Warwickshire business innovation manager retires

A BUSINESS manager who took on a six-month placement and stayed in his role for nine years helping fledgling businesses has retired.

John Barnes has stepped down from his role as manager of the Warwick Innovation Centre, housed on the University of Warwick Science Park, to spend more time with his family and to pursue his other passions of cycling and West Bromwich Albion.

The 65-year-old has been part of a successful team at the Science Park for more than 11 years and supported a range of companies, particularly high-tech and innovative new businesses.

He was originally manager of the sister innovation centre, in Binley near Coventry, but agreed to transfer to Warwick for just six months to oversee the third phase of development there in 2001.

He ended up staying at his new home for nearly a decade.

Mr Barnes previously worked for six years with Staffordshire Business Link and Chamber of Commerce and had also run his own business, following a career in the engineering equipment and supplies sector.

David Rowe, chief executive of the University of Warwick Science Park, said: “Our centre managers are often called upon to carry out a wide range of duties for our tenants, giving help and advice along the way.

“Starting a new business – particularly when it’s a brand new idea of concept – is not easy and John understood that.

“He knew the stresses and strains that businesses were under and was often adviser, counsellor and father-figure all rolled into one.

“That was along with the day-to-day duties of managing the centre. We all wish him the very best in his retirement.”

Mr Barnes is replaced by Karen Aston, who transfers over from her role as business innovation manager at the sister site in Binley, while Penny Robb takes over in Binley.