Peter Barrowclough

Peter Barrowclough (CRSNZ) is an experienced technology and commercialisation leader with a strong track record in New Zealand’s science, agritech, and innovation ecosystem. He was CEO of Lincoln Agritech for 14 years where he oversaw the commercialisation of numerous technologies. He has long term links to the Canterbury Tech scene having been the Canterbury based National Business Incubator Manager for Industry NZ founding the incubator programme in the early 2000’s. He also spent 9 years on the board of the Canterbury Development Corporation which funded early stage start ups. Based in Christchurch, he is committed to strengthening Canterbury’s tech sector and supporting emerging innovators.

What specific expertise can you bring to Canterbury Tech Board?

• Governance – 20 years of experience in a range of companies, many of them technology companies.
• Commercialisation – experience with multiple spin outs, licensing deals and IP sales.
• Entrepreneurial – started my own company at age 26 to grow and export wasabi to Japan.
• Network – extensive network in NZ, particularly in research and Agritech.
• Experience – I am an experienced CEO with significant life and people experience. I am a NZ Hi Tech Awards judge.

What do you see are the top three opportunities to advancing the tech sector in Canterbury?

1. Accelerate commercialisation: Build on Canterbury’s strong tertiary and research base, and manufacturing heritage to continue to accelerate commercialisation and linkages between research and companies.
2. Promote Canterbury: Take advantage of Christchurch’s rebuild and current favourable status, and work alongside ChristchurchNZ to promote Canterbury as a great place to start or relocate your tech company to.
3. Learn from history: Look into our tech history. Promote our Iconic tech companies (like Tait Communications) and look back at some of our lesser known companies and find out where they are today. What worked and what didn’t work for them when they were domiciled in Canterbury.

What would be your first point of action/suggestion on the Board if you were to be elected?

My initial action would be to take time to listen, observe and understand the board’s existing strategy and the operational work already underway. Only once I have that context would I look to contribute ideas or support in areas where my background can best complement the strengths already present.