Oxford University Innovation appoints new CEO

Oxford University Innovation's new chief executive said she wants to "nurture Oxford’s thriving innovation ecosystem" during her time in the role.

Dr Mairi Gibbs has more than 20 years of experience in university technology transfer including multiple roles leading business management and operational areas of Oxford University Innovation.

She said: "I am very proud to be leading Oxford University Innovation in our next phase of development.

"At Oxford University Innovation we create world-class companies and license game-changing technologies which are helping to solve the world’s biggest problems.

"We also offer a bespoke academic consultancy service, providing a gateway to over 6,500 experts from more than 50 departments across the university.

"I want to nurture Oxford’s thriving innovation ecosystem to deliver inclusive economic return and societal benefit for Oxford, the region and the UK."

The University of Oxford recently held on to the title of UK’s number one higher education institution position in the 2024 Beauhurst Spotlight on Spinouts report.

Baroness Nicola Blackwood, chair of Oxford University Innovation and Genomics England, added: "I am delighted to welcome Mairi to the helm of Oxford University Innovation on a permanent basis.

"Since taking on the interim position in March 2024, Mairi has already demonstrated the value of her expertise and vision.

"Under her stewardship, Oxford University Innovation will undoubtedly deliver growth through evolving Oxford University Innovation’s licensing partnerships, accelerating our spinout creation, while nurturing a thriving student entrepreneurship and academic consultancy culture."