Dr Aylett was appointed as Associate Executive Dean of Enterprise and Entrepreneurship (AED E&E) in 2025 in the School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences - Heriot-Watt University. The AED E&E is a key leadership role within the School, reporting directly to the Executive Dean. The role is responsible for developing and implementing the School’s Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Strategy and ensuring alignment with the University’s broader Research and Enterprise Strategy.
The AED E&E primary focus is on fostering business and enterprise activities, including research commercialization, industry collaboration, consultancy, and professional development, all aimed at driving income growth and enhancing the University’s academic reputation on a global scale. The role holder is responsible for operational oversight, external engagement, and continuous enhancement of enterprise activities. This includes overseeing patents, spin-outs, and industry partnerships, facilitating enterprise training for staff and students, and promoting innovation across disciplines. They also act as the primary liaison with external organizations, representing the School on national and international platforms to strengthen industry collaboration and influence enterprise policy. Ultimately, the Associate Executive Dean (Enterprise and Entrepreneurship) plays a crucial role in advancing the School’s enterprise agenda, supporting economic and research impact, and driving entrepreneurial engagement across the University and beyond.