Edinburgh Napier University has announced Lynne Cadenhead—a serial entrepreneur, experienced tech sector leader, and chair of Women’s Enterprise Scotland—as its newest entrepreneur in residence.

A Napier alumna with a background in life sciences, professor Lynne Cadenhead has started and grown three successful businesses, and has more than 25 years of entrepreneurial, equity investment, and policy experience.

Lynne has drawn recognition for her work to support women into entrepreneurship through her post as chair of Women’s Enterprise Scotland, and as women’s advocate and investor relations director for Tricapital Angels Limited.

In her new role as entrepreneur in residence, Lynne will join The Royal Society’s entrepreneur in residence scheme, a part of the Science, Industry, and Translation programme. It aims to enhance knowledge and awareness in UK universities of cutting-edge industrial science, research, and innovation.

Lynne is set to be actively involved in fostering a more entrepreneurial environment for women across Edinburgh Napier, reflecting the university’s commitment to encouraging and supporting women in entrepreneurship.

Speaking on the appointment, Lynne said: “I am honoured to be taking up the role of entrepreneur in residence at Edinburgh Napier University.

“If we want to unlock Scotland’s economic potential, we need to champion the entrepreneurial spirit across academia and contribute to a culture of innovation.

“Drawing from my own journey, I am particularly excited about supporting and inspiring women in enterprise, as they face numerous additional barriers when it comes to starting and growing a business.

“This new role will allow me to actively contribute to the university’s commitment to fostering an inclusive entrepreneurial mindset for all.”

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Nick Fannin, head of enterprise at Bright Red Triangle, the university’s enterprise hub, also commented: “We are thrilled to have Lynne Cadenhead join us as our latest entrepreneur in residence.

“Lynne’s incredible personal experience in building companies and her commitment to supporting the next generation of entrepreneurial women aligns perfectly with Edinburgh Napier’s mission to nurture and support the women in our university community, enabling them to have real impact in their academic careers, and to commercialise their research.

“We believe Lynne’s expertise will have a profound impact on our students, staff, and alumni as they embark on their entrepreneurial journeys.

“Lynne’s presence will be a tremendous asset to our community, and we are committed to bringing about positive change.”