decision-makers, booking highvalue meetings and opening up new business opportunities across sectors including construction, technology, education and housing.
He is passionate about truth and justice, particularly in the safeguarding arena, and likes to motivate the motivators and help people achieve closure with difficult cases. He also works alongside an architect and with Kingdom Living, who are all about building Affordable Homes and communities, and during the Christmas period he is a freelance Santa working at various locations in the UK.
www.linkedin.com/in/julianwhiting
Speakers
Aaron Sussex Sales Geek North Wales
Do You Love Your Customers?
As businesses we spend a lot of time, money and other resources winning new customers and when we do, we’re thrilled that someone has decided to partner with us! We hope to have our customers for a long time and more importantly potentially taking up other products and/or services along the way. In this session we’ll explore customer excellence and how to create a deeper bond with them so they always stay with us!
Company Information:
Sales Geek was founded to change the way the world perceives sales, with a notion that sales could, and should, be better. With ‘Sales’ often seen as a dirty word, they are determined to do something about it, with part of that mission centred around supporting small businesses and providing them to access to top-level sales talent when ordinarily they would be priced out of the market.
By providing a Part Time Sales Director solution, businesses can benefit from years of experience without having to commit to the recruitment of a full-time director. This help aid specific projects with the main focus of increasing sales and revenue, alongside sale training opportunities, all accredited by the Institute of Sales Professionals.
During this session Emma will highlight the importance of Intellectual Property (IP) when starting a business, providing an overview of each of the IP rights including Patents, Trade Marks, Registered Designs and Copyright. She will also explain the differences in clear terms and how they can protect the creative elements of a business.
Company Information:
When starting a business there are many things to be considered and Intellectual Property is probably one of those subjects that is overlooked. This could be due to a number of reasons, a lack of awareness, a fear of it being too complicated or the worry over an additional expense.
By explaining IP rights by breaking them down into simple terms that are easy to understand, this session will hopefully break down the barriers that may face businesses when considering protection over intellectual assets, by maximising their value and utilising them as an addition to your business portfolio.
Emma has worked for the IPO for 25 years and during this time she has given guidance and support to thousands of SME’s. Due to her experience, she can explain the different elements of IP protection and how they can assist businesses in developing an IP strategy, adding value to their company by protecting their creative assets.
Emma is currently a Regional Policy Advisor for the Devolved Nations working closely with stakeholders across these regions to influence IP interventions at the right time.
Professor Joe Yates Wrexham University Vice Chancellor
Professor Joe Yates joined Wrexham University as Vice-Chancellor in August 2024.
Professor Yates achieved a BA in History, Politics and Media, and went on to be awarded his DPhil in Criminology and Social Policy in 2007 from De Montfort University. He gained an MA in Social Work from Nottingham University and is a qualified social worker and trained Probation Officer. He spent 15 years working in the social policy and criminal justice field as a social worker, a youth worker, a youth justice worker and a youth offending manager.
In 2007, he joined Liverpool John Moores University as Head of Criminology where he established and co-directed the Centre for the Study of Crime, Criminalisation and Social Exclusion. In 2011 he was appointed as Director of the School of Humanities and Social Science and led the development of the Liverpool Centre for Advanced Policing Studies.
Demonstrating a clear commitment to the prospects of young people, education and social justice, Professor Yates has held a range of voluntary positions on the governing bodies of various schools, colleges and community groups. He is currently the Director of an International Youth Justice Symposium at the Inter University Centre in Croatia and the Chair of the Regional Governance Board for Cradle to Career, a grass roots placebased programme that brings people and organisations together to tackle inequalities across the Liverpool City Region.
Professor Yates is a Professor in Criminology and Social policy and has researched and published in the field of youth justice with a particular focus on policy responses to marginalised children involved in crime and antisocial behaviour. He has conducted research for the College of Policing, Home Office and the Youth Justice Board of England and Wales as well as for a range of community groups, non-governmental organisations and charities.
Ben Cottam Head of FSB Wales
Ben Cottam is the Head of the Federation of Small Businesses in Wales, a role he has held since 2016. In this role he leads the largest business representation organisation in Wales, representing 10,000 business members, and is active in a range of conversations about the development of the Welsh economy, entrepreneurship and business support. Ben sits on a number of boards representing the voice of small businesses including the Social Partnership Council and the Town Centre Oversight Board.
Ben joined the FSB from accountancy body ACCA where he served as head of ACCA Cymru. However, he has previously worked for the FSB, having held the Policy Manager role at FSB Wales some years ago. Early in his career, Ben served as Press Officer and Advisor for a former Assembly Member during the earliest days of the National Assembly.
Exhibitors
Wrexham University –Enterprise Team
The Enterprise Team at Wrexham University is dedicated to positively impacting the business community by providing essential tools with their mission to foster an environment of knowledgesharing and effective partnering. They believe that education should be accessible to all, from start-ups and young graduates embarking on new careers, to business leaders and innovators, equipping individuals with the skills and knowledge to reach their full potential.
The Development Bank of Wales was set up by the Welsh Government to support the economy of Wales by making it easier for businesses to get the finance needed to start up, strengthen and grow. By providing sustainable, effective finance where options have seemed limited, they can bring ambitions to life and fuel possibilities for people, businesses and communities in Wales.
Contact Details:
James Ryan developmentbank.wales info@developmentbank.wales
FSB
From start up to scale up, the FSB are here to help you on your business journey with a mission to help smaller businesses achieve their ambitions. We offer our members a wide range of vital business services including advice, financial expertise, support and a powerful voice in government.
Contact Details:
Mike Learmond www.fsb.org.uk mike.learmond@fsb.org.uk
Doodly Dog
DoodlyDog is a WordPress website designer, delivering quality websites, with an emphasis on speed and affordability and also offers domains, hosting, design, SEO, support and DIY help. Whether you are a small business looking to sell business to consumer or business to business and looking to set up an online shop or if you just need a website to tell people who you are and what you do, DoodlyDog can help.
Contact Details:
Eric Davies doodlydog.wales eric@doodlydog.wales
Busnes @ Llandrillo Menai
Busnes @ Llandrillo Menai is the name for the employer engagement service of Grwp Llandrillo Menai, the parent organisation of Coleg Llandrillo, Coleg Menai and Coleg Meirion-Dwyfor. They offer training, development and support packages to ensure that all staff are equipped with the skills and qualifications to enable performance at the highest level.
Contact Details:
Stephen Howell Lloyd www.gllm.ac.uk lloyd4s@gllm.ac.uk
Business News Wales
Business News Wales is an independent digital media platform dedicated to providing intelligent, targeted news and analysis to the Welsh business community. They connect organisations, policymakers, and entrepreneurs through sectorspecific content, campaigns, and events that promote sustainable economic growth across Wales.
Sales Geek was founded to change the way the world perceives sales, with a notion that sales could, and should, be better. With ‘Sales’ often seen as a dirty word, they are determined to do something about it, with part of that mission centred around supporting small businesses and providing them to access to top-level sales talent when ordinarily they would be priced out of the market.
The Intellectual Property Office (IPO) is the official government body responsible for Intellectual Property (IP) rights including patents, designs, trademarks and copyright. By operating and maintaining a clear and accessible IP system in the UK, this encourages innovation, helping the economy and society to benefit from knowledge and ideas, ensuring people get the right type of protection for their creation or invention.
Exporting can transform almost every aspect of your business, which is why each year Welsh Government’s Trade Team supports hundreds of small and medium sized enterprises on their export journey. Their International Trade Advisors have a track record of working with businesses, whether they’re new to international trade or established exporters looking to further expand their reach. They can help you consider if exporting is right for you, explore new markets, identify new opportunities and overcome logistical and regulatory obstacles. If you’re offering services, licences or products and would like more information, talk to one of their Trade Advisers.
Contact Details:
Steven Owen businesswales.gov.wales/export InternationalTrade@gov.wales
Flintshire County Council
Flintshire Business Development Team offers comprehensive support to businesses of all sizes across the county. They assist with supply chain development, recruitment, staff training, identifying relevant funding opportunities and we facilitate valuable connections through business forums and networking events. The team also provides support to businesses looking to locate within the county, dedicated to fostering growth, resilience, and longterm success for businesses across the region.
Located in the borderlands of North Wales, less than four miles from the centre of Wrexham, Hotel Wrexham is a popular destination for weddings, private events and for families and couples looking to explore this idyllic region. They pride themselves on delivering an exceptional experience with warm hospitality and comfortable accommodation at this award-winning hotel, catering for your every need.
Contact Details:
Ele Minton hotelwrexham.co.uk ele@thehospitalityhero.com
Menter Môn – Busnes Cymru
For 30 years, Mentor Môn has collaborated with businesses, communities, public sector and individuals to deliver meaningful and innovative projects. It is a not-for-profit social enterprise that delivers projects and services across North Wales, seeking to add value to the region, and create opportunity, through initiatives such as the Morlais Tidal Energy project, and delivery of the Business Wales contract.
Contact Details:
Richard Fraser-Williams businesswales.gov.wales richard.fraser-williams@annog.com
Eryri Consulting
Eryri Consulting Ltd was founded in 2016 and are based in North Wales, with the ability to service clients remotely across the UK. With all consultants being highly qualified Lead Auditors with extensive training in all aspects of Health & Safety, CDM Regulations, Environmental Management, Fire Safety, Cyber/Information Security and Website Design/Development, their first class service is to the highest standard and compliance.
Secure Chain is a Cyber Security Managed Service and consultancy provider, specialising in providing a wide array of secure technology solutions and services to businesses and organisations across various industries. They provide quality services to all businesses, regardless of size, ensuring they received the protection they deserve 365 days of the year.
The Defence and Security Accelerator is a UK government funder of innovation for both Defence and Security, with the aim to find and fund exploitable innovation for a safer future. They have a range of funding to accelerate ideas from any sector for the benefit of Defence and Security, and are looking for ideas from a diverse range of innovators and have a team of innovation partners, based all over the UK, who are here to help guide those interested in the funding available. Tom Adamson is the innovation partner in Wales.
Contact Details:
Tom Adamson www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ministry-ofdefence tjadamson@dasa.mod.gov.uk
Ministry of Defence (MOD)
Tony Fish is the Regional Employer Engagement Director (North & Mid Wales) for the Ministry of Defence. Tony works with employers to offer support and advice on the benefits of employing veterans and family members, supporting reservists in your workforce and signing the Armed Forces Covenant and progressing through the Employer Recognition Scheme.
Contact Details:
Tony Fish www.armedforcescovenant.gov.uk wa-reed2@rfca.mod.uk
Coleg Cambria
At Cambria for Business, they’re passionate about helping your business grow. Whether you need support with developing your workforce or bringing in fresh talent via apprenticeships and work experience, they have the solutions you need. They’re positioned to assist businesses of all size, sector and maturity. As part of Coleg Cambria, one of the leading colleges in Wales they are here to tailor support that future proof your business.
All My Waste are a Registered Waste Carrier with the Environment Agency, ensuring the responsible disposal of all waste. They work with charities, scrap metal dealers and other merchants to reuse or recycle as much of your waste as possible. Covering a 60 mile radius of Chester, covering Blackpool to the North, Holyhead to the West, Derby to the East and Ludlow to the South, they are a reliable, trustworthy team of people who will turn up when they say and do a great job, diverting over 90% of waste from landfill.
Unlock Expertise, Talent, and Innovation for Your Business. At Bangor University, they’re proud to have supported businesses across North Wales and beyond. With a strong track record of successful collaborations, they help organisations solve challenges, access graduate talent, and build lasting, mutually beneficial partnerships. Their Business Services include: Expert Consultancy from Leading Academics, Research & Development and Innovation Support, Advanced Analytical and Prototyping Services, Access to Specialist Facilities and Equipment, CPD, Skills and Training Programmes, and Graduate Internships and Student-led Projects. Funding support, including our Skills and Innovation Vouchers may be available to help you access these services. Partner with Bangor University to drive innovation, boost productivity, and grow your business.
Contact Details:
Bryn Jones www.bangor.ac.uk/business-services bryn.jones@bangor.ac.uk
Wrexham County Borough Council Business & Investment Team
Wrexham County Borough Councils Business and Investment team offer a free, impartial and confidential support service to anyone with a business interest in Wrexham (from start-ups, inward investors, to existing small / large businesses and social enterprises). As well as offering guidance and both internal and external sign-posting as relevant, the resources they can provide access to could help you to: Start A Business, Identify Grants/Funding, Network with Businesses, Market your Business, Access Document Templates, Research your Market, Check Credit Worthiness of Businesses, Identify Tendering Opportunities, Employ Staff and Develop your Workforce and Compliance with Regulations/Licences.
Contact Details:
Adrian Tinsley www.wrexham.gov.uk/business-and-investmentsupport businessline@wrexham.gov.uk
SuperTemps
SuperTemps has been recruiting throughout North Wales since 1980, making them the longestestablished recruitment agency in the region. Familyowned and run, they remain fiercely independent and are proud of it, meaning they are agile and able to adapt quicky to the specific needs of the employers and candidates they work with. With 40+ years they have great relationships with fantastic employers, being privy to opportunities that don’t always hit the open marketplace.
Contact Details:
Sarah Ellwood www.supertemps.co.uk sarahellwood@supertemps.co.uk
M-Sparc
M-Sparc is the home of innovation and excitement in North Wales, with expert business support available to help you and your business thrive and grow. From business support and planning, to marketing, events and low carbon, the M-Sparc team has a wide range of expertise, ready to help you take your business to the next level.
Contact Details:
Sion Wynne m-sparc.com s.wynne@bangor.ac.uk
North Wales Social
North Wales Social is an online business community created by and for the people of North Wales. The primary aim is to provide unbiased help and guidance for running a successful business in the region. The platform brings together individuals and businesses online and through hosted networking events on a social basis sharing news and events relevant to the local community.
Contact Details:
Dave Ledward northwalessocial.co.uk dave@northwalessocial.co.uk
MoneyWorks Wales
Moneyworks Wales is a collaboration of not-for-profit financial cooperatives, working together to build a brighter financial future for Welsh employees. They aim to support the financial wellbeing of Welsh workers by offering affordable loans and straightforward savings, helping to drive money back into the local communities.
Contact Details: Rob Jones www.moneyworkswales.com Robert.Jones@cambriancu.com
RCS Wales
RCS is a social enterprise based in North Wales that delivers personalised support, training and therapies to help individuals and businesses across Wales improve their wellbeing for work. They pride themselves on delivering high quality and engaging wellbeing training, including Mental Health First Aid, Wellbeing Champions, Mental Health Awareness, Motivation and Resilience, Living with Change and Dealing with Stress. Their quality services transform thousands of lives and businesses every year.
Contact Details:
Sian Parry rcs-wales.co.uk/en hello@rcs-wales.co.uk
Aran Hufen Ia
Aran Hufen Ia is a small batch artisan ice cream business based in the heart of Snowdonia, proudly using Welsh milk and natural ingredients to create their delicious flavours. They offer catering for corporate events, weddings, private functions, and more – with their vintage-style ice cream bike bringing a fun, memorable twist to any occasion. Whether you’re planning a product launch, team celebration, or summer wedding, they can provide flexible packages tailored to your needs. Their friendly service and highquality ice cream ensure your guests enjoy a unique, feel-good experience that adds something truly special to your event.
