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The Imperial Enterprise Leadership Team spearheads the university's mission to translate world-class research into impactful ventures.

Comprising experienced professionals and visionary leaders, the team fosters a dynamic ecosystem that bridges academia, industry and entrepreneurship. They guide the strategic direction of Imperial’s enterprise activity, champion innovation across faculties and ensure that ideas with commercial or societal potential have a clear path to scale.

By shaping partnerships, supporting commercialisation and strengthening operational delivery, the team enables researchers, students and partners to collaborate effectively and bring new technologies, startups and solutions to life — driving real impact in the UK and globally.

Imperial Enterprise Leadership

  • Alistair McDermott

    Personal details

    Alistair McDermott Research and Enterprise Operating Officer

    Area of responsibility:

    • Oversees strategic direction and governance of operations
    • Leads cross-functional initiatives
    • Focuses on long-term capability building and policy development

  • Alex Elkins

    Personal details

    Alex Elkins Co-Director of Enterprise (Partnerships)

    Area of responsibility:

    • Building and strengthening industry partnerships that connect Imperial’s research with business and government challenges.

    • Scoping and delivering consultancy, knowledge exchange, and cross-disciplinary innovation projects across deep tech, AI, sustainability, life sciences and healthcare.

    • Providing strategic guidance, thought leadership and policy insight for organisations looking to engage with Imperial or navigate the wider innovation landscape.

  • VACANT

    Personal details

    VACANT Co-Director of Enterprise (Commercialisation)