Cory drives organization-wide alignment and effectiveness by working in close partnership with the CEO and through his leadership of executive governance functions. He leads a variety of strategic initiatives, including Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

Cory previously led ecosystem development work at MaRS, strengthening its role as a globally recognized generator of positive socioeconomic impact. Additionally, he led relations for MaRS with top national and global jurisdictions of innovation. Cory led policy and public affairs at MaRS, where he built relationships with government stakeholders, and aligned the organization and its network to influence innovation-friendly government policies. Cory’s continued service at MaRS is an expression of his passion for the life sciences sector, and the implementation of strong innovation policy across Canada. He is co-founder of Canada’s Global Innovation Cluster for Advanced Manufacturing and of the Innovation Economy Council.

Prior to MaRS, Cory served as chief of staff to the Government of Ontario’s minister of research, innovation and science. His other previous roles in the government included chief of staff to the minister of training, colleges and universities, as well as senior policy advisor to the ministers of economic development and innovation. Cory completed his PhD in biochemistry at SickKids and the University of Toronto with a focus on cystic fibrosis. He is also a chartered financial analyst (CFA) charter holder, and possesses an BSc in chemistry. Cory is an avid cyclist, supporting and riding in the Friends for Life Bike Rally.

Martin Bliemel is the Director of Research at TD School at UTS. TD means transdisciplinary, which is the mixing of multiple academic and industry knowledges. TD School is a new organizational unit at UTS that is like a faculty, but more like the glue between faculties to drive innovative initiatives that address complex societal challenges.

Martin is an award-winning educator and researcher. His research was central to the design the federal Incubator Support Programme which supported over 60 incubators and over 100 entrepreneurs-in-residence, nationally.

Martin has also worked with state and local governments on innovation policy projects, including how to measure innovation in precincts and innovation districts.

Louise is the Associate Director NSW Innovation and Productivity Council. She runs the Council’s research program around innovation and entrepreneurship. Louise has over 10 years experience in both the private and public sector, predominantly in policy analysis, program development, implementation, program delivery and management, and stakeholder engagement within and around the innovation ecosystem.