Jordan Phillips

From launching his first business at just 23 to helping grow a £1 million street food brand, his journey is a powerful example of creativity, resilience and taking opportunities wherever they arise.

With over a decade of experience across agency, freelance and business environments, his entrepreneurial spark was lit early. After graduating in 2007, he didn’t follow a traditional path - instead, he chose to build something of his own, setting up his first business in 2010. That decision marked the beginning of a lifelong passion for entrepreneurship and brand-building.

But his story doesn’t just unfold in offices and boardrooms. Between 2008 and 2015, he spent several winter and summer seasons working in ski resorts across the world. In fast-paced, customer-focused environments, he developed invaluable skills in communication, adaptability and problem-solving - while embracing new cultures and experiences. It was during this time that he spotted a gap in the market and launched a licensed and bonded tour operator, creating and selling bespoke ski, biking and surf holiday packages.

Driven to deepen his expertise, he went on to complete an MSc in Strategic Digital Marketing, graduating with Distinction in 2015. Armed with both academic knowledge and real-world experience, he launched a marketing agency, working with an impressive portfolio of clients - from multinational organisations like DS Smith, STG Aerospace and Cardiff Airport, to well-loved Welsh businesses including Oldwalls Gower.

His entrepreneurial journey continued to evolve. As co-director of Yard Group Ltd, he played a key role in transforming a street food concept into a thriving multi-site business in South Wales - growing it to over £1 million turnover within just three years. Leading all marketing activity, he helped build a bold, recognisable brand through creative campaigns, social media and compelling content.

Alongside running and scaling businesses, he has remained passionate about supporting others. As a freelance marketing consultant, he works closely with SMEs to develop marketing strategies, strengthen brand identities and improve customer experiences through website design and content.

His commitment to empowering the next generation is equally strong. As an associate lecturer in marketing and communications, he has shared his expertise within higher education, while also working with Big Ideas Wales to deliver workshops and mentoring sessions in schools, colleges and community groups. Through his involvement in the King’s Trust Mosaic mentoring programme, he has supported young people from diverse backgrounds to build confidence, develop leadership skills and explore their future potential.

More recently, he has brought together his love of hospitality and business in a unique and engaging way—delivering interactive cooking demonstrations on behalf of Business Wales. Using food as a creative tool, he inspires young people to think differently about entrepreneurship, branding and business, proving that ideas can start anywhere.

His journey shows that there is no single path to success. By embracing opportunities, taking risks and staying curious, he has built a career that is both diverse and impactful - while helping others believe that they can do the same.