The UK Semiconductor Centre (UKSC), a government-backed hub supporting the domestic microchip centre, has appointed two new directors to its leadership team.
Launched in 2024 following the landmark National Semiconductor Strategy, UKSC serves as a gateway to the country’s semiconductor industry, attracting international investment, providing technical and strategic support to domestic firms and driving skills needed for the critical sector.
UKSC has announced the appointment of Martin O’Sullivan as its new director of investment.
He joins UKSC after spending a number of years in technology equity research and capital markets. He has worked in semiconductor R&D roles at Toshiba and Philips Research Laboratories.
In his new role, O’Sullivan will be responsible for accelerating the scaleup and growth of semiconductor companies in the UK, leading on investor relations and encouraging founders to access public and private funds.
“I am delighted to be joining the UK Semiconductor Centre at such a significant moment for the sector as the UK builds on its significant semiconductor strengths to take advantage of one of the most important industrial opportunities we have faced,” O’Sullivan said.
“We know that financial scaleup continues to be a barrier for businesses operating the UK and that there is a clear role for the UKSC to improve ecosystem legibility for investors and strengthen the interface between companies and investment capital.
“I am thoroughly looking forward to help solve this challenge and ensure UK businesses have the best possible chance of scaling, growing and reaching their full potential.”
Also set to join UKSC is Steve Taylor, a former employee of Arm and Paragraf, who will be taking the role of director of strategic marketing.
“The UK has exceptional strengths across semiconductor design, photonics, advanced materials and emerging technologies. The opportunity now is to bring these together into a clear and compelling narrative that resonates globally,” said Taylor.
“There is a strong foundation to build on, but it can often appear fragmented from the outside. The role of the UK Semiconductor Centre is to help connect that picture, making it easier for industry, investors and partners to understand where the UK’s strengths lie and how they can engage.”