Pictured: Janet Jay (left) with the CEO of York Science Park, Tracey Smith
Janet Jay has been appointed as the new business development manager at York Science Park Limited, responsible for supporting existing residents and attracting new businesses to the 21-acre science and technology park facilities in York.
In her new role, Janet will also be responsible for identifying, developing and implementing new business opportunities and bringing together companies, innovators, funders, student entrepreneurs and the University of York knowledge-base, to create prosperity within the stimulating York Science Park environment. Janet will also be involved in implementing the Science Park’s new strategy with a focus on helping residents make innovative ideas a commercial reality.
Prior to joining York Science Park Limited, Janet was a commercial manager at Autism Plus. There she was responsible for the development, implementation and commercial success of one of the charity’s flagship social enterprises which offers training, work experience and employment progression to adults with autism and associated learning difficulties. Janet has also gained valuable business and operational management skills and experience as managing director of two customer-focussed businesses, in service and manufacturing, as well as running her own successful management consultancy business for several years.
Janet says, “I am looking forward to the challenges ahead, particularly to my involvement in the new strategy implementation. Also, due to a recent large resident move, we currently have over 3,500 sq ft of premium flexible laboratory space available and I will be dedicating time to find suitable residents to secure spaces.
“I aim to maintain and build upon the previous high levels of achievement whilst keeping abreast of fast-moving developments in the industry and ensuring York Science Park is firmly at the forefront of those developments. York has such a thriving science, technology and digital innovation community, it’s an exciting time for me to be joining the sector.”
Says Tracey Smith, York Science Park Limited’s CEO, “Janet has already had considerable success establishing and maintaining credibility in the local business community and we look forward to seeing that further develop through her role here. It’s great to have her on board and I believe her strategic business development, problem-solving and communication skills will complement our existing team strengths.”
Janet also has experience working as a volunteer mentor with the Prince’s Youth Business Trust and outside of work volunteers at a local homeless charity, is a part time foster carer and recently took part in a charity trek across the Inca Trail in Peru. Her passion for music led her to become a volunteer steward with the Oxfam festivals team where she can be found glamping in a field with ‘Joyce’, her beloved 1968 VW camper van.
For further information about York Science Park Limited, please visit www.yorksciencepark.co.uk
Submitted on 12/03/2018
