David joined the board at its inception in 2012 is taking over the role from Anthony Habgood, who recently concluded his three-year tenure as chair of the Park.
Appointed vice-chancellor of the University of East Anglia (UEA) in January 2014, Professor Richardson joined the university in 1991 and has held a series of leadership positions including dean of the faculty of science, pro-vice-chancellor for research, enterprise and engagement, and deputy vice-chancellor. He is also a former member of the governing council of the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) which plays a key role in the shaping of UK research policy.
Professor Richardson said: “Norwich Research Park is a community of research organisations with world leading science credentials and I am delighted and honoured to have been appointed chair of Norwich Research Partners LLP.”
Anthony Habgood will continue to serve on the board which was further strengthened recently by the appointment of Mark Davies, chief executive at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Professor Ian Charles, director of the Institute of Food Research and founding director of the new Quadram Institute.
Dr Sally Ann Forsyth, chief executive officer, Norwich Research Park said: “David has been a valuable member of the board and his continued drive and enthusiasm will make him an excellent successor to Anthony, who has been instrumental in driving the Park forward over the past three years.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Anthony Habgood for his considerable contributions and welcome our latest members Professor Ian Charles and Mark Davies to the board. Their combined business, research and academic expertise will continue to further strengthen the Park’s position and raise its profile internationally.”
Norwich Research Partners LLP serves the interests of the Partners by promoting Norwich Research Park and developing it as a commercial destination. Home to more than fifty independent businesses Norwich Research Park is a partnership between the University of East Anglia, the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, four independent world-renowned research institutes namely the John Innes Centre, Institute of Food Research and the Earlham Institute (all strategically funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)) and The Sainsbury Laboratory linked to the Gatsby Charitable Foundation. The BBSRC is itself a partner as is the John Innes Foundation.
