New chief executive for Science City York
Posted on 14 September 2009
Selected from more than 70 applicants, including from overseas, Nicola brings a wealth of experience to her new role.
Her career to date centres on strategic and applied research in the biological sciences, complemented by a strong commercial perspective.
Her abilities and experience as an outstanding scientist, manager and communicator make her an ideal leader and a persuasive advocate for York
Professor Brian Cantor, Vice Chancellor
Currently Chief Scientist at the Food and Environment Research Agency (Fera), Nicola was previously Acting Commercial Director for the Central Science Laboratory (CSL), and played a leading role in the merger and transformation of CSL as an integral part of Fera, launched in April this year.
Professor Spence has also been actively involved in science communication and education throughout her career, most recently as an ambassador for promoting and encouraging women to pursue a career in science.
She said: “I am passionate about developing and promoting the knowledge economy of our region. This is a tremendously important time for Science City York and I am delighted that I will be leading the company. I very much look forward to working with the team and SCY Board and all our partners.”
Richard Gregory OBE, Executive Chair of Science City York, said: "Nicola was an exceptional candidate from a very strong field of applicants.
“It’s a win-win situation for Science City York and Fera. Over the past 18 months our organisations have increasingly worked ever more closely, centred on the development of a major bid for regional investment. I have no doubt that this appointment will see the relationship between Science City York and Fera go from strength to strength.
“Science City York will also be working with both Fera and the University to help them realise their tremendous commercial potential, including in the region’s emerging low carbon futures agenda. I am confident this represents one of York’s best opportunities for business growth and inward investment.”
Science City York’s major stakeholders are the University of York and City of York Council.
Professor Brian Cantor, Vice Chancellor of the University of York said: “The breadth of experience which Nicola brings will be an invaluable asset to Science City York as it enters an exciting new phase in its development. Her abilities and experience as an outstanding scientist, manager and communicator make her an ideal leader and a persuasive advocate for York as one of the UK's principal locations for translating scientific innovation and endeavour into real benefit for the economy."
Bill Woolley, director of City Strategy at City of York Council, said: "The appointment of Nicola is a major milestone and will help to further grow our economy and create long term, sustainable job opportunities for the city."
Adrian Belton, Chief Executive of Fera commented: “Nicola’s appointment is entirely in keeping with the positive way in which the relationship between Fera and SCY has been developing, due in no small part to her leadership. We look forward to working with Nicola in her new role.”
Professor Spence is expected to take up her new role with Science City York before the end of the year.
Media information
Imogen Foster
Tel 01904 870044
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