Harwell Science and Innovation Campus and ARC (Advanced Research Clusters) today announced that Jim Stretton will be appointed as Managing Director. Stuart Grant will step down as CEO to take on a new role in Asia-Pacific later this year. He will remain Non-Executive Chair of ARC and will work with Jim to ensure a seamless transition.

Jim joined ARC in 2021 as CFO & COO and together with Stuart has been instrumental in shaping the evolution and growth of both Harwell and ARC. Over the last four years, the Arlington and Harwell businesses have been integrated into a high-quality operating team, 1.3 million square feet has been developed, £900 million of financing placed, 880,000 square feet of new leases secured and £170 million of non-core dispositions completed.

Jim Stretton said “I am honoured to be appointed Managing Director and I’m excited to lead our fantastic team and work alongside our partners at Brookfield, the Science and Technology Facilities Council and UKAEA. Over the last four years we have built a leading portfolio with the foundations set for strong growth in the years ahead.”

Stuart Grant said “It has been a privilege to lead and build out the ARC and Harwell businesses. Jim brings vision and leadership from his decades of experience and his in-depth knowledge of our portfolio. I look forward to seeing his impact and continuing to work with him in my new role as Non-Executive Chair.”

Launched in 2021, ARC was created through the merger of Brookfield Asset Management’s investments in the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus and Arlington. Today, ARC’s portfolio comprises 2 million square feet, including the recently opened 145,000 sq ft. Moderna Innovation and Technology Centre,  and 3.3 million of development potential in prime innovation locations across the UK’s golden triangle.