3M BIC appoints new CEO

The 3M Buckley Innovation Centre (3M BIC), in Huddersfield, has appointed Henry Rigg as its new chief executive officer, following the retirement of Sue Cooke.

Henry brings extensive experience in business development and enterprise support. 

He previously led programmes at Leeds City Council, the Leeds City Region LEP and NatWest, where he supported high-growth start-ups in Northern England. 

Henry will oversee the centre’s continued growth, including the creation of a new health and wellbeing innovation centre set to open in 2026 at the University of Huddersfield’s National Health Innovation Campus.

Henry said: “I am thrilled to be joining the 3M BIC as CEO and to build on the incredible work done by Sue and the team. 

“I’ve been aware of the centre for many years as a driving force in innovation, supporting SMEs and fostering collaboration across industries. 

“I am looking forward to working with the team, partners and businesses to strengthen its role in the region’s innovation and enterprise ecosystem, in particular in the health and wellbeing sectors.”

The 3M BIC provides businesses with access to technology, research and collaboration opportunities, helping them innovate and grow.

Professor Tim Thornton, chair of the 3M BIC Board and deputy vice chancellor at the University of Huddersfield, added: “We are delighted to welcome Henry as the new chief executive officer of the 3M BIC. 

“His extensive experience in business development and innovation will be invaluable in driving the centre forward, strengthening its role in supporting regional businesses and fostering collaboration.

“This is an exciting time for Henry to join the 3M BIC, with the upcoming launch of the new health and wellbeing centre on the university’s National Health Innovation Campus in 2026.

“The centre will play a key role in advancing health innovation across the region, supporting new and emerging enterprises.”

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