The Sheffield Innovation Spine has announced Charlotte Thompson as the new Project Director, a move set to fortify Sheffield’s economic future.
- Thompson’s appointment is crucial for developing strategies that will link and enhance innovation infrastructure in the city.
- Her extensive experience with innovation clusters positions her as a vital asset to the project’s success.
- Thompson aims to strengthen Sheffield’s connections with the Northern Triangle, boosting regional economic growth.
- The initiative is backed by major local institutions including Sheffield City Council and the University of Sheffield.
The appointment of Charlotte Thompson as the new Project Director for the Sheffield Innovation Spine marks a significant development in the city’s strategy to bolster its economic framework through enhanced innovation structures. Thompson is expected to lead the initiative effectively, leveraging her vast experience to build strategies that connect and enrich Sheffield’s innovation infrastructure, noticeably impacting the city’s economic landscape.
Thompson brings a wealth of expertise from her previous roles, including her tenure as Product Innovation Co-Lead at Arup, and as Knowledge Transfer Manager for the Digital Economy at Innovate UK KTN. Her understanding of innovation clusters equips her with the capability to nurture healthy innovation ecosystems, a vital component for the project’s success. ‘I am thrilled to join the Sheffield Innovation Spine and contribute to such a pivotal project,’ Thompson remarked.
Tom Wolfenden, CEO at Sheffield Technology Parks, highlighted Thompson’s profound understanding and passion for Sheffield and the North of England. He stated, ‘Her experience, focus, and creativity, combined with a genuine passion for Sheffield and the North of England, makes her the ideal leader for this transformative initiative.’ This endorsement underscores Thompson’s ability to drive this forward-thinking project.
The Innovation Spine initiative is supported by key partners, including Sheffield Technology Parks, Sheffield City Council, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield Hallam University, and the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority. Their collaboration aims to integrate Sheffield more deeply into the Northern Triangle of Manchester, Leeds, and Sheffield, thereby strengthening the regional innovation ecosystem.
Thompson is optimistic about the potential for the Innovation Spine to enhance collaboration within the Northern Triangle. She believes that a robust Innovation Spine will not only deepen the innovation ecosystem with Leeds and Manchester but also make a compelling case for investment and talent retention in the North, collectively fostering economic growth and innovation.
Charlotte Thompson’s leadership is poised to significantly enhance Sheffield’s innovation environment, supporting regional growth and collaboration.
