Dan Ware, founder of The Spark, former £86 million fintech leader and Bournemouth Echo columnist, has joined Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) in the new role to strengthen links between creative education and commercial enterprise.
He will focus on supporting graduate entrepreneurship and talent retention in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) area.
Mr Ware said: “Young creative minds at AUB possess an extraordinary ability and optimism to solve problems in ways traditional business often misses.
Dan Ware (Image: Arts University Bournemouth)
“However, you only know what you know.
“My aim is to provide that experienced commercial lens, ensuring our students can take bold creative risks while protecting themselves, their intellectual property, and their long-term financial viability.”
With more than 20 years of experience in fintech, AI and consumer marketing, Mr Ware will work closely with students, staff and regional business partners to deliver practical enterprise training and open new commercial pathways.
Lisa Mann, vice-chancellor and CEO of AUB, said: “Dan’s remarkable entrepreneurial background brings invaluable real-world dynamic experience to our academic community.
“This initiative aligns directly with the Research and Enterprise pillar of our Strategy 2030+, which focuses on embedding enterprise throughout our ecosystem, advancing practice-based research, and empowering our creative community to lead innovation and drive economic and social impact.”
Mr Ware said: “BCP is an incredible place to live, work, and build a business.
“If we can empower 15 young entrepreneurs, and five of them go on to pay that forward, the positive ripple effect across our local economy is immense.”