At the start of this year, we had the pleasure of welcoming Dean Ward as the new Chair of the Regional Learning and Skills Partnership (RLSP). Dean brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to our partnership, and we are excited to see the positive impact he will make.
To help you get to know Dean better, we recently caught up with him:
What inspired you to start a business in South West Wales?
South West Wales has always been home, and I’ve seen first-hand the potential this region has. There’s a strong work ethic here, and I’ve always believed that with the right vision and drive, businesses can thrive. I wanted to build something meaningful—something that not only creates jobs and opportunities but also helps to shape the region’s economic future. The combination of talent, ambition, and the right support structures makes this a fantastic place to grow a business.
Can you share a memorable moment from your career that had a significant impact on you?
One of the standout moments was my recent trip to Hong Kong with Tech West of England Advocates. Meeting such a diverse range of high-caliber professionals and potential partners really reinforced the global opportunities available for businesses based in Wales. It highlighted how the right connections and strategic vision can open doors far beyond what you initially imagine. That experience strengthened my resolve to build stronger international links for the businesses I’m involved in.
What excites you most about being chair of the RLSP?
The opportunity to make a real difference. South West Wales has immense potential, and by bringing together businesses, education providers, and policymakers, we can create a skills system that truly supports economic growth. I’m passionate about making sure that young people and workers in our region have access to the right training and career pathways, ensuring businesses have the talent they need to succeed. It’s about building a future where both individuals and industries thrive.
What drives you to get up and go to work every day?
I’m driven by the challenge of building something valuable—whether it’s growing businesses, creating opportunities for others, or solving complex problems. I enjoy the process of taking an idea and turning it into a reality, whether that’s expanding DCW Group, launching new initiatives like the SmartScore Barometer, or working on property investment opportunities. Seeing progress and making an impact is what keeps me motivated.
What are some of your hobbies or interests outside of work?
I’m always up for a good challenge, whether it’s in business or personal interests. I enjoy traveling, particularly when it involves exploring new markets and meeting interesting people. I also have a strong interest in a number of hobbies from coarse fishing (when not cold and wet!) Rugby and singing opera (yes im a classically trained operatic tenor!) When I do get downtime, I like keeping active and spending time with wife Caroline and 2 boys Christopher and Jacob and spend most weekends on the side of the football or rugby pitches doing the dad thing!.