Ian Price, the former Director of CBI Wales, has been awarded an OBE in the King’s Birthday Honours for his services to business and charity.
Born in Swansea and now based in Mumbles, Ian has had a distinguished career championing Welsh businesses and supporting charitable initiatives. A long-serving member of the King’s Trust board in Wales, his contribution to civic life extends well beyond the boardroom.
Ian began his professional journey in the Royal Air Force, serving for nine years, including active duty in the Falklands War in 1982, for which he was awarded the South Atlantic Campaign medal. Following his military service, he moved into recruitment, becoming a Director at Acorn Recruitment—then Wales’ leading recruitment agency.
In 2005, Ian joined the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) as Assistant Director, quickly becoming a key figure in helping Welsh businesses navigate government engagement and national economic policy. Over nearly two decades, he built a reputation as a trusted voice for business and a tireless advocate for economic growth in Wales.
Reflecting on the honour, Ian said:
“I am incredibly humbled by this news. I was brought up in a council house in the Swansea Valley in the 60s. I was an average footballer and an even more average pupil. I found every excuse to avoid studying and left school with pretty average results.
“Nine brilliant years in the RAF gave me grounding, but it was the birth of my daughter that really made me take life seriously. I stumbled into recruitment and enjoyed every moment at JGR and Acorn, working with some fantastic people.
“My move to the CBI in 2005 marked the start of the most fulfilling chapter of my career. The past 20 years have brought me into contact with outstanding colleagues and CBI members who’ve inspired me every step of the way.
“This OBE is not just mine—it’s a team effort. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to work with people who lifted me during the tough times and helped me achieve more than I ever imagined. I can’t name everyone, but you know who you are—thank you.”
Today, Ian remains active in the business and education community, serving in a non-executive role at Thomas Carroll and supporting organisations such as Vibe Youth and Gower College Swansea. A keen runner and lifelong Swansea City fan, he continues to be a proud advocate for his home region and a role model for public service.
