Introducing Our New Chief Executive

Southampton Science Park is delighted to welcome its new Chief Executive, Michael Aston.

Michael’s appointment underlines the Science Park’s ambition to build on its status as the region’s preeminent hub for science, technology and digital businesses. Recently named South Coast Property Business of the Year, and with a flagship research and development facility set to open soon, he joins at a significant moment for the Park.

Professor Mark Spearing, Chair of the Southampton Science Park Board, said: “Michael’s wide-ranging experience, track record of delivering major capital projects, and deep understanding of the sciences make him an excellent fit with the Park’s ambitions and values. The Board looks forward to working with him on the next stage of its development, and also thanks Robin Chave for his outstanding leadership to date; the Park has thrived under his tenure and he leaves a very strong foundation to build on.”

Michael commented: “It is a privilege to be leading Southampton Science Park as it enters its next phase. The Science Park is a special place – positioned at the intersection of academic research and serial entrepreneurship and with a mix of start-ups and blue-chip companies. It’s an extraordinarily powerful proposition that sparks exciting opportunities.

He continued, “Robin Chave leaves the Park in excellent shape, and my focus now is on building on that strength. I expect to work closely with the University of Southampton and wider innovation networks so that ideas born from world-class research can grow into companies that make both positive global and regional impacts.”