Multi-million pound Sensor City project takes on former BT Business CIO

Liverpool’s collaborative Sensor City project has taken a step forward with the appointment of a new executive director.

Alison Mitchell, former chief information officer of BT Business, has been hired to drive forward the University of Liverpool and Liverpool John Moores’ £15m joint venture as it aims to create 300 startups and 1,000 jobs over the next decade.

Bringing together knowledge and experience in sensor technology and supporting high-tech businesses as they work on sensor systems and applications, Sensor City will include a Technology Development Zone, an Open Innovation Lab, and offer coaching, mentoring and access to funding for new businesses in the sector.

Alison’s remit will include helping to establish Sensor City as a national asset for emerging tech, propelling Liverpool and the UK to the forefront of sensor-related innovation.

Discussing her vision for the scheme, Alison said: “I am truly excited to be leading Sensor City.

“Sensor technology is driving the next generation of products and innovations that can transform lives and the economy. The technology that will be developed at Sensor City will support a modern industrial strategy and boost productivity across a range of sectors from health to transport.”

She continued: “With the global sensor market currently worth $490bn and growing at over 10% each year, Sensor City presents an incredible opportunity for the UK and for Liverpool.

“I am looking forward to unlocking the wealth of expertise that exists between Liverpool’s two leading universities in collaborating with the region’s highly capable SME community to put Liverpool at the forefront of sensor technology development and innovation.”

In the role of executive director, Alison will support hi-tech sensor businesses and startups as they get off the ground, giving the region’s graduate entrepreneurs access to experts and world-leading research from the field of sensor technology.

Prof. Nigel Weatherill, John Moores’ vice chancellor and chair of the Sensor City board, commented: “I am delighted Alison is leading Sensor City. Alison brings the ideal industry and technological acumen to the initiative which can leverage the academic expertise that exists between Liverpool John Moores University and the University Of Liverpool, for the benefit of our graduate and business community.

“It is this kind of pioneering partnership that will enhance Liverpool’s collective competitiveness as the leading British city that can address modern industrial challenges through sensor technology.”

University of Liverpool vice chancellor Prof. Janet Beer said: “Alison brings with her considerable industry knowledge, experience and insight which will ensure that Sensor City achieves its vision to put Liverpool at the forefront of sensor technology development and drive forward innovation, create jobs and boost growth for the City Region.”

Sensor City is one of the country’s four flagship University Enterprise Zones.

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →