Crockett Appointed as Catalyst's New Chairman
Portfolio - People | Jan 14, 2025 | Business Cloud

Science and technology hub Catalyst has appointed Neil Crockett as its new chairman, replacing Ellvena Graham who served for four years. Crockett, originally from Co Tyrone and educated in Belfast, has a rich background in senior UK and international positions, most notably as the founding CEO of Digital Catapult innovation centres and as chief digital officer at Rolls-Royce PLC. He has been active in the innovation ecosystem for over a decade and looks forward to driving Catalyst’s ambitious goals outlined in their new strategy, which aims to transform Northern Ireland into one of the top areas for innovation-driven enterprises by 2035. Graham expressed pride and fulfillment in her tenure, citing the strides Catalyst has made, including the launch of new programs and initiatives aimed at inclusive innovation. Steve Orr, CEO of Catalyst, welcomed Crockett and praised both him and Graham for their contributions towards Northern Ireland’s entrepreneurship and innovation landscape.
Sectors
- Technology and Innovation
- Entrepreneurship and Business Development
Geography
- United Kingdom – Catalyst operates in Northern Ireland, part of the UK, focusing on regional innovation and entrepreneurship.
- Northern Ireland – The focus is on Catalyst's impact on Northern Ireland's innovation landscape and its ambitions to enhance entrepreneurship in the region.
Industry
- Technology and Innovation – Catalyst is a science and technology hub focusing on innovation-driven enterprises and supporting the entrepreneurial landscape.
- Entrepreneurship and Business Development – The article discusses Catalyst's role in fostering entrepreneurship in Northern Ireland, aiming to make entrepreneurship accessible by partnering with various stakeholders.
Financials
Participants
Name | Role | Type | Description |
---|---|---|---|
Neil Crockett | New Chairman | Person | Incoming chairman of Catalyst, with extensive experience in technology and innovation sectors. |
Ellvena Graham | Outgoing Chairman | Person | Former chairman of Catalyst, credited with guiding the organization through significant strategic initiatives. |
Catalyst | Organization | Company | A science and technology hub supporting entrepreneurship and innovation in Northern Ireland. |
Steve Orr | CEO | Person | CEO of Catalyst, overseeing the organization's strategic direction and operations. |