A MAJOR reshuffle of the organisational structure of York Science Park is being undertaken with the business centre falling under new ownership.

York Science Park, which sits on the University of York’s Heslington campus, will become part of York Conferences.

York Conferences is a subsidiary of the University of York and was set up to promote and operate more than 200 of the university’s venues as conference facilities.

While the previous board of York Science Park Ltd will remain in place, led by professor Saul Tendler, the organisation will now be run by newly appointed general manager Claire Bennett.

Ms Bennett joins the business from York Conferences, where she has spent the last 14 years as conference and events manager.

The Press reported last week that former York Science Park chief executive Tracey Smith had left the organisation to take a new position as deputy chairman for the Institute of Directors North Yorkshire division.

In her new role at York Science Park, Ms Bennett will lead on the delivery of the organisational strategy, strengthening existing ties with the University of York, ensuring residents continue to receive the support they need to grow and thrive and overseeing the introduction of new services.

Ms Bennett said: “This is an exciting time for the business. We’re planning to launch a number of new innovation services and a brand new incubation programme for the region’s most exciting and innovative companies.

“York Science Park will continue to be a place where innovation and creativity sit alongside world-leading research and development from the University of York.

“I’m really looking forward to working with the team here, and getting to know the wide range of resident companies.

“We will all be working extremely hard to ensure we continue to provide high calibre support to the companies that call the Science Park home.”

Established in 1991 and now home to more than 130 companies, York Science Park provides purpose built, high specification, fully serviced office, laboratory and meeting space alongside hot desking and virtual office provision for start-up companies through to large, established businesses.

Jon Greenwood, director of Commercial Services at the University of York University said: “Claire brings a wealth of experience and customer focus to the Science Park team, which will strengthen its already strong reputation as a nurturing, supportive home to innovation. I look forward to seeing it go from strength to strength.”

York was one of the first dedicated Science Parks in the UK when it opened in 1991. Residents include businesses in the creative and digital, technology, media, biotechnology, agri-tech and health sectors.