News

International CEO to lead regional economic growth

(3 April 2006)

A regional body which links Durham and other Universities to the regional healthcare market has appointed international businessman Mike Asher as its new chief executive starting April 2006.

The Centre of Excellence for Life Sciences (CELS), an organisation driving growth of the healthcare economy in North East England, has appointed Toronto-born Asher. Mike’s experience in the health industry includes, most recently, working as a consultant for the Association for Greater Manchester Primary Care Trusts, helping to develop a new approach to healthcare service commissioning. He also has other medical experience from time spent at female sterilisation company Femcare, medical diagnostics company Drew Scientific Group PLC which specialised in diabetes and haematology testing systems, healthcare company Coulter Electronics Limited and Instrumentation Laboratory. The Centre of Excellence for Life Sciences (CELS) is funded by One NorthEast. CELS’ remit is to drive the healthcare economy of the North East. It acts as a growth catalyst for research and development activity in the region. Working with both universities and business, it is dedicated to overseeing the implementation of a regional growth strategy for healthcare, including identifying regional strengths and opportunities in R&D, technology transfer and business development. CELS also acts as a coordinating hub for academic and business cluster activity. CELS receives support through the European Regional Development Fund to regenerate the region and create a vibrant economy.

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