Skinner joined the Innovation Cluster’s Board of Directors in 2012. In 2016, he became the CEO of the Innovation Cluster and under his leadership the organization expanded to its 10,000 square foot location in downtown Peterborough, which included incubation and accelerator services. Gillis joined the Innovation Cluster in 2017, introduced an H2O Makerspace to the Organization which gave clients access to over 30 pieces of water testing equipment.
Over the last five years they are said to have led the Innovation Cluster to create an economic impact of $54 million, create nearly 900 jobs, and support more than 300 companies to launch, grow and scale.
“The Innovation Cluster has always been a labour of love and our passion for supporting business growth and entrepreneurship in our community will not end with our departure. We look forward to staying connected with the people who have made our time at the Innovation Cluster unforgettable. We are excited to see the introduction of fresh ideas to the Organization under new leadership,” say Skinner and Gillis in a statement.
The two entrepreneurs will reportedly continue working together after their departure from the Innovation Cluster, and will be announcing the launch of their new business venture in the new year.
The Innovation Cluster board of directors are currently seeking applicants for a new CEO.
