The RLSP is proud to announce the election of two new Industry Chairs, who will play a vital role in shaping the future of skills, innovation, and workforce development across the region.
Alex Machin from Carmarthenshire County Council has been appointed Chair of the Public Sector Cluster, while James Owen from Stori Cymru has been elected as the new Chair of the Digital Cluster. Both bring deep sector expertise and a strong commitment to working collaboratively with employers, education providers, and community partners.
As Industry Chairs, Alex Machin and James Owen will help guide the development of sector-specific priorities, influence regional skills planning, and ensure that the employer voice remains central to future workforce strategies. The RLSP welcomes both Chairs into their new roles and looks forward to working with them. Their contributions will be instrumental in shaping a highly skilled, future‑ready workforce that supports the economic growth and competitiveness of South West Wales.
We caught up with both Chairs:
What do you see as the biggest opportunities for your sector in South West Wales over the next few years?
Alex said:
“To use digital technologies to transform the way in which we work. But to be able to do this, we need to ensure that staff have opportunities to develop the right skills in a way that works for them. This skills development will give them the confidence to embrace change and new opportunities.”
James said:
“AI has transformed the digital and creative sectors, but the biggest opportunity isn’t the tech itself it’s how we upskill our workforce to master it. By embracing AI ethically and productively, we can strip away mundane administrative tasks and give ourselves time back to be more innovative and creative.
In South West Wales, we have a unique chance to position ourselves as a hub where technology meets high‑level craft. It’s a tool we must embrace now to ensure our region stays competitive and doesn’t get left behind in a rapidly evolving global market.”
What motivates you personally to be part of shaping the region’s skills landscape?
Alex said:
“I have worked in Learning & Development for more years than I care to mention and am passionate about the opportunities it can provide to our people and therefore our organisations. It is important to me that we give people the opportunities to be the best they can be, enabling them to provide the public services that our citizens deserve.”
James said:
“I am a firm believer in the talent we have here. I’ve studied, lived, and built my business, Stori Cymru, in this very region. My motivation is simple: I want to ensure that industry expertise directly shapes how we develop talent. As a business owner, I see how fast digital technology grows, and it’s difficult for education to react and adapt its curriculum.
Bridging the skills gap so our skills strategy reflects what employers are looking for right now will set up the future workforce. I want to advocate for the next generation of creative professionals, ensuring they have the tools and opportunities to thrive right here in South West Wales. If a boy from Llanelli can thrive in the creative industry without needing to look to the big cities, then so can the next generation.”