Scarborough appoints director of innovation ecosystems
Deb Hetherington will take on the role, which will be centred on two of the group’s flagship projects: Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park and the Old Medical School in Leeds.
Hetherington is a self-employed innovation consultant with experience in the Norths’ health, tech, and digital sectors.
Previously, she held the position of head of innovation at Bruntwood SciTech, where she developed innovation strategies for developments across the UK.
In her new role at SGI, Hetherington will focus on connecting businesses with opportunities across the Group’s developments while strengthening partnerships with local universities, NHS trusts, and other key stakeholders.
Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park is an 80-acre health and wellbeing site that includes facilities such as the Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre, the National Centre for Child Health Technology, and the English Institute of Sport Sheffield, and provides space for a wide range of health-related businesses.
The Old Medical School, situated on the Leeds General Infirmary site, forms part of Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust’s Innovation Village.
The redevelopment will transform the grade two-listed building into a hub for medical technology, life sciences, and healthcare innovation.
Hetherington currently holds several roles across the public and private sector, such as an associate at Leeds Beckett University, where she supports research in the field of AI adoption, and a forum member at the Productivity Institute.
She is also executive director at Leeds Digital.
Speaking about her appointment, Hetherington said: “Through my experience working on multiple developments and building networks across innovation sites around the world, it’s become increasingly clear that the most important element for success is in the strength of partnerships within those ecosystems.
“Building impactful and strategic relationships across public and private sector, with a shared vision and a strong appetite for collaboration, is key to growth.”
Kevin McCabe, founder and chairman of SGI, added: “Deb’s appointment reflects our commitment to advancing our innovation agenda.
“Her expertise in building ecosystems and her deep understanding of the needs of digital and tech businesses make her an invaluable addition to our team.
“We’re confident her leadership will help us realise the full potential of Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park and the Old Medical School in Leeds, creating thriving hubs for innovation and economic growth.”
