The University of Manchester Innovation Factory (UoMIF) said it has appointed Dr Catherine Headley as its new chief executive officer, effective immediately.
“UoMIF plays a critical role in supporting growth in our region through our spinouts and innovation, and is now perfectly placed to grow and increase the environmental, societal and economic impact that we contribute,” said UoMIF.
“Over the past several years, UoMIF established itself as a vital bridge between academic research and commercial application, supporting the University’s ambition to create impact through translation of world-class research.
“Catherine aims to build on this foundation, driving UoMIF towards ambitious goals while reinforcing Manchester’s historic role as a hub of technological advancement.”
Headley succeeds Andy Wilkinson, who played a pivotal role in transforming UoMIF into a force for commercialising technology and intellectual property (IP) originating from the University’s academics and researchers.
“Catherine steps into the role full-time, having served as Interim CEO over the past year, while also fulfilling her responsibilities as Director of Business Engagement and Knowledge Exchange at The University of Manchester,” said UoMIF.
“With a wealth of experience in working with businesses, technology transfer and innovation, she brings a deep commitment to advancing UoMIF’s mission of identifying and commercialising groundbreaking research to drive social, environmental and economic impact.”
Headley said: “I am thrilled to take on this role at such an exciting time for the Innovation Factory.
“Manchester has a proud and established legacy of pioneering innovation that shapes the world, and I am eager to build on that tradition.
“My goal is to strengthen our partnerships, empower our academics, inventors and researchers, and accelerate the journey from discovery to real-world solutions that benefit society and bolster the UK’s position as a global leader in innovation.”
UoMIF said the appointment comes at a time when technology transfer offices (TTOs) across the UK are increasingly recognised for their economic contributions.
A 2023 report highlighted that university spinouts in the UK employ tens of thousands and generate billions of pounds in revenue annually, underscoring the critical role of organisations like UoMIF in fostering innovation ecosystems.
Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, said: “I’m delighted Catherine is stepping into the role of CEO at the Innovation Factory. Her leadership, creativity, and commitment to bringing our research to life exemplify exactly what we’re about as a University.
“Her appointment will help us accelerate the journey from discovery to real-world impact, ensuring our ideas make a meaningful difference – not just here in Manchester, but nationally and globally. It’s an exciting step forward as we continue to push boundaries in research and innovation, and I’m truly looking forward to seeing what she’ll achieve.”
Luke Hakes, Chairman of The University of Manchester Innovation Factory Board, said: “Catherine’s appointment as CEO marks a significant milestone for the University of Manchester Innovation Factory. Her proven expertise in bridging academia and industry, coupled with a sharp focus on delivering tangible outcomes, positions UoMIF to capitalise on the immense potential of Manchester’s research pipeline.
“The Board sees her leadership as key to scaling our spinout successes and driving high-impact technologies to market—further cementing Manchester’s role as a powerhouse of economic and societal value creation.”