Zimmerman: New COO at STFC
Company - People | Apr 01, 2025 | Business Cloud

Keith Zimmerman has been appointed Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC). Zimmerman brings extensive experience in senior roles across UK universities, specializing in stakeholder management and organizational change. His previous roles include significant projects at the University of Bath, such as the completion of prominent building facilities. His responsibilities at STFC will encompass governance, estates management, and support services, along with health, safety, environmental sustainability, security, risk management, and continuous improvement. The role also involves leadership in financial, legal, commercial, and human resource activities within STFC. Professor Michele Dougherty, executive chair of STFC, expressed confidence in Zimmerman's capabilities following a competitive recruitment process. Zimmerman looks forward to supporting and enhancing STFC's ongoing projects and collaborations.
Sectors
- Academia
- Science and Technology
Geography
- United Kingdom – Both STFC and Zimmerman's previous roles are located in the UK, making it a central geography for this article.
Industry
- Academia – The article highlights Keith Zimmerman's experience in senior roles within UK universities, emphasizing his background in academia.
- Science and Technology – STFC operates in research areas like astronomy, physics, and space science, making the science and technology sector relevant.
Financials
Participants
Name | Role | Type | Description |
---|---|---|---|
Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) | Employer | Government | A council that supports research in astronomy, physics, and space science in the UK. |
Keith Zimmerman | New COO | People | Appointed as the new Chief Operating Officer of STFC with a background in academia. |
Professor Michele Dougherty | Executive Chair of STFC | People | Executive Chair expressing confidence in Zimmerman's appointment. |
John Ginever | Interim COO | People | Served as interim COO before Zimmerman's appointment. |