Having served previously as a member of the organisation’s board, he takes over the role of chair from Sir Kenneth Calman.

Sir Kenneth, who has guided Glasgow City of Science in the five years following its inception in 2010, will remain involved as honorary president.

Patrick’s appointment as the organisation’s chair will further enhance links between both the city’s business and science sectors.

A former operations director at Scottish Enterprise and now in his sixth year as chief executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, he brings to the role 25 years experience as a key figure in the city’s business community.

Patrick said: “Glasgow has a diverse economy, but science is behind many of its key sectors. Amongst those identified by the Glasgow Economic Commission, where there is real potential for growth, are low-carbon industries, life sciences and engineering, with others having some kind of science involvement.

“There are 5000 people working in energy with 2100 of these in renewables, and the research presence is especially strong with the International Technology and Renewable Energy Zone next to the University of Strathclyde housing the UK’s Offshore Renewables Catapult and the UK’s Technology Strategy Board Future Cities Demonstrator.

“The fact the All-Energy conference will be based here over the next three years also helps rubberstamp Glasgow as a city of science title and I’m thrilled to take over this post.”

The appointment of Stuart Patrick as chair is aimed at further enhancing the organisation’s engagement with entrepreneurs and innovators, with a focus on Scottish-based SMEs who want to learn how to accelerate business growth through innovation.

Of his time as chair, Sir Kenneth said: “The organisation has a very clear vision statement – to work smarter, in partnership, to raise the profile of Glasgow and the West of Scotland as a world-class science destination and to leverage science and technology to boost substantial economic development and quality of life for our citizens.

“Bolstered by excellent, hard-working staff and a committed and active Board, Glasgow City of Science is ready to move further ahead. Therefore, now is a good time to have someone new at the helm and I’m delighted that Stuart Patrick has agreed to take over the role as chair.

“Stuart brings with him immense knowledge of the issues, challenges and opportunities associated with both the business and science sectors. I wish him every success in the role.”

 

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Glasgow Chamber of Commerce