ITWales welcomes Sir Terry Matthews to Swansea

Sir Terry Matthews, Wales’ first self-made billionaire and most famous entrepreneur, will be giving a rare insight into his career when he is set to guest-speak at Swansea’s Taliesin Theatre in Swansea University, next Tuesday 27th January.

The event is organised by ITWales as part of its "Celebrating 15 years of advancing technology in Wales" programme and is held in partnership with the School of Physical Sciences at Swansea University.

Chris Williams, Operations Manager of ITWales, said, "We are absolutely delighted to be welcoming Sir Terry Matthews to Swansea. He is a fine example of what sheer hard work and determination can achieve in this world. This lecture is a unique opportunity for those attending to find out how Sir Terry became Wales’ first self-made billionaire from the telecoms industry and to hear first hand what it takes to launch and develop a ’successful start-up.’ The event will be of particular value to students and young entrepreneurs as Sir Terry will be speaking about his many start-up companies with young graduates from around the world, outlining how to go forward in today’s economic climate. I know Sir Terry still takes a considerable interest in his home country and continues to play a valuable role in inspiring Wales’ future entrepreneurs. This lecture is a great start to our 2009 events schedule and a fitting addition to our programme as we celebrate 15 years of advancing technology in Wales."

Sir Terry Matthews was born in Newport in 1943, starting as an apprentice with the old GPO, now British Telecom, before reading engineering at Swansea University. He has since founded over 60 companies in the United Kingdom and Canada in the high tech communications field. His most notable successes so far have been with Mitel, which he sold to British Telecom, and Newbridge Networks, which was acquired for seven billion dollars by Alcatel. His fame spread beyond the financial pages when he won the biggest show in golf for Wales - the 2010 Ryder Cup at the Celtic Manor Hotel in Newport.

Sir Terry Matthew’s lecture begins at 5.30pm doors open at 4.45pm at the Taliesin Theatre and is FREE to attend and open to all. However, advance booking is essential as places are limited. To book your place please visit www.itwales.com/events or phone 01792 602702.

Sir Terry Matthews will be available for media interviews after the lecture and these are available upon request. For any media enquiries, please contact Michael Erskine at MGB PR on 01792 460200 or email Michael@mgbpr.com.