Dale-Black forges new career with life sciences firm
Nottingham-based life sciences firm Forge Genetics has appointed Dr Sophie Dale-Black as its first advisor.
Dale-Black recently announced that she is leaving the British Business Bank to take up a portfolio career as a consultant, advisor and non-executive director.
At Forge Genetics she will sit on the advisory board, helping to shape strateies for groth.
After completing a PhD in chemistry and X-ray crystallography at Loughborough University and a postdoctoral research position at Newcastle University, Dale-Black built a career in research and innovation management at Nottingham and Loughborough universities.
She the moved to Innovate UK and, during her time there, ndertook a chief of staff-style role, supporting the chief executive, governing board and chair.
Dale-Black’s non-executive experience includes serving as vice chair of the Governing Council at the University of Leicester. At the University, she is a member of the Nomination and Remuneration Committees and also a trustee of its van Geest Foundation Cardiovascular Disease Research Fund. She has also held advisory positions on UK Research and Innovation-funded research programmes, and as a primary school governor.
Most recently, Dale-Black was a director at the British Business Bank, leading a team of senior managers across the Midlands and North of England.
Craig Woods, CEO of Forge Genetics, said: “Sophie has a strong track record of managing the research-to-innovation process, translating great ideas into real-world impacts. Her knowledge and experience of the UK innovation landscape will facilitate Forge Editing going from a lab-based gem to making gene therapies safer and more affordable.”
Dale-Black added: “I’m delighted to have this opportunity to support Forge Genetics on their exciting growth journey, where I can bring to the fore my interests in the life sciences sector, the commercialisation of academic research, and building business success for the Midlands region.”
Dale-Black is gradually transitioning away from her role at the British Business Bank to join the company officially on June 12.
