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Lou Cordwell OBE named as CEO of Unit M

13 Dec 2024

The University has appointed Professor Lou Cordwell as the inaugural Chief Executive Officer of Unit M, our newly launched initiative to connect the University with, and catalyse, the regional innovation ecosystem to drive inclusive growth.

Lou Cordwell

Unit M is designed to address all aspects of the innovation challenge – from R&D through to innovation adoption, talent and skills – by making the University’s world-class research, innovation assets and talent more accessible to all. It aims to address key regional and national challenges in productivity, innovation adoption, and economic inclusivity. 

Earlier this year, Lou Cordwell OBE was appointed Professor of Innovation at the Manchester Institute of Innovation Research (MIOIR) at Alliance Manchester Business School (AMBS), and Special Advisor to the Office of the President and Vice-Chancellor. Lou brings a wealth of experience in fostering innovation, economic transformation and cross-sector collaboration. As CEO, Lou will lead Unit M’s mission to maximise the University's impact for the benefit of the region’s economy and society. 

Lou began her career working for WPP before founding the Manchester-based digital design studio magneticNorth (mN). In 2021, mN merged with Fluxx, creating the UK’s leading design and innovation consultancy, Magnetic. She previously developed the strategic masterplan for Sister, one of Europe’s most ambitious innovation district projects. She has spent the past year jointly leading the University’s Regional Innovation Review, which provides an in-depth analysis and roadmap for how the University can create a world-class inclusive innovation ecosystem in the region.  

Lou is also Chair of Greater Manchester’s Business Board and an angel investor, particularly focusing on female tech founders. Lou was awarded an OBE in the 2018 New Year’s Honours for services to the creative and digital economy.