Member Article

Tourism entrepreneur completes IoD’s 2015 events schedule

The award-winning entrepreneur behind three of North Wales’ top attractions capped off a busy year of events for the North Wales Institute of Directors (IoD).

Sean Taylor, director at Zip World, Bounce Below and Tree Top Adventure, spoke to members at the IoD Christmas lunch, hosted at Bodysgallen Hall in Llandudno.

The former Royal Marine commando won the 2015 IoD Wales talent and innovation award, and was the only North Wales-based director shortlisted at the IoD National Awards in October.

Tourism entrepreneur Sean spoke to the sell-out event about his military history, how Zip World came to fruition, and plans for the future.

He said: “It’s been a fantastic journey so far, and one that I am sure will continue for years to come.

“Our employees have been instrumental in our success: they are brand ambassadors. We ensure they all have personal development plans, as well as making sure they realize how valued they are.

“We have exciting plans for the future, including doubling the number of zip wires at Zip World Velocity, building a 2.4 million headquarters at the Bethesda site and expanding elsewhere in the UK and beyond.

“We future proof ourselves as much as possible, and that’s where our IoD membership proves useful. Broadband can be an issue for us, which impacts on our ability to send video to the customer’s phone moments after their zip ride.

“And transport links, especially the A55, can cause people to be late for their allocated time slot.

“The IoD ensures our voice is heard by relevant people.”

IoD North Wales chair, Helen Watson, said: “After the superb year he’s had, Sean was the perfect speaker to round off an excellent year for the IoD.

“Sean has had fantastic success with his ventures, and is a great example of how focusing on innovation can bring prosperity to the region.

“We’ve had a strong programme of events that have been well received by our members and the wider business community in North Wales. We have plans in place for more high quality events and networking opportunities in the New Year.

“It’s been a positive year for businesses in North Wales. We now need to continue the progress made over the last 12 months in 2016, grasping opportunities such as greater digital infrastructure, an improving economy and linking with the Northern Powerhouse.”

The IoD is the longest-standing organisation to serve and support business leaders, with more than 100 years of service in raising professional standards. You don’t need to be a company director to join the IoD. Senior managers are welcome from large public organisations to small family firms.

Members benefit from services including free business advice, a full training programme, research facilities and networking events.

To find out more information about becoming an IoD member, contact Debbie Trotman on 02920 389 990 or email iod.wales@iod.com.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sam Harris .