Simon’s role is to develop larger and complex innovation submissions and programmes that build links between academics and industry, to solve challenges through a combination of new technology, business systems and leadership.  Simon joined the academic sector in 2017 after an industry career, working in sectors including automotive, maritime and grocery. In 2012, through post-Olympic funding, he helped establish a partnership between Ford and Loughborough University to create engineering innovation in East London.

His role is often to facilitate collaborations between industry partners, UK catapult organisations and academia to bring innovation and new skills to the UK, adding value to world-class research. Simon has a post-graduate diploma with the University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainable Leadership and is a Business Fellow of the Connected Places Catapult. s.f.barnes@kent.ac.uk.