In his current role, Phil is dedicated to helping high-potential science and tech-based early-stage businesses reach their potential through the Catalyst programme. By employing contemporary business development tools backed up by a wealth of technology and business development experience, Phil delivers constructive challenge and encouragement to adopt a disciplined and holistic approach to creating businesses that are more likely to succeed in the fast-moving, highly competitive 21st century.

Phil began his career as an applied physicist working on a rich variety of aerospace and defence projects, followed by research management at Ministry of Defence research establishments, QinetiQ and associated defence industry contractors. Phil went on to work in personnel management, with specific responsibility for all of MoD’s scientific grades and the transition of QinetiQ into the private sector. This was followed by more than fifteen years' corporate development including technology venturing , M&A and strategy.

For Catalyst, Phil mentors all tenant companies and attends the workshops. He says: “The first four years in the Catalyst Centre have been fun; it is immensely stimulating being associated with such creative and courageous entrepreneurs. I remain fascinated by technological and scientific developments and passionate about helping people realise their business and lifetime potential.”