Scarborough Group International (SGI), development partner for Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park, has appointed Deb Hetherington as Director of Innovation Ecosystems; a key step in its ambition to create innovation-led ecosystems that drive regional growth, generate high-value jobs, and position the UK as a global leader in science and technology.
A self-employed innovation consultant and prominent figure in the North’s health, tech and digital sectors, Deb currently holds several key roles across the public and private sector, helping to shape strategies for regional growth. She is an award-winning growth consultant, with a keen interest in the field of artificial intelligence where she advises businesses on their AI adoption journeys. She is also an Associate at Leeds Beckett University, where she supports research in the field of AI adoption and a Forum member at the Productivity Institute, contributing to the discussion on improving SME productivity for increased national economic impact. In her role as Executive Director at Leeds Digital, Deb supports the social and economic growth of the regions’ digital community. Prior to establishing Hey Innovation, Deb held the position of Head of Innovation at Bruntwood SciTech, where she developed and executed innovation strategies for developments across the UK.
In her new role at SGI, Deb will focus on creating pathways that connect businesses with opportunities across the Group’s developments while strengthening partnerships with local universities, NHS trusts and other key stakeholders. Her work will centre on two flagship projects: Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park and the Old Medical School in Leeds, both of which are set to become significant drivers of innovation and regional growth.
Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park is a world-class destination for health and wellbeing innovation. The 80-acre development is home to cutting-edge facilities, including the Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre and the English Institute of Sport Sheffield, and provides space for a wide range of health-related businesses. The site builds on the city’s Olympic legacy, aiming to drive research, collaboration and commercial activity that enhances health and wellbeing on a global scale.
The Old Medical School, situated on the Leeds General Infirmary site, forms part of Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust’s Innovation Village. The redevelopment will transform the historic Grade II* listed building into a hub for medical technology, life sciences and healthcare innovation. As the first phase of Leeds’ wider Innovation Arc, the project will help establish the city as a leading destination for health and technology innovation, leveraging its strong academic, clinical, and industrial partnerships.
Speaking about her appointment, Deb said: “Through my experience working on multiple developments and building networks across innovation sites around the world, it’s become increasingly clear that the most important element for success is in the strength of partnerships within those ecosystems. Building impactful and strategic relationships across public and private sector, with a shared vision and a strong appetite for collaboration, is key to growth. SGI’s projects are uniquely positioned to harness these connections, and I’m excited to join the team at such a pivotal stage to help shape and expand their innovation strategy and footprint.”
Kevin McCabe, Founder and Chairman of SGI, added: “Deb’s appointment reflects our commitment to advancing our innovation agenda. Her expertise in building ecosystems and her deep understanding of the needs of digital and tech businesses make her an invaluable addition to our team. We’re confident her leadership will help us realise the full potential of Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park and the Old Medical School in Leeds, creating thriving hubs for innovation and economic growth.”
