Global innovator to chair Innovation Precinct Advisory Board

Global social innovator, impact investor and entrepreneur Geoff Gourley has been announced as the new chair of the Swinburne Innovation Precinct Advisory Board.

Geoff Gourley is the founder of social enterprise accelerator and impact consultancy One10 Group and holds a portfolio of purpose-driven companies including a globally-focussed Impact Investment Fund.

He joined the board in 2020 and brings more than 25 years’ of experience in social enterprise, not-for-profits and entrepreneurship, working across a diverse range of sectors including design, property, energy, technology and the environment.

Swinburne Chief Scientist and Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) Professor Virginia Kilborn said the appointment would help ensure the continuing growth of the precinct.

‘Geoff has provided excellent guidance and direction during his time on the Swinburne Innovation Precinct Advisory Board. I’m delighted that he will now lead the Advisory Board as we aim to advance Swinburne’s global leadership position in technology, innovation and entrepreneurship,’ Professor Kilborn said.

‘Geoff’s experience, expertise and connections with the broader innovation system will ensure that Swinburne’s Innovation Precinct continues to bring people and technology together for a better world.’

Looking ahead for the Innovation Precinct

Geoff Gourley said he was honoured to take on the role of chair and thanked the outgoing members of the Advisory Board.

‘I look forward to continuing to support the fantastic work that the Swinburne Innovation Precinct and executive teams do on a daily basis,’ he said.

‘Backed by a very capable Advisory Board, the Innovation Precinct is set for a landmark 2022. I personally want to thank Elaine Saunders, Bronwyn Fox and Bronwyn Le Grice for their past support, encouragement and efforts.’

Professor Kilborn also thanked outgoing chair Dr Elaine Saunders for her leadership of the Advisory Board.

‘Elaine’s contribution has been fundamental to the success of Swinburne’s Innovation Precinct research endeavours,’ she said.

‘I wish to express my sincere thanks to Elaine for her continuing support and commitment to Swinburne and to the Innovation Precinct Advisory Board over the years.’

‘I would also like to thank former Swinburne Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) Professor Bronwyn Fox and Bronwyn Le Grice who are both stepping down from our Advisory Board.’

‘We are very much looking forward to continuing to work with Bronwyn Fox in her new role as Chief Scientist at CSIRO and with Bronwyn Le Grice as she continues to grow her relationship with Swinburne in other capacities.’

View the full Advisory Board on the Innovation Precinct page.