Two of Wales’ most respected business leaders have been awarded Fellowship of the Institute of Directors (IoD), one of the organisation’s highest honours recognising outstanding leadership, integrity and service to the business community.
Richard Selby MBE DL, Wales National Chair, and Gareth Jarman, Chair of IoD Mid Wales, have both been recognised for their exceptional contribution to the Institute, its members and the wider business community in Wales.
Awarded by invitation only, Fellowship is reserved for senior directors who have demonstrated sustained leadership, championed good governance and made a significant contribution to business and society. Fellows are recognised as ambassadors for the values of the Institute of Directors and are entitled to use the professional designation FIoD.
Richard Selby has led IoD Wales as National Chair since 2020 and will step down from the role in November after six years of service. Taking on the position during a period of significant change for the organisation, Richard helped guide members through the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic while supporting membership retention and organisational stability.
Throughout his tenure, he has played a leading role in strengthening relationships with both the Welsh Government and UK Government, helping to ensure the voice of Welsh business is represented at the highest levels. He has also been instrumental in supporting membership growth and providing strong leadership as a new Wales team was established.
Alongside his work with the IoD, Richard was appointed Deputy Lieutenant for Gwent and was awarded an MBE in recognition of his services to the economy and charity in Wales.
Gareth Jarman has been an IoD member for eight years and has served as Chair of IoD Mid Wales for the past five years. During that time, he has built a strong reputation for bringing together business leaders across the region while encouraging greater collaboration between all four Welsh regions.
His commitment to the Institute extends far beyond mid Wales. Gareth has represented the IoD at international events alongside ministers, ambassadors and visiting trade delegations, recently represented the organisation at an All-Party Parliamentary Group meeting in Westminster to discuss the Western Gateway, and has supported the Institute as Head Judge for the Wales Director of the Year Awards. A military veteran, he is also a passionate advocate for the Armed Forces Covenant and Reserve Service across Wales.
Richard Selby MBE DL FIoD said:
“It is a tremendous honour to be awarded Fellowship of the Institute of Directors. The IoD has played an important role throughout my career and it has been a privilege to serve our members in Wales over the past six years.
“The strength of the Institute has always been its members and volunteers, who freely give their time and expertise to support one another and strengthen the wider business community. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and look forward to continuing to support the Institute in the years ahead.”
Gareth Jarman FIoD said:
“Receiving Fellowship is both a privilege and a humbling recognition. Throughout my time with the IoD I have been passionate about creating meaningful connections between business leaders, encouraging collaboration and ensuring directors across Wales have opportunities to learn from one another.
“It has been an honour to represent the Institute both in Wales and internationally, and I hope to continue supporting the next generation of business leaders while championing the values of good governance, integrity and responsible leadership.”
Jo Price, Nations Manager, IoD Wales, said:
“Richard and Gareth have each made an outstanding contribution to the Institute of Directors in Wales and this recognition is thoroughly deserved.
“Both have given countless hours to supporting our members, strengthening the organisation and championing Welsh business. Their leadership, commitment and willingness to go above and beyond have helped shape the Institute in Wales and inspired many directors along the way. On behalf of everyone at IoD Wales, I would like to congratulate them both on this well-deserved honour.”
