Staff Profile

As part of the Research and Innovation Directorate, I lead the Business Development and Enterprise Unit in charge of delivery the Business and Innovation Strategic Plan.

We see to work collaboratively with internal colleagues and external organisations to maximise our research and education impact, locally, nationally and globally.

Currently the team supports:

• All aspects of Knowledge Exchange and Innovation
• Engagement and partnership with a wide range of organisations external to the University
• Protection and exploitation of the University's IP
• Consultancy services
• CPD
• Contract and collaborative research
• University Spinouts
• University innovation services viat Knowledge Transfer Partnerships and Arrow

I have 25 years’ experience in economic development through regeneration and innovation in the North East of England, and working across the UK and Europe with a thorough understanding of the national and local innovation ecosystem. Passionate about sustainable and inclusive innovation. Champion of partnership and collaboration to unlock opportunities. Advocate for equality, diversity and inclusion. Northern Power Women list and hailed as one of the most influential women in the region. Attracted and led multi-million pound high-profile programmes in the North East aimed at supporting new and growing innovative companies and achieving positive economic and social impact. In-depth practical knowledge of open innovation to help address organisational and societal challenges. Expert in access to innovation finance. Member of the CBI Innovation and Technology board, Non-Executive Director at Nexus, Board member of Lifted Ventures and Women North East Connected.