Beth Winstone: My Career in Science and Technology BSA

Could you describe what your job is?

I support Bidwells’ Business Space Agency team on the research & administrative side to help our clients find office and laboratory space. I also conduct market research, tracking science and tech companies in Oxford through tools like LinkedIn, Twitter and Google Alerts. Monitoring the growth of startups and spinouts allows Bidwells to connect companies to appropriate spaces. My research also identifies emerging sectors, up-and-coming spinouts and funding sources.

What do you love about your job? Why do you enjoy working in this industry?

I love working collaboratively in a supportive team environment where I feel valued. I'm fascinated learning about innovations that improve lives, like medical advancements. Tracking companies over time, I've built knowledge and grown more passionate about the sector. I find it immensely rewarding helping enable positive change, and ultimately accelerate innovation in the area.

Why did you pursue/fall into a ‘Science Aligned’ Career?

My interest developed working around science firms in previous roles. I studied art, so my path to real estate was indirect. But through one opportunity leading to another, I ended up at Bidwells working in the science and technology space - a field that never ceases to amaze and impress me.  

Could you tell us about what an exciting day in your role would look like?

Visiting the Kadans’ Canary Wharf Group development was thrilling, particularly seeing their vision for a science hub firsthand. Understanding how other regions approach attracting science firms helps our team to better assist companies looking for space in Oxford.

What three words would you use to describe what you do?

Collaborative, rewarding and enlightening.

What are the most interesting projects you've been involved in?

I loved supporting the North Bailey House redevelopment in the centre of Oxford. The project transformed unused space into an exceptional new office building with a beautiful roof terrace and therefore was an exciting building to represent. Being part of Oxford’s development is very rewarding since it’s not often that we get to work on projects in the city centre, so it has really stood out.

I’ve lived in Oxford for about 25 years now and I’ve loved watching it grow into the life sciences’ clusters it’s known for today. I enjoy tracking the evolution of science and technology companies and trying to match them to the available space that best suits their needs.