BT Business CIO Alison Mitchell has been appointed executive director of Sensor City in Liverpool.
The collaborative venture between Liverpool John Moores University and the University of Liverpool will drive sensor technology and development across the UK and is one of four flagship University Enterprise Zones in the country.
An alumna of both university partners, Mitchell will help to establish Sensor City as a national asset for emerging technologies.
“I am truly excited to be leading Sensor City. Sensor technology is driving the next generation of products and innovations that can transform lives and the economy,” she said.
“The technology that will be developed at Sensor City will support a modern industrial strategy and boost productivity across a range of sectors from health to transport.
“With the global sensor market currently worth $490 billion and growing at over 10 per cent each year, Sensor City presents an incredible opportunity for the UK and for Liverpool.
“I am looking forward to unlocking the wealth of expertise that exists between Liverpool’s two leading universities in collaborating with the region’s highly capable SME community to put Liverpool at the forefront of sensor technology development and innovation.”
Mitchell brings a wealth of high-level industry experience to benefit this new role. She helped to transform telecom giant BT’s products, services and technical delivery.
Professor Nigel Weatherill, vice chancellor of Liverpool John Moores University and chair of the board at Sensor City, said: “I am delighted Alison is leading Sensor City.
“Alison brings the ideal industry and technological acumen to the initiative which can leverage the academic expertise that exists between Liverpool John Moores University and the University Of Liverpool, for the benefit of our graduate and business community.
“It is this kind of pioneering partnership that will enhance Liverpool’s collective competiveness as the leading British city that can address modern industrial challenges through sensor technology.”
Professor Janet Beer, vice chancellor of the University of Liverpool, said: “Alison brings with her considerable industry knowledge, experience and insight which will ensure that Sensor City achieves its vision to put Liverpool at the forefront of sensor technology development and drive forward innovation, create jobs and boost growth for the City Region.”