Business Secretary Vince Cable has announced that Ruth McKernan is to become the new chief executive of Innovate UK, the body set up to help boost business innovation.
McKernan has worked extensively with Innovate UK as interim co-chair of the Cell Therapy Catapult. In 2013 she was awarded a CBE for services to business, innovation and skills.
She replaces Iain Gray, who stepped down from the role in December. McKernan will start her five year term on 1 May 2015. Interim chief executive David Grant will remain in post until then.
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Announcing McKernan’s appointment today, Cable said: “Innovate UK have gained a talented woman in a key leadership position. She brings with her the knowledge and expertise needed to steer this expanding organisation as it provides the financial support and connections to expert business advice that increasing numbers of businesses need to drive economic growth.”
Cable also announced the appointment of Harry Swan and Tera Allas as members of Innovate UK’s governing board.