The University of Manchester Innovation Factory is pleased to announce that Professor John Holden, recently appointed Vice-President for Civic Engagement and Innovation at The University of Manchester, has joined its Board.
Professor Holden’s new University role follows the retirement of Professor Richard Jones. As Vice-President, he will sit on the University Executive with responsibility for advancing Manchester’s strategic agenda across civic engagement and innovation, working in partnership with local, regional and national stakeholders and across the full breadth of the University community.
With extensive experience spanning higher education, government and industry, Professor Holden has been central to initiatives including the establishment of the UK’s Productivity Institute at Alliance Manchester Business School, the relocation of the UK Biobank to the Oxford Road Corridor and the creation of Unit M.
By joining the Board of the Innovation Factory, Professor Holden will play a key role in guiding its mission to translate the University’s world-class research into real-world impact through spinout companies, licensing and investment.
Professor Holden said: “I am delighted to join the Board of the Innovation Factory at such a pivotal moment. As a core part of the University’s integrated innovation ecosystem, the Innovation Factory plays a crucial role in taking Manchester’s research outputs and turning them into new products and services that make a difference locally, nationally and globally.
“I look forward to working closely with the Innovation Factory team to support academic entrepreneurs, grow our spinout pipeline, and ensure that our research translates into positive societal and economic impact.”
Dr Catherine Headley, Chief Executive Officer of the University of Manchester Innovation Factory, said: “We are thrilled to welcome John to our Board. His leadership in civic engagement and innovation aligns perfectly with our mission, and his vision for strengthening Manchester’s role as a global innovation powerhouse will be invaluable.
“The Innovation Factory is proud to be the University’s technology transfer office, supporting academics across all disciplines to disclose ideas, protect intellectual property, and build sustainable commercial ventures.”
The Innovation Factory is the dedicated technology transfer office (TTO) for The University of Manchester. It supports researchers and academics in identifying and protecting intellectual property, creating spinouts, and securing critical investment that will launch new technologies and companies into the world. This work ensures that Manchester’s groundbreaking discoveries in fields as diverse as health, energy, advanced materials, and the arts deliver economic growth and societal benefit both regionally and globally.
