Meet the Team
Get to know the Innovate Stockport team and business support experts.
John Booth
Centre Manager
Stockport Business & Innovation Centre
John has worked both in small family run business’s and huge organisations, such as Royal Mail and the NHS. He has many years’ management experience, heading up multi-site operations and large modern contact centres. John really enjoys working with people and enjoys the challenge being part of something special here in Stockport.
Rob Kates
Centre Manager
Merseyway Innovation Centre
Merchants House
Rob comes from a background in theatre production and event work. His knack for getting things done and finding solutions fits perfectly with his friendly and sociable personality. He’s all about building a strong community and forming valuable relationships at the centre. He’s also really keen on seeing businesses support each other and sharing success stories that come from the power of relationships. Outside of work, Rob will be playing football, DIYing, or spending time with his family.
Liz Wood
Assistant Centre Manager
Stockport Business & Innovation Centre
Bernard Page
Innovation Director
Stockport Business & Innovation Centre
Naomi Timperley
Innovation Director
Merseyway Innovation Centre
Naomi has been a mentor for 12 years and has mentored hundreds of businesses. She is a highly experienced growth and innovation consultant and has extensive experience working with start-ups and growth businesses – particularly in the tech, digital and creative sectors.
Co-Founder of Tech North Advocates and We Are GSI Ltd., Naomi is proud to be in the top 50 Computer Weekly Most Influential Women in UK IT 2018, 2019, 2020; 3rd most influential woman in 2021; and 4th in 2022. She is an Honorary Industry Fellow at the University of Salford Business School and sits on the board of the Industry Advisory Board. Naomi also sits on the board of charity Digital Inc, VocalEyes CIC, and Stockport-based Social Enterprise PIE.
Lynn Forbes
Customer Experience Assistant
Stockport Business & Innovation Centre
Jillian McNeil
Customer Experience Assistant
Stockport Business & Innovation Centre
Chloe O'Connor
Customer Experience Assistant
Merseyway Innovation Centre
Chloe joined Merseyway Innovation Centre in June 2025, bringing with her a strong background in hospitality management and a passion for customer service. In 2023, she took the leap into entrepreneurship by launching her own business, creating and selling natural laundry products. At Merseyway, Chloe enjoys the vibrant, community-driven atmosphere and takes pride in making everyone feel welcome. She loves getting to know the diverse range of customers and being part of a space that encourages creativity and collaboration. Outside of work, Chloe enjoys travelling across Europe, discovering new music, and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen.
- 0161 532 2625
Janet Adnams
Customer Experience Assistant
Merseyway Innovation Centre
Janet has a background in the conferences and events industry, with a wealth of experience spanning many years. Throughout her career, she has successfully led the planning and delivery of high-profile national and international conferences. She is known for her exceptional organisational skills, reliability and professionalism.
In March 2024, Janet began working at Merseyway Innovation Centre in a temporary capacity and quickly became a valued member of the team, securing a permanent position by June 2024. Her warm and approachable personality makes her a natural fit for the reception role, where she thrives on engaging with visitors and creating a welcoming environment.
Outside of her professional life, Janet enjoys the theatre, walking, getting lost in a good book, and sharing great food and conversation with friends.
- 0161 532 2625