Technology

Posted on October 10, 2019 by staff

University of Leeds innovation hub make senior appointment

Technology

Nexus, the University of Leeds’ innovation hub, has appointed a new operations director to its senior leadership team.

Bringing 15 years’ experience in the innovation and start-up sectors, Dr Mark Tock joins Nexus from Nottingham University Innovation Park (UNIP) where, as Operations Director, he was responsible for the development and running of the Park.

An Applied Biological Scientist by training, Mark holds a PhD in Biology (Genetics) from the University of Leeds, an MBA specialising in entrepreneurship and innovation management from Edinburgh Management School, and a PG Cert for Business Incubation, Coaching, and Mentoring from the University of Huddersfield.

He has led a number of incubation and science park projects, including the University of Sheffield’s Bio Incubator and Liverpool Innovation Park, and has provided advisory and mentoring support to developing incubators in Malaysia and China. He is also director and company secretary at the UK Science Park Association.

Alongside his team, Tock will now be responsible for managing the Nexus building and ensuring that the community has a supportive, inspiring and productive environment in which to succeed and grow together.

“Nexus and the wider Leeds City Region has developed a justifiable reputation as the place to grow a successful technology business so I’m incredibly excited to be joining such a thriving innovation ecosystem,” he said.

“I have a real passion for helping entrepreneurs translate world-leading research into real world impacts, which aligns perfectly with Nexus’ ambitions. I look forward to getting to know our community and welcoming new members through our doors in the coming months.”

Dr Martin Stow, Nexus Director said Tock has a proven track record of helping start-ups and SMEs grow.

“Having held positions at some of the UK’s leading incubators and science parks, he shares our commitment to connecting businesses with academia to spark innovation,” said Stow.

“His experience will be invaluable, and we are thrilled to welcome him to Nexus.”