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Ian Kenyon, current Chief Finance Officer (CFO) of Cancer Research UK, will become the first CFO of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), Science Minister Jo Johnson confirmed today (8 September 2017).
Ian will work closely with UKRI Chief Executive, Sir Mark Walport, its Board, and the Executive Chairs to establish UKRI and ensure it plays a central role in delivering the governments Industrial Strategy.
As CFO, Ian will ensure the new organisation operates efficiently and effectively as a unified body, enabling UKRI to maximise opportunities for the UKs world-class research and innovation base.
Ian will have oversight of UKRIs 6 billion per annum portfolio of research and innovation funding which will grow over the course of this Spending Review, as part of the 4.7 billion R&D investment announced during last years Autumn statement.
Science Minister Jo Johnson said:
Ians extensive experience in both the private and charity sectors means he is the perfect choice to handle UKRIs financial management and ensure we are supporting the continued success of the UKs innovative research base in its efforts to address global challenges.
UKRI Chief Executive Designate Professor Sir Mark Walport said:
I am delighted to welcome Ian to the team and look forward to working closely with him on the establishment of UK Research and Innovation. Ian is a superb addition to the organisation. His experience at Cancer Research UK, knowledge of the sector and expertise in financial and corporate services, will be invaluable to the organisation.
Ian Kenyon said:
I am incredibly excited to be appointed as the first Chief Finance Officer of UK Research and Innovation and become part of the team delivering upon the terrific opportunities that UKRI presents for the UKs research and innovation sectors. This role builds on my experience to date and is a natural move for me from Cancer Research UK.
UKRI represents a huge opportunity for the UK, building on the successes and world class science, arts and humanities that we already deliver, as well as to work more collaboratively and across research disciplines to benefit everyone in the UK and more widely. I look forward to working with my new colleagues to deliver on the vision.