The Oxford Trust has appointed Michelle Webb as its new associate director of operations, strengthening operational leadership across its innovation programme and two Oxford-based innovation centres.
The UK charity, dedicated to advancing science innovation, education and enterprise, brings Webb on board with 15 years’ experience in the sector.
She joins from Oxford Innovation, the UK’s leading operator of innovation centres, which originally spun out from The Oxford Trust. Most recently, she served as centre manager at Harwell Innovation Centre in Oxfordshire.
In her new role, Webb will work alongside Nicki Campling, director of innovation and operations, overseeing delivery of the Trust’s innovation programme. Her responsibilities include operational leadership at the Wood Centre for Innovation in Headington — including the Science Oxford Centre and surrounding woodland — as well as the Oxford Centre for Innovation in the city centre.
Together, the two centres are home to 20 start-up and scale-up companies, alongside ecosystem support organisations.
Her appointment comes at a significant moment for the Trust, as construction continues on the Aspen Building at the Wood Centre for Innovation. Due for completion in July 2026, the 17,000 sq ft (1,600 sq m) development will provide additional high-quality Class II laboratories and technical workspace for start-ups and growing companies.
Steve Burgess, chief executive officer, The Oxford Trust said:
“We warmly welcome Michelle to The Oxford Trust. Her deep understanding of the innovation landscape in Oxford and beyond, coupled with her operational expertise, will strengthen our ability to deliver excellent programmes and spaces for entrepreneurs and high-growth companies.
“Michelle’s experience will be important as we continue to grow our impact and deliver new space and support for innovation to flourish.”
Michelle Webb, associate director of operations, The Oxford Trust added:
“I’m thrilled to be joining The Oxford Trust at such a dynamic time. The organisation’s focus on enabling science and technology enterprises to thrive aligns strongly with my passion for building environments where innovation can flourish.
“I look forward to working with the team to support operational excellence and help unlock new opportunities for the companies based in the two innovations centres, our partners and stakeholders.”
Webb will play a central role in operational planning and delivery across both sites, as well as in the continued development of the Trust’s innovation infrastructure and services.
Founded in 1985 by the late Sir Martin and Lady Audrey Wood, co-founders of Oxford Instruments, The Oxford Trust operates a self-sustaining charitable model.
Income generated from its innovation centres is reinvested into STEM education and engagement programmes delivered through Science Oxford, supporting science learning from early inspiration through to high-growth enterprise.
