Lou Cordwell to Lead Unit M as CEO
Portfolio - People | Dec 12, 2024 | Business Cloud
Professor Lou Cordwell OBE has been appointed as the inaugural CEO of Unit M, a new initiative by the University of Manchester aimed at enhancing the region's innovation ecosystem and fostering inclusive growth. Unit M seeks to tackle various dimensions of the innovation challenge, leveraging the university's research, innovation assets, and talent to address regional and national challenges in productivity and economic inclusivity. Cordwell's previous roles include her appointment as Professor of Innovation at the Manchester Institute of Innovation Research and her leadership of the University’s Regional Innovation Review. She has extensive experience in innovation, economic transformation, and cross-sector collaboration. Cordwell is also noted for her role in developing the strategic masterplan for Europe's innovation district project, Sister, and her work as chair of Greater Manchester's Business Board. Her new role will focus on innovation-led growth as part of the University’s future strategy.
Sectors
- Education
- Innovation and Technology
- Economic Development
Geography
- United Kingdom – Unit M is based at the University of Manchester, aiming to impact regional and national innovation.
- Greater Manchester – Lou Cordwell is actively involved in the local business community, including chairing the Business Board.
Industry
- Education – Unit M is a university-based initiative, focusing on connecting and enhancing its innovation assets.
- Innovation and Technology – The initiative aims to strengthen the regional innovation ecosystem and improve productivity.
- Economic Development – The goal of Unit M is to drive inclusive economic growth and address productivity challenges.
Financials
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lou Cordwell OBE | CEO of Unit M | Person | A seasoned expert in innovation and economic transformation with previous experience at WPP and Magnetic. |
| Unit M | University Initiative | Company | A new effort by the University of Manchester to engage with the regional innovation ecosystem. |
| University of Manchester | Parent Institution | Company | Led the creation of Unit M to leverage research and innovation assets for regional growth. |
| Greater Manchester's Business Board | Advisory Body | Company | Lou Cordwell serves as chair, focusing on business strategies within the region. |