Zoe McCARTHY

Innovation-focused leader with over 15 years' experience delivering cross-disciplinary programmes across education, design, technology and industry. Proven track record of driving innovation through emerging technologies including AI, 3D design, AR and VR, while developing strategic partnerships that generate measurable organisational, commercial and community impact. Experienced in leading complex projects, managing diverse stakeholder groups, securing funding, implementing sustainable initiatives and translating innovative ideas into practical outcomes.

Skilled at bringing together industry, public sector and community partners to deliver programmes that create long-term value and positive change.

Recognised Senior

Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA) with expertise in innovation strategy, stakeholder engagement, programme management, business development and organisational transformation.

Innovation & Programme Lead / Senior Lecturer - SOUTHAMPTON SOLENT UNIVERSITY

(2016-09)

Lead multidisciplinary projects that connect education, industry, local authorities and community organisations, driving innovation, sustainability and technology adoption across creative disciplines.

• Led the integration of emerging technologies including AI, AR, VR and 3D design into teaching, research and industry-facing projects.
• Managed cross-functional teams across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, coordinating project delivery and stakeholder engagement.
• Developed and maintained strategic partnerships with industry, local authorities and external organisations to deliver innovation-focused initiatives.
• Secured external funding and delivered revenue-generating projects aligned with organisational objectives.
• Established live industry projects and employability initiatives that enhanced graduate outcomes and strengthened external partnerships.
• Founded and developed sustainability-focused initiatives connecting students, businesses and communities through collaborative projects.
• Coordinated multidisciplinary teams of postgraduate supervisors and project stakeholders.
• Represented the university at recruitment, partnership and business engagement events regionally and nationally.
• Delivered projects contributing to sector-leading performance in student retention, progression and graduate outcomes.
• Managed community engagement programmes that delivered measurable social impact and strengthened organisational reputation.

Founder & Creative Innovation Consultant - ZOE BARKER DESIGN

(2010-03)

Established and manage an independent design and innovation consultancy delivering creative, branding, communication and product development projects for national and international clients.

• Managed end-to-end delivery of client projects from concept development through implementation and evaluation.
• Led stakeholder engagement across commercial, creative and public-sector organisations.
• Identified emerging trends and translated market insights into commercially viable design solutions.
• Developed strategic brand, communication and product concepts tailored to client objectives.
• Managed business operations including finance, marketing, sales and client relationship management.
• Delivered projects involving print production, digital communications and visual identity systems.
• Implemented new technologies and creative processes to improve efficiency and service delivery.

Graphic Designer - MUDPIE

(2009-08 - 2010-02)

• Developed trend-led product and print concepts for major high-street retailers.
• Produced trend forecasting research and market intelligence to inform product development.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams across design and production functions.
• Delivered commercially focused design solutions across womenswear, menswear and childrenswear categories.

Designer & Digital Manager - THE GLOW STUDIO

(2001-12 - 2009-07)

• Managed branding, marketing and digital transformation projects for SME and STEM-sector clients.
• Led website development, digital communications and brand identity programmes.
• Coordinated client relationships and project delivery from briefing through implementation.
• Delivered strategic marketing initiatives that enhanced client visibility and engagement.

Senior Fellow - Higher Education Academy - Higher Education Academy (2025)

Postgraduate Certificate - Higher Education - Southampton Solent University (2021)

MA - Fashion Design - Winchester School of Art (2010)

BA (Hons) - Textile Design - Chelsea College of Art & Design (UAL) (2008)