Aspire 2Be, part of Educ8 Training Group, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Matt Smith as its new Managing Director, effective October 1st, 2023. Currently serving as the Digital Transformation Director at Aspire 2Be, Matt Smith will succeed Simon Pridham, who founded the organisation, along with Jeremy Stephens a decade ago.
Aspire 2Be is a multi-award-winning Learning Technology Specialist in education and business. The company is based on the SA1 waterfront development in Swansea and is the only UK Professional Development Partner for Apple, Google, and Microsoft.
With a strong background in education, Matt Smith joined Aspire 2Be almost eight years ago as a Programme Manager. Matt has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, a deep commitment to education and digital innovation, and an unwavering passion for empowering the next generation of digital talent in the workplace. Matt’s time at the company has seen the team grow to double the headcount and the development of six new learning pathways. His extensive experience and strategic vision will lead Aspire 2Be into its next phase of growth.
Commenting on this significant transition, Grant Santos, CEO of Educ8 Training Group, remarked, “We are immensely proud of Matt’s journey within Aspire 2Be. His appointment as Managing Director is a testament to his outstanding contribution and dedication to our mission. I have no doubt that Matt will continue to drive our commitment to excellence in digital apprenticeships and I look forward to working with him more closely as part of the wider Educ8 Group.”
In response to his appointment, Matt Smith shared his enthusiasm and ambitions for Aspire 2Be, stating, “I am honoured to step into the role of Managing Director at Aspire 2Be. Having worked with both commercial partners and learners over the past seven years, I have witnessed the transformative impact of apprenticeships in the digital landscape. My vision for Aspire 2Be is to further strengthen our position as a leading provider of digital apprenticeships; expanding our reach, enhancing our offerings, and continuing to empower individuals and organisations alike. Together, with our dedicated team, we will shape the digital workforce of tomorrow.”
Simon Pridham, who has played a pivotal role in the growth and success of Aspire 2Be, expressed his support for Matt’s appointment, saying, “I have had the privilege of working alongside Matt for many years, and I have seen his passion for education and digital innovation firsthand. I am confident that under his leadership, Aspire 2Be will continue to thrive and make a lasting impact on the apprenticeship landscape.”
