Andrew Hodgson Chair, Innovation Greater Manchester

Andrew Hodgson brings extensive experience in business leadership, regional development and innovation-led growth, having held previous executive and non-executive roles in the private and public sectors across both large corporate and SME organisations.

After graduating from the University of Manchester, Andrew has built a career in international technology, engineering and manufacturing, developing an extensive network in political and economic leadership both regionally and nationally. His current work across the North of England includes Northern Value, established  in 2008, which supports businesses and entrepreneurs.

A number of world firsts in areas ranging from underwater robotics and data, electric vehicles, energy schemes, energy from waste and the circular economy have created significant economic value driven by real world impact. Andrew is Chair of the Global Underwater Hub and ICR Integrity Ltd, has been Executive Chairman of Recycling Lives Ltd, Total Vehicle Solutions Group Ltd, and Avid Technology Group Ltd, and senior executive roles at Atlantic Superconnection LLP, BAE Systems Ltd and Spirit Aerosystems Inc, and Airbus SAS.  He has served on several Government-backed initiatives, including the UKRI Electric Revolution Programme Board and the Global Skills for the UK Task Force. As Chair of the North East Local Enterprise Partnership, Andrew oversaw the establishment of a successful innovation programme bringing together local authorities, HE/FE, and business organisations, in turn leading the innovation strategy for the NP11 on behalf of the North of England.

He has won a number of business accolades, including the Queen’s Award for Industry three times, and was awarded an OBE for services to manufacturing and the North East economy.