Southampton Science Park CEO Role

The University of Southampton Science Park is pleased to announce that it has partnered with leadership recruitment expert Stanton Chase to assist with the selection of a new Chief Executive Officer. This follows Dr Robin Chave’s recent announcement that he plans to retire in 2026.

Over the past six years, the Science Park has benefited from Dr Chave’s leadership, whose tenure has been marked by stability, commercial progress and thoughtful stewardship. Robin has played a central role in strengthening the Park’s foundations, navigating periods of change, and reinforcing its reputation as a trusted partner to tenants, the University of Southampton and the wider regional ecosystem. The Board is deeply grateful for his contribution and the platform he leaves for the future, which paves the way for the next phase of the Science Park’s development with confidence and ambition.

As the Park looks ahead to the next chapter of leadership, Gavin McCartney, Partner at Stanton Chase, is working with the Science Park Board to identify potential candidates for this highly regarded position, based in the booming Central South innovation economy.

The Science Park exists to support the creation, growth and scaling of high-impact science, technology and knowledge-based businesses. Its community spans early-stage spinouts, fast-growth SMEs and established global organisations, all united by a commitment to innovation, collaboration and real-world impact. As such, it occupies a distinctive and highly respected position within the UK’s innovation landscape.

The environment in which the Park operates is evolving rapidly — shaped by advances in science and technology, changing patterns of work, increased focus on sustainability, and growing expectations around the economic and societal impact of innovation. Against this backdrop, the Board sees a significant opportunity for the Science Park to further enhance its role as a catalyst for growth, collaboration and global relevance.

The Board is seeking a CEO who can build on strong foundations while bringing fresh perspective, energy and strategic leadership. This is a role that combines commercial acumen with an appreciation of academic excellence; one that requires engagement across multiple stakeholders, from entrepreneurs and investors to University leadership, local partners and national bodies.