Panel discussion on the innovation ecosystem within Greater Manchester.
Speakers
Stephy Liu
Dr Tarek Gaber
Dr Angel Jimenez-Aranda
Agenda
6:00pm - Arrive
6:15pm - Introductions
6:30pm - Presentation
7:30pm - Questions and answers, followed by Networking
8:00pm - Close
Synopsis
Established businesses and startups alike have a persistent requirement to innovate and bring forward new ideas with the products and services they offer. Set up as a panel discussion, this event is looking to highlight the innovation pathways and networks that exists in Greater Manchester. The panellist are heavily involved in programs both local and national, driven through local universities and business hubs to offer guidance and support to those local business wishing to engage and progress their ideas.
About the speakers
Stephy Liu is a senior professional at the GM Business Growth Hub, where she supports business growth, innovation, and collaboration across the Greater Manchester region. With extensive experience in stakeholder engagement, enterprise development, and client-focused advisory work, she is known for her strong integrity, commitment to going the extra mile, and ability to understand and respond to diverse organisational needs. She actively contributes to the regional innovation ecosystem, regularly engaging with business leaders, academic partners, and public-sector stakeholders to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Stephy brings a strong passion for supporting SMEs and driving inclusive economic growth, making her a valuable contributor to initiatives that bridge industry, innovation, and community impact.
Dr. Tarek Gaber is a Senior Lecturer in Cyber Security and Artificial Intelligence at the University of Salford, with more than two decades of academic and research experience spanning cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, secure systems, and Safe AI. He has authored over 100 scholarly publications and has successfully led and contributed to major research and innovation projects funded by organisations such as Innovate UK - ICURe, GCHQ, Research England, and UKAEA. His research focuses on resilient AI, AI security, secure digital infrastructures, and the practical deployment of trustworthy AI solutions within industry and the public sector.
Recognised among Stanford University's top 2% of scientists globally and actively engaged in Knowledge Transfer Partnerships and SME innovation initiatives, Dr. Gaber brings extensive expertise in translating cutting-edge research into real-world impact, making him a highly valued contributor to discussions on cybersecurity, AI, digital transformation, and innovation-led growth.
Dr Angel Jimenez-Aranda is an Associate Professor of Digital Transformation at the University of Salford and a member of the Centre for Sustainable Innovation at Salford Business School. With expertise in digital transformation, he has a strong track record of integrating emerging technologies to drive innovation and efficiency across industries.
Before joining academia, Angel spent over a decade leading digitalisation initiatives in both the public and private sectors. He played a key role in modernising hospital systems within the NHS and led factory and process digitalisation in the manufacturing industry. His experience spans health, manufacturing, and enterprise environments, where he has successfully navigated the complexities of digital adoption. Angel is passionate about helping organisations harness digital technologies to unlock growth opportunities, accelerate innovation, and gain a competitive edge.
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This event is brought to you by: Manchester branch
