National Robotarium boss quits in funding row – Daily Business

Stewart Miller: lost opportunity (Robotarium pic: DB Media Services)

National Robotarium boss Stewart Miller has shaken the academic and tech community by resigning in a row over funding.

Mr Miller quit as chief executive after accusing Heriot-Watt university, where the facility is based, of a “significant own goal” by failing to apply for £7.5 million of Innovate UK funding.

In a social media post he said the university had undermined his efforts over the last five years “to establish and grow the National Robotarium to the position of respect and prominence it now has in the UK and in Europe.”

Mr Miller, who was previously chief technology officer at Innovate UK, and held senior roles at major firms such as Leonardo and BAE Systems, wrote: “I HAVE RESIGNED as CEO of The National Robotarium.

“This is as a direct consequence of Heriot Watt University senior leadership turning their back on an opportunity to bring £7.5m of investment into the Scottish robotic economy.”

He added: “I had been instrumental in gaining support from UK government for the robotics hub initiative and had positioned The National Robotarium to lead an extremely strong bid on behalf of Scotland, with support from Scottish stakeholders and industry partners.

“For this to be discarded at the eleventh hour was the final straw in a sequence of events over the past six months that have made it clear that HWU no longer respected or valued my contribution as CEO of The National Robotarium.”

A Heriot-Watt University spokesperson said: “We can confirm that Stewart Miller has submitted his resignation as chief executive officer of the National Robotarium.

“The University recognises his contribution over the past five years in helping to establish and develop the centre. However, we do not agree with the characterisation of recent events.

“Decisions regarding funding applications and strategic priorities are taken following careful consideration to ensure alignment with requirements and compliance with funding regulations. As this and related matters are subject to an internal review, it would not be appropriate to comment further at this stage.

“Heriot-Watt University remains fully committed to the continued success of the National Robotarium, and to advancing robotics innovation, industry collaboration and skills development across Scotland and the wider UK. We will continue to work closely with partners to build on the strong foundations already in place.”

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