HM Treasury boss John Kingman to help create £6bn research and innovation body

John Kingman, second permanent secretary to the HM Treasury, has been announced as the chair of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), a new multi-billion pound government body.

Science Minister Jo Johnson revealed that Mr Kingman has been selected to lead UKRI on an interim basis as it sets up in shadow form.

Once up and running, the new organisation will operate with a budget of over £6bn and bring together the UK’s seven research councils, the innovation agency Innovate UK and research funding from the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE).

Following his appointment, Mr Kingman will advise ministers as they select a leading scientist for the post of UKRI chief executive and work closely alongside the current leaders of Innovate UK, HEFCE and the research councils.

Mr Johnson commented: “I am delighted that John has agreed to take on this role.

“As someone who has overseen five spending reviews which prioritised science, John is uniquely placed to set up this new organisation and understand how best to maximise the value of our investment in research and innovation for the economy and society.”

Mr Johnson continued: “John will now be working closely with the research and innovation communities to shape the new organisation and oversee a competition to recruit a leading scientist as the first chief executive.”

UKRI will be tasked with ensuring the UK maintains its position as a world leader in multi- and inter-disciplinary research, in addition to providing a strategic approach to tackling major worldwide innovation challenges.

UKRI will also be responsible for the Research Excellence Framework (REF) and work with the devolved administrations to asses the research performance of the UK’s universities.

Dame Sally Davies, the Chief Medical Officer, commented: “John Kingman will be an excellent Chair.

“Through his work at the Treasury he has been a powerful advocate for high-quality and well-funded science for over a decade.”

She added: “His appointment will ensure the new body gets the running start it needs, and I have no doubt he will listen to scientists and distil important issues to advance research.”

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