University appoints Sir Peter Rigby as Honorary President, Enterprise

Vice-Chancellor Professor Tim Jones and Sir Peter Rigby at the University of Liverpool's Materials Innovation Factory

The University of Liverpool is pleased to announce the appointment of Sir Peter Rigby to the new role of Honorary President, Enterprise.

A serial entrepreneur, Sir Peter is recognised as one of the UK’s most respected and successful business leaders for his contribution to technology and business nationally and internationally.

Sir Peter will work closely with the Vice Chancellor Professor Tim Jones and the University’s senior leadership team to maximise the commercial opportunities arising from the University’s research.

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tim Jones, said: “I am delighted Sir Peter is joining us in this new role. He brings a wealth of experience from the business and technology sector and will play a key role in further strengthening the commercialisation of our research and innovation and guiding us to even greater success.

“Sir Peter’s appointment comes at an important time for the University as we prepare to launch our new strategy taking us through to our 150th anniversary in 2031.”

Sir Peter Rigby, said: “I am honoured to join the University of Liverpool as Honorary President for Enterprise. This esteemed institution has a rich history of innovation and academic excellence, and I am excited to collaborate with the Vice Chancellor and the University’s senior leadership team to unleash the vast commercial potential within the University’s research.

“Together, we will endeavour to identify opportunities for commercialisation, innovation, and entrepreneurship, harnessing the transformative power of technology to have a positive impact for the university and its community.”

Over the past four years the University has successfully spun out 14 companies and over the next five years aims to generate a portfolio of 30 new companies, covering specialisms including Advanced Materials and Manufacturing, Robotics, AI, Infectious Diseases and Diagnostics.