The University of Manchester has appointed Professor Lou Cordwell as the inaugural CEO of Unit M, its new initiative to connect the university with, and catalyse, the regional innovation ecosystem to drive inclusive growth.

“Unit M is designed to address all aspects of the innovation challenge – from R&D through to innovation adoption through to talent and skills – by making the university’s world-class research, innovation assets and talent more accessible to all,” said the university.

“It aims to address key regional and national challenges in productivity, innovation adoption, and economic inclusivity.”

Earlier this year, Cordwell was appointed Professor of Innovation at the Manchester Institute of Innovation Research (MIOIR) at Alliance Manchester Business School (AMBS), and Special Advisor to the Office of the President and Vice-Chancellor.

Cordwell began her career working for WPP before founding the Manchester-based digital design studio magneticNorth (mN). In 2021, mN merged with Fluxx, creating the design and innovation consultancy Magnetic.

Cordwell  said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be asked to lead the Unit M team and mission.

“The University is one of the region’s most important innovation assets and the Unit M ambition to help drive innovation-led growth will be a central theme of the University’s future strategy.

“I’m looking forward to working with colleagues across the University as well as local and global partners to deliver exciting new opportunities for our region.”

Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Lou to lead Unit M.

“Her leadership and expertise will be instrumental in ensuring Unit M achieves its ambitious goals of driving inclusive growth and strengthening Manchester’s position on the global innovation stage.”

Unit M is now live and actively engaging with entrepreneurs, investors, and changemakers eager to shape the future of the region.

For more information about Unit M and partnership opportunities, visit https://www.unit-m.co.uk/