Richard Selby MBE is the Managing Director of Pro Steel Engineering in Pontypool, Chair of the Torfaen Strategic Economic Forum, National Chair of the Institute of Directors Wales and Chair of the Prices Trust Wales Development Committee. Richard was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant of Gwent in 2021 and awarded an MBE in the 2023 King's birthday honours.

With over 40 years in manufacturing, I rose from an apprentice to Managing Director at Lucas Girling Cwmbran. In 20+ years in senior executive roles globally, I specialized in the premium automotive sector. Since 2018, I've supported Welsh businesses, notably collaborating on a CPAP machine during the pandemic. As a board member and Vice Chair of the Torfaen Strategic Economic Forum, I'm committed to advancing the Welsh and UK economy. Dedicating one day weekly to community service, I chair IOD Southeast Wales and mentor for the Princes Trust. In 2003, I earned an MBA focused on "Performance Measurement and Systems Thinking," applying insights to enhance business performance.

Ashley is Managing Partner of Everett Tomlin Lloyd and Pratt Solicitors, a legal practice with their head office in Pontypool since the 1800’s. The firm assists numerous local businesses with a wide variety of legal issues and Ashley has been providing HR and regulatory advice to business clients since he joined in 1997. Ashley is Company Secretary of TESF, current Chair of Torfaen Business Voice and Treasurer of Monmouthshire Law Society.

Ed Gooderham is a partner at Green & Co Accountants in Cwmbran. Since 2006, he has played an important role in the growth of the firm. Ed is an expert in financial and business planning for small and medium-sized businesses, with a focus on property developers and doctors. He helps companies expand and improve their operations. Apart from his professional work, he is also involved in community service through charity boards, church involvement and participation in the Torfaen Strategic Economic Forum. The forum seeks to enhance local living standards by boosting businesses and fostering job opportunities.

Claire is part of the CIPD Engagement Team in Wales, where she works closely with members across the region to strengthen connections and support professional development. With a background in employer engagement within the Further Education sector, her focus is on building meaningful partnerships that drive positive outcomes for both individuals and organisations.

Sarah-Jane is a Director and Company Secretary at A P Waters Building Contractors LTD. Sarah-Jane is a retired Head Teacher, with experience working for Local Authorities, regional consortium and Welsh Assembly Government. She has recently joined the board of the Gwent Training Group and is passionate about supporting training and skill development ensuring a continuation of quality trades within industries.

Alison’s career has spanned over 35 years in the textile industry, and she has managed Textile businesses within Torfaen & neighbouring boroughs. Her career started with Coats Viyella, a Blaenavon based, vertically integrated clothing manufacturing business. Her experience extends to Manufacturing, Creative & Technical design, Logistics, Business Development, Sales & Marketing. Alison is a Mental Health First Aider and a skilled listener, an invaluable resource in everyday life. Alison’s hobbies are unsurprisingly textile related and she enjoys sewing, textile art and teaching sewing in the community. “I am delighted to be joining the Forum as Business Development Officer. I am looking forward to working with businesses in Torfaen. Through collaboration with local council officials, I hope to use my experience and skills to help businesses grow, and in turn, contribute to the growth of the local economy.”