THE man who fronted the arrival of Hiscox in York has joined the board of York Science Park after leaving the insurer earlier this year.

Alan Millard has been appointed to the board of York Science Park as a non-executive director having stepped down from his role as chief operating officer of Hiscox UK.

Mr Millard held the post from 2005 to 2017 during which time he lead the firm through its arrival into York, and the creation of its £19 million offices in Hungate.

As part of his role he was also responsible for the development of organisational strategy, initiatives and projects, along with all operations.

Tracey Smith, chief executive of York Science Park, said: “We are delighted to welcome Alan to the board. His experience, expertise and connections will be a great addition to our team.

“Looking to the future we will be working collaboratively with our key stakeholders to help create angel and investor activity around our resident companies and develop programmes to support business growth on the Science Park.”

Mr Millard also sits on the board of a range of businesses, including the Table Group and DueDil, along with lecturing on Innovation and Ethical Leadership at York St John University.

Alongside his experience of large commercial organisations, he also has experience and knowledge of startup and SME support, having managed the Hiscox Futures programme, and the development of the Hiscox Business Club.

Mr Millard said: “I am very passionate about innovation and I am excited to see some of the creative work being carried out by Science Park residents.

“I have joined the board to help York Science Park give local entrepreneurs and businesses the best chance to turn their great ideas into commercial reality.”

York Science Park was established in 1991 and is now home to more than 130 companies, providing purpose built laboratory and meeting space alongside hot desking and virtual office provision for start-up companies through to large, established businesses.

The Science Park provides 137,000 sq ft of purpose built business incubation space in the Innovation, Bio and IT centres, The Catalyst, grow-on space in Enterprise House, and Springboard start-up space.

Residents include businesses in the creative and digital, technology, media, biotechnology, agri-tech and health sectors.