A champion of enterprise from the West Midlands has retired from his post at the University of Warwick Science Park.
David Rowe was the director at the science park since its inception in 1982 and has played a key role in getting hundreds of new businesses off the ground – particularly those utilising science or new technology.
His work was recognised in 2006 when he was awarded the Queens Award for Enterprise Promotion – Lifetime Achievement. Added to that, he has helped attract new businesses into the region from within the UK and from overseas.
Mr Rowe said: “It’s been wonderful. I’ve worked with and met some fantastic people over the years.
“It has been great to have the freedom to help people with an early idea and to take that, develop it and turn into a successful business.”
Mr Rowe has taken on the role of chair of UK Business Incubation (UKBI) but has laid the groundwork for the Science Park’s future success over the last 29 years.
As well as the Venture Centre for small and start-up companies on the main University campus, a range of buildings have been developed in that area and now house a range of businesses.
And, across the region, three University of Warwick Science Park innovation centres have been created in Binley (Coventry), Warwick and at Blythe Valley Park.
David Grindrod, deputy director of the University of Warwick Science Park, said: “We wish David all the very best. His work has been nothing short of phenomenal and his time here has been full of achievement.
“We must take that work and continue to grow the Science Park and continue to do what we do best to provide space and support for companies with the potential to grow.”
