We’re delighted to announce the appointment of Deb Hetherington as our new Director of Innovation Ecosystems. This strategic hire represents an important step in our 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.
Deb is a highly respected figure in the North’s health, tech and digital sectors. As a self-employed innovation consultant, she has worked extensively across both the public and private sectors, shaping strategies for regional growth. Her impressive track record includes advising businesses on artificial intelligence adoption, supporting academic research at Leeds Beckett University, and contributing to national economic discussions as a Forum member at the Productivity Institute. In her role as Executive Director at Leeds Digital, Deb has played a key part in driving the social and economic growth of the region’s digital community.
Before establishing her consultancy, Hey Innovation, Deb was Head of Innovation at Bruntwood SciTech, where she successfully developed and implemented innovation strategies for sites across the UK. Her experience and expertise make her ideally suited to lead our efforts in creating dynamic, innovation-focused communities.
In her new role, Deb will work to connect businesses with opportunities across our developments while strengthening relationships with universities, NHS trusts and other key stakeholders. Her focus will be on two of our flagship projects: Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park and The Old Medical School in Leeds.
Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park is already recognised as a world-class destination for health and wellbeing innovation. The 80-acre development is home to state-of-the-art 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. Building on the city’s Olympic legacy, the Park drives collaboration, research and commercial activity aimed at enhancing global health and wellbeing.
The Old Medical School, situated on the Leeds General Infirmary site, forms part of Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust’s Innovation Village. This transformative project will see the historic Grade II* listed building redeveloped into a hub for medical technology, life sciences, and healthcare innovation. As the first phase of Leeds’ wider Innovation Arc, the Old Medical School will play a vital role in establishing the city as a leading destination for health and technology innovation.
Commenting on 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 strength of partnerships within these ecosystems is key to success. Building impactful and strategic relationships across the public and private sectors, with a shared vision and a strong appetite for collaboration, is essential for growth. Scarborough Group’s projects are uniquely positioned to harness these connections, and I am 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 Scarborough Group International, 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 are confident that 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.”
We’re proud to continue building places that inspire and enable people, businesses and communities to thrive. With Deb’s expertise, we look forward to driving innovation and leaving a lasting positive impact on the regions where we operate.
