Our Board

Douglas Robertson
XXXX, Newcastle University

Douglas has worked in the University sector since 1983. Douglas takes a strong interest in the development of technology businesses and regional economic development. He is on several company Boards as well as RTC North and is active nationally in the field of technology transfer as Chair Elect of PraxisUnico.

As Director of Business Development and Regional Affairs at Newcastle University Douglas oversees the negotiation of the University’s external project portfolio (circa £100m p.a.) in research and knowledge transfer and contributes to a number of strategic University projects.

Michael Smith
Corporate Finance Partner, Tait Walker

Michael is a Chartered Accountant and was previously with an international firm for 11 years. Michael started Tait Walker Corporate Finance in 2000 and is recognised as the leading dealmaker for owner-managed businesses in the North East of England. His corporate finance experience is broad, ranging from flotations through to substantial disposals and large MBOs.

Alan J Smith OBE, DL
Chairman, redboxdesign group

Alan is an architect and interior designer who has contributed widely to the regeneration of the urban and cultural landscape of North East England. His works include major developments in the commercial, education, residential, hospitality and sports sectors on a national and international platform.

He is the Founding Chairman of the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art in Gateshead and spent many years on the Board of Northern Arts helping to attract international artists and arts based capital works projects to the region.

Dr David G Parker

David established the Parker Consultancy in 2001 following a 25 year career with ICI, covering the fields of catalysis, high performance materials and radiotracers. His last role in ICI was as senior manager with responsibility for the corporate research portfolio.

The Parker Consultancy works at the interface of industry and academia typically managing large collaborative programmes.

David has held several visiting academic appointments including a visiting professorship at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne, published more than 75 papers and patents and is a Chartered Chemist and Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry. He has been an RTC Board member since 1994