Issue link: https://htpgraphics.uberflip.com/i/1055210
Tell us about UCC and why you believe this is the right move for you? "UCC is a great university and has many of the things we have here at The University of Manchester. UCC is a little smaller but my responsibilities are broader which compensates for that. "I really believe it's important to embrace a good opportunity when it comes along and this is a great opportunity for me." Are there any highlights or moments that you already look back on with a sense of fondness? "First and foremost, I know I'm leaving behind a very positive and engaged team. "In 2008 though, we announced the UMIP Premier Fund, which was really important for the whole organisation. "My role in that was to drive deal flow to that fund for the ensuing five years. "I remember that as such a positive time, from 2008 to 2013. We had a great relationship with the fund managers and deals happened quickly and effectively." Is there anything else, maybe one particularly company that you've been associated with? "Conformetrix, which is now listed on AIM as C4X Discovery was one of the companies I was particularly pleased to be associated with. "Saying that, projects which go on to make positive PR and impact is what has been most pleasing over the years and I'm pleased there has been a lot of that." How do you see where the company is now and the wider technology transfer sector? Had I not had such a positive experience I certainly wouldn't be going to UCC. Manchester is rightly positioned amongst the top tech transfer offices in the UK. There's always going to be that sense of pressure to improve and be more effective but, like I say, I leave with things in a strong position. "I'd also say that it's good that the organisation - given Clive's retirement and my decision to leave – does indeed take the opportunity to refresh itself. "The University of Manchester is a great university. It has scale behind it, quality and also has the graphene aspect which brings profile and expectation. "I've absolutely no doubt that what we've achieved so far will be built upon." Do tell us a little more about Cork "Well, UCC is a very good place to practise tech transfer, both to serve the local community and the university itself. The senior team at the UCC is incredibly bought-in and supportive, and the mission of creating great companies, high quality jobs and anchoring local economic benefit to the city region really motivates me. "I'm arranging to buy a house at the moment and my wife will join me next summer in Ireland. "I would never have thought about leaving had it not been for my family life being at the stage it is now. Both my children have left the nest so to speak and are studying at Leeds and Liverpool universities, so my only real tie is my season ticket at Everton – and I will make sure I'm back for the big games! "It's very exciting to be taking on this new challenge in Ireland and I wish everyone here and the wider University of Manchester all the very best."