Robert Capleton

Industrial Liaison Manager (Low Carbon Eco-Innovatory)

Tell me a little about your position and what you do on a day-to-day basis

I am finding companies across the Liverpool City Region who see carbon reduction as a strategic objective in their planning – either as a business opportunity, or to enhance their green credentials; that will then positively impact on social, economic or environmental outcomes in the region that are directly linked to CO2 emissions. If the business is relevant and the project unique – they will then have access to the Low Carbon Eco-Innovatory who will use the UoL academic resources and a Graduate PhD to support their objectives. 

What is the best thing about working at the University of Liverpool?

The induction has been really interesting and from the support I have had so far from a number of departments, my colleagues have been extremely supportive and patient with my naïve questions. I do feel the opportunity to access the wealth of knowledge and resource is amazing and I’m really looking forward to getting involved with a number of departments who I will be liaising with as the project progresses. 

Tell me a bit more about your colleagues

I won’t name names, but it looks like we have a good synergy in that we love music and a good beer (but not necessarily in that order). Oh, and a love of baking (particularly sour dough bread) – but that is not as important as music and beer. 

What is your proudest accomplishment so far? 

In career terms, my appointment as UK Partnership Manager for the International Business Festival held in Liverpool between 2014-2018 was a high point. Working with Government, Core Cities and business support organisations across the UK to bring business owners to Liverpool and seeing the delegate attendees grow was very satisfying – and hard work! 

On a personal level, three children, married 32 years and first grandchild on the way is an accomplishment in itself and I shall continue to bore them all with my tail of climbing Kilimanjaro (that I am very proud of). 

What drives you in your role? 

I have worked in business support for 13 years, but have a sales and marketing background and believe that you have to be passionate about your product or service and believe in it. I have become very much more aware of the damage we are doing to our planet in recent years and see the Low Carbon Eco-Innovatory as a fantastic solution that can help in its small way. Ultimately; to see businesses succeed and grow after an intervention is extremely satisfying and underpins the relationship and trust that I try to build with my clients. 

What would you say to anyone considering a career move to the University of Liverpool? 

It is a unique place to work and very different to public and private sector – but your contribution feels valued.