Andrew S. Duffell, MBA

Rebranded and developed Research Park to gain high visibility; widely regarded as South Florida’s laboratory for new entrepreneurial ideas and technologies and an asset in the region’s economic development efforts. Under leadership, generated $535MM/year impact and grown budget and operations >64%. Holds full P&L responsibility for the Research Park and oversees 350,000 sq. ft. of lab and office research assets. Worked hand-in-hand with the University to create the Florida Atlantic TechRunway. This South Florida public-private partnership serves as a hub to accelerate technology development and incubate startup companies. Since its inception in 2014, it has launched 52 companies, which collectively have raised more than $46MM in capital, created nearly 300 jobs, and generated more than $23MM in sales revenue. Developed Global Ventures to support the development and growth of those companies that successfully graduate from TechRunway and those of a similar size and stage of development. Global Ventures has been recognized as an innovative resource for 2nd stage companies to scale up by the International Economic Development Council, the International Business Innovation Association, and the Florida Business Incubator Association.

Strategic advise on growth and expansion initiatives for Biked, leveraging market insights and extensive relationships. Collaboration with local governments and university partners to drive innovation in the cycling industry.

Advisory to BBVA management

Recruited to design and implement the economic development strategy for Palm Beach County and help position it as a contender for life science companies to flourish in South Florida. Recruited & retained companies that have had a fiscal impact of $50MM+ and that invested $307MM in capital, including the Max Planck Society from Germany ($188MM in incentives). Ensured that almost $3B of economic activity resulted from the recruitment and retention of target industry companies. Successfully managed relationships with companies throughout the EU, Canada, and the US and across the IT, life sciences, and aviation industries, building a solid network of contacts for referral sources.

Raised awareness of the region as a business location and encouraged businesses to expand to the North of England, contributing to the knowledge economy. Gathered intelligence on relevant industries in the USA and UK, followed by the design of a marketing strategy to target the appropriate companies. Individualized market-entry strategies to minimize risk and maximize returns. Managed projects from concept to finalization and beyond, while also retaining existing investors through a customized aftercare program. Cultivated relationships with economic development agencies, local businesses, business associations, and UK Trade & Investment.

Dedicated courses in management, economics, international relations, policy-making, and Spanish language and culture. The third year was spent in Spain working in industry.