Digital Catapult Appoints Professor Keith Jackson as New Chair
Company - People | Apr 02, 2025 | Business Cloud

Digital Catapult, the DeepTech innovation organization, has announced the appointment of Professor Keith Jackson as its new chair, succeeding Juergen Maier CBE. Bringing a wealth of experience from industry and academia, Jackson previously co-founded the startup Pi Technology and initiated several key projects at Meggitt. His expertise in digital manufacturing, advanced composite manufacturing, and 3D printed technology aligns with Digital Catapult’s mission to drive the practical adoption of deep tech through collaboration with government, industry, and academia. Jackson is also the chairman of Ilika, a solid-state battery development firm, and a guest lecturer. Susan Bowen, CEO of Digital Catapult, expressed enthusiasm about Jackson's appointment, emphasizing his capability to drive growth and innovation within the UK's innovation community.
Sectors
- Technology
- Manufacturing
- Higher Education
Geography
- United Kingdom – Digital Catapult is based in the UK and aims to support the nation's innovation landscape. Professor Jackson's roles also prominently feature UK-based institutions.
Industry
- Technology – Digital Catapult is an organization focusing on the practical adoption of digital and deep technologies.
- Manufacturing – Professor Keith Jackson has extensive experience in digital manufacturing projects, highlighting the industry's focus on innovation and technology integration.
- Higher Education – Jackson's involvement with academia, both as a guest lecturer and a former professor, underscores the interplay between higher education and technological advancement.
Financials
Participants
Name | Role | Type | Description |
---|---|---|---|
Digital Catapult | Target | Company | A UK-based organization facilitating the adoption of DeepTech innovations. |
Professor Keith Jackson | New Chair | Person | Newly appointed chair of Digital Catapult, bringing extensive experience in engineering and entrepreneurship. |
Juergen Maier CBE | Outgoing Chair | Person | Previous chair of Digital Catapult, served for six years. |
Susan Bowen | CEO | Person | CEO of Digital Catapult, expressing enthusiasm for the leadership change. |
Ilika | Chairman's Other Role | Company | AIM-listed solid state battery development and manufacturing company where Jackson serves as chairman. |
Meggitt | Previous Employer | Company | Company where Jackson developed significant digital manufacturing projects. |