de Novo Solutions founder Mark Sweeny on company's rise
Ranked eighth in the Sunday Times 100 Fastest-Growing Companies and crowned Wales's fastest-growing business, de Novo's trajectory is more than just impressive growth. It's a signal that something important is happening in Wales.
'It's a massive achievement,' said Mark. 'Ranking in the top 10 nationally is one thing, but to do so from our base in South Wales shows the strength of the region. There were seven Welsh firms recognised, which proves we're no longer just a footnote in the tech landscape, we're a force with global reach.'
Mark credits de Novo's rise to a blend of experience, bold thinking, and a deliberate Welsh foundation. Having previously built and sold a successful tech firm, he used that knowledge to shape de Novo's culture: results-driven, yes, but also about how the business shows up.
'It's the way you conduct yourself that matters,' he said. 'We aim to be positively disruptive. Success here doesn't just help us, it gives Wales a louder voice in the UK tech market.'
That voice has been backed by major wins. de Novo's public sector work began with the Office for National Statistics and now includes the Cabinet Office, HM Treasury, and the Ministry of Justice. Recent contracts with Kent and Swansea Councils show the breadth and depth of impact. At its heart, de Novo delivers tailored Industry Cloud Solutions using Oracle and ServiceNow, powerful platforms wrapped in a managed services model focused on long-term value, not just reactive support.
Basing the company in Wales was a conscious decision. 'It's in our DNA,' Mark said. 'Being here lets us be a big fish in a small pond, but one with global reach.' Wales also offered access to the Welsh Government's apprenticeship schemes, enabling de Novo to build a sustainable talent pipeline while addressing the UK's wider digital skills crisis.
Mark's vision goes further. 'I want Wales to be recognised globally as a tech leader. We've got valleys, so why not our own Silicon Valley?' He points to the existing strengths: semiconductor hubs, AI-ready data centres, and vibrant Fintech startups. While attracting venture capital remains challenging, consistent success will draw investment. 'Wales punches above its weight,' he said. 'It's got talent, ambition, and a collaborative spirit that other regions envy.'
de Novo's next chapter includes expanding operations in Chennai, India, boosting capacity and agility for global clients. At home, the company is venturing into Business Process Outsourcing services for areas like payroll, leveraging its cloud-based technology developed in Langstone.
Mark sees Welsh tech as more than just infrastructure, it's about people. 'We've got a talent pool that's just waiting for opportunities,' he said. 'But we need to do more to promote those paths. The Welsh Government's apprenticeship schemes are great, but young people often don't even know they exist.'
He's passionate about preparing the next generation with real-world skills. Through de Novo's 'New Gen' programme, apprentices and graduates learn not just tech, but personal finance, presentation skills, and leadership. 'We're shaping rounded professionals, ready to thrive,' he said.
Events like Wales Tech Week help spark interest, but Mark believes systemic change is needed. 'The school curriculum needs a serious overhaul. We have to teach what's useful in today's economy.'
Asked what drives him, Mark didn't hesitate: 'I live by 'go big or go home.' Let the dragon roar.'
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