Speaking at the Investing in your Future conference in Cardiff, Finance Minister Jane Hutt said:

“I am delighted to announce an extra £644,000 for the LEAD Wales project. This is another example of how the UK’s membership of the EU brings benefits to Wales.  EU funds are having a positive impact on our region, including equipping business leaders with the management skills needed to build a strong and dynamic workforce is essential to meet the labour market opportunities and challenges of the 21st Century.”

Welcoming the announcement Gary Walpole LEAD Wales Project Manager said:

“I am delighted with the further investment of ESF funding for the University’s successful Leadership Development Programme, LEAD Wales. Places on the programme are competitive and those who are selected expect to commit two days a month to the programme.  We have seen an unprecedented demand for our courses and we encourage anyone who would like to join the programme to register their interest as soon as possible. ”

Director of Melin Consultants, Jamie Best, is one of those who took part in the LEAD Wales programme. His company provides specialist technical support for the construction sector to make buildings more sustainable.

 “When the recession started to bite and the construction sector slowed down, our company slowed down as well. The LEAD Wales programme gave me all the new tools I needed to look at things in a different way and improve business performance. We are now back on track and over the last year we have seen an increase in sales of over 20 per cent and an increase in profitability of over 15 per cent, but the biggest difference for me is that we have a plan in place for our future - thanks to LEAD.”

Over 520 business leaders and directors have already participated in the LEAD Wales programme, of which almost 370 have gained qualifications,  while over 460 employers have been assisted or financially supported.