A significant appointment has been made in Sheffield’s innovation sector, marking a new chapter for the city’s economic development.
- Charlotte Thompson has been appointed as the Project Director for the Sheffield Innovation Spine.
- Her role is pivotal for linking the city’s innovation infrastructure to promote growth in knowledge-led businesses.
- Thompson brings extensive experience from her previous roles at Arup and Innovate UK KTN to this project.
- The initiative aims to strengthen ties within the Northern Triangle, enhancing the region’s economic growth and innovation.
Charlotte Thompson has taken on the role of Project Director for the Sheffield Innovation Spine. Her appointment is seen as a crucial move for the future of Sheffield’s economy, with a focus on fostering an innovation-driven ecosystem within the city centre. Thompson’s expertise in building strategies for knowledge-led businesses is expected to enhance the region’s economic landscape.
In her new role, Thompson will be responsible for creating a strategy that connects and strengthens the city’s innovation infrastructure. This initiative is designed to attract businesses focused on knowledge and innovation, thereby nurturing an inventive atmosphere in Sheffield. Her work is anticipated to not only impact Sheffield but also complement existing innovation centres across the North of England.
Thompson holds significant experience from her previous positions, including as Product Innovation Co-Lead at Arup and Knowledge Transfer Manager for the Digital Economy at Innovate UK KTN. Her background equips her with a deep understanding of innovation ecosystems, which is crucial for her leadership of the Sheffield Innovation Spine. CEO of Sheffield Technology Parks, Tom Wolfenden, highlights her focus, creativity, and dedication to the region as key attributes that make her an ideal leader for this transformative project.
The Sheffield Innovation Spine is supported by notable partners, including Sheffield Technology Parks, Sheffield City Council, the University of Sheffield, Sheffield Hallam University, and the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority. This broad backing underscores the project’s importance and potential impact on the region’s innovation landscape.
Thompson has expressed her belief that the Innovation Spine will strengthen relationships between the Northern Triangle cities of Manchester, Leeds, and Sheffield. By enhancing connectivity and collaboration, the project aims to build a stronger innovation ecosystem across these cities, making a compelling case for investment and talent retention in the North.
Charlotte Thompson’s leadership in the Sheffield Innovation Spine is set to drive significant economic and innovative progress in the region.
