Jane Davies, Chief Executive of Manchester Science Parks (msp), has been appointed first President of the International Association of Science Parks (IASP) Advisory Council. 

The largest network of science and technology parks in the world, IASP is a global organisation, actively working to connect industry professionals and provide services that drive the development of its member parks.

The IASP Advisory Council acts as a consultative body to the IASP Board of Directors, offering information and advice as well as developing IASP’s wealth of knowledge on how to design, create, launch, promote and manage science and technology parks. The Presidency of the Council is a newly created position, aimed at strengthening the organisation’s work.

Commenting on her appointment, Ms Davies (pictured) said it was an honour to have been selected for the post as well as a recognition of msp and Manchester’s renown within the international innovation community.

“I look forward to working with IASP to strengthen the Association’s knowledge leadership role, and to encourage the development of successful science and technology parks across the world,” she stated.

President of IASP, Joan Bellavista, said the Association was delighted Ms Davies had accepted the key role of first President of the Advisory Council, which he described as a “think-tank devoted to the IASP knowledge leadership strategy.”

He stated: “Jane Davis has played a very significant role within IASP in different periods, as a member of the International Board and as European Division President.

“With her skills and experience I am sure she will do an excellent job as the first Advisory Council President and we look forward to working with her.”

Ms Davies will continue her role as CEO of Manchester Science Parks (msp) and, as President of the Advisory Council, will also have a seat on the IASP International Board as a Consulting Director.

The appointment was announced on Monday afternoon, November 9th, during a tree planting ceremony at Manchester Science Park to mark msp’s 25th Anniversary. The ceremony saw five silver maple trees planted on the science park along Lloyd Street North, at the side of msp’s Skelton House.

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