West Midlands Tech Commissioner appointed to lead region’s digital economy

Martin Ward has been appointed as West Midlands’ first Tech Commissioner to act as a high-profile leader for the region’s digital and tech sector.

In his new role, Martin will now act as an advocate for the West Midlands both nationally and internationally, encouraging big firms to establish a presence in the area and working closely alongside Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands and chair of the WMCA (West Midlands Combined Authority), to ensure the region’s digital and tech strategy delivers for everyone.

He will also look to spearhead an international network of West Midlands Global Tech Ambassadors who will be tasked with ensuring the region’s tech sector retains its position as the UK’s fastest growing, as it has proudly been for the past two years.

Martin Ward, West Midlands Tech Commissioner.

A specialist within the B2B technology sector, Martin boasts a 35-year career spanning both blue chip enterprises and start-ups. Previously educated at Imperial College, MIT, and University of Michigan, he has held executive positions across a variety of digital sectors including in sales, business development and innovation management.

He will make his first official appearance as Tech Commissioner at tomorrow’s Venturefest event which will see entrepreneurs, investors and innovators in the region given the chance to meet, engage and exchange ideas for co-operation and collaboration.

On his appointment, Martin said “I’m honuored to have been chosen to lead the West Midlands’ digital and tech sector going forward and want to do my upmost to support the region in realising its full potential.

“Digital adoption is accelerating and building a digitally connected economy and society has never been more important. I’m keen to get started by speaking with business leaders and entrepreneurs throughout the region to get an understanding of what they think and how we can further compete on the global stage.”

Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands and WMCA Chair, said “The tech sector is a real strength for us here in the West Midlands. We have the fastest growing tech sector outside of London but we’ve been thinking for some time how we can build on these natural strengths and grow the sector even further.

“That’s why we’ve decided to appoint a Tech Commissioner to act as a champion and advocate amongst businesses, investors and wider stakeholders to shout louder about all that we have to offer.

“Congratulations to Martin Ward on landing the role of West Midlands Tech Commissioner. I look forward to seeing his vision for growth and plans to attract more businesses to our region.

“Together we can boost innovation and generate the high-quality, well-paid jobs of the future - improving quality of life for local people in the months and years ahead.”

The two year, part-time and voluntary role was created in partnership with Birmingham Tech, a not-for-profit community initiative (CIC) which aims to raise the profile of the region’s tech scene.

Yiannis Maos, founder and CEO of Birmingham Tech, said: “Last year Birmingham was named the 'fastest growing tech sector in the UK', which is great recognition of the collaborative work from across the region's ecosystem, but we want to continue to evolve and grow.

“Martin’s appointment will give us that chance to continue to stride forward and enable tech businesses to scale up as the region becomes further regarded as a globally recognised tech hub.”

Cllr Ian Brookfield, WMCA portfolio lead for economy and innovation and leader of City of Wolverhampton Council, said; “Technology needs to be the bedrock of our economy and it will be critical for the West Midlands to compete on the global stage.

"The appointment of Martin could prove hugely important for businesses and people across the region as he will aim to bring more exciting and innovative firms the "region and create new jobs for local people.”

Venturefest West Midlands will be held on 1 March 2023 at the Eastside Rooms in Birmingham. To register your interest, please visit: https://www.venturefestwm.co.uk/.