MATRIX panellist and Former Chairman of the Institute of Directors NI, Dr Joanne Stuart OBE, has been appointed Director of Development at NISP CONNECT.

Joanne Stuart, who has over 25 years’ experience working in the IT industry including nine years with the Oracle Corporation, will be responsible for the development of strategic relationships to support the growth of the Knowledge Economy in Northern Ireland.

Joanne has been active in the area of economic development and championing STEM subjects amongst the region’s younger generation. She said:

“The Northern Ireland Science Park has an exciting vision to lead the transformation of Northern Ireland into one of the most entrepreneurial knowledge economies across Europe by 2030 and I am delighted to join the team at NISP working to bring this to reality.

“I have been engaged with NISP since 2010, and have been a tenant for the last two years. This has enabled me to see firsthand the great strides that the Science Park is making, not only with the growth of the physical infrastructure in both Belfast and Derry/Londonderry, but also the development of the innovation ecosystem through NISP CONNECT and the HALO Business Angel Network.

“This role enables me to build on my work in promoting the STEM/STEAM agenda and I relish working alongside the rest of the NISP team in this challenging and exciting role.”