Entrepreneurs in residence

School of Business

Our entrepreneurs in residence bring real-world expertise and entrepreneurial practice to students, academics and the small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) who receive support from UCLan.

The entrepreneurs in residence contribute to teaching, learning and employability. This could be through engaging in any of (but not limited to) the following ways:

  • Masterclasses, keynotes, Q&A sessions
  • Providing an innovative project for students to work on
  • Advising on curriculum relevant to industry

Meet the network

Robert-Binns-EIR
Robert Binns
CEO of Cotton Court Business Centres and For Your Curls

Robert is a visionary leader, fusing corporate experience with entrepreneurial passion. He has worked for key global players in technology services across aerospace, defence, manufacturing, finance, education, health and the third sector. He is a highly driven entrepreneur with a proven track record in the technology, cosmetics, and property sectors. 

Mich-Bondesio-EIR
Michelle Bondesio
Business Coach & Consultant, Writer, Podcaster, Creating Cadence/Bondesio C&C

Michelle (Mich) Bondesio is the founder of Creating Cadence, the author of The Cadence Effect, and the host of the Creating Cadence podcast. Prior to starting her solopreneur journey in 2018, Michelle built a 20-year career in communications and project management, working across digital and creative industries.

Joanne-Boyd-EIR
Joanne Boyd
Managing Director, CJX Business Services

Prior to starting her female owned consulting business, Joanne has had 25+ years’ experience working with Fortune 1000 companies in the global technology and IT sector in both a senior leadership and board member capacity.

Rupert-Gatty-EIR
Rupert Gatty
Founder & CEO, CoolKit Ltd

Following an earlier career in vehicle rental, Rupert established CoolKit in 2005, which has since grown to become the UK's largest, multi-award-winning manufacturer of refrigerated vans. Sixteen years later, as industry leaders, CoolKit employs more than 120 invaluable colleagues and expect to produce more than 2,000 vehicle conversions and sell more than 500 complete refrigerated vans.  

Celia Gaze EIR
Celia Gaze
Founder and CEO, The Wellbeing Farm B Corp Events Venue

Celia Gaze is the Founder and CEO of The Wellbeing Farm, a unique wedding and events venue in Lancashire, UK, that combines sustainability and wellbeing principles. With a background in NHS management, Celia transitioned from a high-pressure career to pursue her passion for creating a space that fosters joy, creativity and a unique experience.

Lara Harrison EIR
Lara Harrison
Founder & Managing Director, Superstar PAs Ltd

After a successful 15-year career in Corporate Banking and Financial Services, Lara transitioned into entrepreneurship by founding a Virtual PA Agency in 2015. Starting as a solo venture, she has since grown the business into a team of 16, providing global administrative support to businesses and individuals, helping clients reclaim their most valuable asset - time.

Glen-Higson-EIR
Glen Higson
Founder and Managing Director, Business Insight 3 Ltd

Glen is an electronic security and business intelligence entrepreneur.  He has over 30 years’ experience as a security industry professional, having worked for and with some of the biggest names in the industry. In 2009 he founded Business Insight 3, experts in human, vehicle and object detection, with the aim of providing cutting edge technology to all sectors and types of business.

news-eir russell hogarth
Russell Hogarth
Honorary Fellow, Community Engagement Ambassador

Russell is a philanthropist and social entrepreneur, with a special interest in equality, diversity, and inclusion. He ran a successful business for 25 years before entering the world of academia and community engagement and his expertise in entrepreneurship, lifelong learning and active citizenship is now recognised both nationally and internationally.  

Michael Huckerby EIR
Michael Huckerby
Director of Huckerby Hotels, Huckerby Hotels

Michael Huckerby is a key player in the local hospitality industry, boasting a robust background in media, creative, and digital marketing. His entrepreneurial philosophy prioritises people and community at the core of every strategy, which has proven effective in his latest venture, The Lawrence in Padiham - a multi award winning hotel and venue.

liz-taylor
Liz Taylor
CEO of Taylor Lynn Corporation

Liz Taylor has been at the forefront of the events industry for over 30 years, as CEO of the award-winning Taylor Lynn Corporation (TLC). Liz is the market leader in the creation of events that push back the boundaries of design, technology, and theatrical presentation. Clients range from global leaders to celebrities, sports stars, blue-chip giants, private individuals, charities, international brands, and media companies; plus, a Royal guest or two.

Please note: views and opinions of members in the network are their own and not that of the University.

Contact us for enquiries relating to entrepreneurs in residence