At de Novo we place real value on supporting people at all stages of their careers, whether they’re just starting out in the tech industry or bringing years of experience. By focusing on developing talent from within and helping to foster the next generation of sector leaders, we’ve built a strong team – and our growth has been recognised by the Sunday Times, naming us the fastest growing tech business in Wales.
At Friday’s 2025 FinTech Wales Awards, our culture was recognised across several categories. Our Founder and Group CEO, Mark Sweeny, received Leader of the Year award, while Brogan Williams – the first person to join our Graduate and Degree Apprenticeship programme – was named Apprentice of the Year. de Novo itself was received recognition in the Best Growth Story/Scale-Up category.
Reflecting on his win and the three years since he joined de Novo, Brogan – who recently graduated from the University of South Wales with first-class honours – said:
“Professionally and personally, I’ve learned many skills at de Novo, and I feel I’ve really developed as a person. I couldn’t have asked for a better business to do that within. This award represents a step towards my future, and I am eager to keep taking each opportunity as it comes. My support network of family and friends has been a massive help during my apprenticeship, but I also know that I wouldn’t be in this position without my team and all the people in the wider business. Without everyone at the company, de Novo wouldn’t be such a success story, able to continue progressing and undertaking exciting projects, as well as recognised in Wales and beyond for its accomplishments.”
Mark described the awards as a celebration of both individual achievement and the wider team’s success:
“It’s a real privilege and an honour to be recognised by the FinTech Awards Wales. We’ve built something special at de Novo – a place where people grow, support one another, and achieve great things together.
Speaking about his journey as a leader, Mark explained:
“I would describe my leadership style as authentic and hands-on. I lead from the front and wouldn’t ask anyone to do something I wouldn’t do myself. At the same time, I empower people rather than micro-manage—I focus on advising, supporting, and creating the space for others to grow.
My father instilled in me the belief that ‘your word is your bond.’ For me, that means only committing to what I can deliver, and always following through. This principle shapes how I work with employees, suppliers, and customers—driving trust, strong relationships, and ultimately customer advocacy. To me, a leader’s reputation and integrity are everything.
I’ve made plenty of mistakes, but I see them as part of a continuous learning journey. Three lessons stand out. First, always treat people with the same respect you expect yourself—mutual respect is the foundation of any successful relationship. Second, effective communication is a skill that requires constant improvement, and I’ve learned how critical it is for a leader to be clear, consistent, and empathetic in how they communicate. Finally, I believe there are no purely good or bad experiences—only experiences that provide knowledge. The key is having the wisdom to apply that knowledge differently next time. When things don’t go as planned, I’ve learned to reflect on my own role, adapt, and push forward. That willingness to reflect, learn, and act has shaped my leadership style.”
He continued:
“We’re incredibly proud of Brogan – what a night to remember as you’re starting out in your career, collecting an award in front of some of the very best in the brilliant industry we have here in Wales.
If that was not enough, I was honoured to be named Leader of the Year. But without the incredible de Novo team behind me, none of this would be possible. These awards are very much something for all of us to celebrate and a testament to the great Welsh business we continue to build every day.
We set out four years ago to do things differently in the UK tech space, and it’s amazing to see how far we’ve come. Just being in the room with illustrious CEOs like Steve Dukes and the legend that is Henry Engelhardt, who received a lifetime recognition award, was something very special.
But for me, the night belonged to Brogan – a huge well done to him!
Our thanks and appreciation of course goes to the FinTech Awards Wales team, judges and sponsors for such a memorable evening celebrating the best of the sector in Wales.”