Ben
Director
Ben is the founder and Director of Urban Foundry, with over 25 years’ experience in urban regeneration, placemaking and social enterprise. He holds a Doctorate in creative urban regeneration and is an Entrepreneur and Expert in Residence at Swansea University, where he shares his expertise in purpose-driven business and regeneration. He is also a Big Ideas Wales Role Model for Welsh Government, a Certified Member of the Market Research Society, and a Fellow of the Royal Society of the Arts.
A recognised specialist in his field, Ben has developed placemaking strategies, advised Welsh Government on meanwhile spaces and street markets, and delivered consultancy projects across the UK. His expertise spans community engagement, business support, feasibility studies, impact evaluation and Theory of Change, working with local authorities, government bodies, charities and social enterprises.
Alongside his consultancy work, Ben is a hands-on social entrepreneur who has pioneered pop-up urbanism and meanwhile-use initiatives in Wales. His approach combines creative thinking, practical experience and entrepreneurial ambition to turn ideas into sustainable projects that make a lasting difference.