Derry's Adrian Johnston appointed Belfast’s new Innovation Commissioner

The Community Foundation for Northern Ireland has sent their congratulations to their Chairperson, Dr Adrian Johnston MBE, on his appointment as Belfast’s new Innovation Commissioner. He will officially take up the role in January 2025.

Adrian has been a Trustee of the Foundation since 2019 and was appointed Chair in 2021. He has been involved with the Community Voluntary Sector for over 25 years across reconciliation and youth work.

He joined Catalyst in January 2022 as Director of Strategic Business Development. Prior to this he was Head of Digital Catapult NI supporting businesses and the public sector to adopt emerging digital technologies. He also has 20 years technology leadership experience having previously worked for Seagate Technology in their Springtown facility heading the Data Science and Analytics team.

In 2019 Adrian was awarded the Ulster University Graduate of the year and received an MBE for services to peace-building and the community in NI. 

Róisín Wood, Chief Executive Officer of the Community Foundation for Northern Ireland said: “We extend our heartiest congratulations to our Chairperson, Dr Adrian Johnston MBE, on his appointment as Innovation Commissioner for Innovation City Belfast (ICB). At the Foundation, our mission is ‘to work hand in hand with communities to build a better future’ – a strategy Adrian was key in developing.

"The commitment and leadership he has shown as Chair of the Foundation is indicative of the approach he will take as Innovation Commissioner, supporting sustainable growth and promoting Belfast as a global home for innovation. Adrian’s experience in technology, philanthropy and innovation is a recipe for success.

"We look forward to working with him and ICB to encourage investment in Belfast to bring value to every citizen, whether through increased employment, education, or building a better connected, healthier city. These gaols epitomise the values of the VCSE sector, and we look forward to supporting cross-sectoral partnerships to drive innovation."

The Community Foundation for Northern Ireland is an independent, grant making trust, inspiring generosity, and achieving impact across Northern Ireland.

Responding to need, the Foundation has awarded over £100m in 40 years to groups and organisations across NI making contributions to education, health, housing, the arts, social justice, employment, peace and reconciliation. Rooted in a tradition of community connections, risk taking and innovation the Foundations vision is of a fair and equitable society for everyone.