Iain Bitran is the long-standing Executive Director of ISPIM, the global innovation management society he has led since 2003. A University of Sheffield alumnus with a marketing diploma, he has over 35 years of experience. Colleagues describe him as an exceptional professional, a high-energy relationship builder, and a transformative leader.
Beyond his professional focus, Iain is a passionate advocate for the city of Manchester, serving as a conference ambassador. He is also noted for his ability to converse deeply on a diverse range of subjects, including the German language and the history of beer, reflecting his wide-ranging intellectual curiosity.
Interestingly, a colleague noted he can talk for a full night on topics as varied as scientific innovation and the history of beer.
Iain Bitran
Judge
DISC Type :
Dc
Project Partner at Co-Forest
Manchester Area, United Kingdom
Overview
Personality Overview
Features Driven
Generally Skeptic
Quality Focused
They like to be in a position where they can control the conversation and terms. They like to act fast and expect others to do the same. More than the product, they care about the effectiveness of the product.
Topics They Care About
Innovation Management
As the head of ISPIM for over two decades, his entire career is dedicated to connecting global professionals and advancing the practice of innovation management.
Building Communities
He has grown the ISPIM community significantly by organizing international conferences and developing strong networks among researchers, industry leaders, and public sector professionals.
Manchester Advocacy
As an 'Mbassador' for the Manchester Convention Bureau, he actively promotes the city as a prime destination for major international conferences.
Media Appearances
Iain has no verified media appearances
Work History
1-2026
Project Partner at Co-Forest
10-2025
Mbassador at Manchester Convention Bureau
6-2025
Project Partner at Climate Engine
2-2025
Conference Ambassador of Tallinn at City of Tallinn
11-2024
International Congress Ambassador at Slovenia Meetings
6-2023
Project Partner at USE IPM project
4-2021 - 2-2025
Member of the Association Advisory Council at ICCA
2-2018
Fukuoka City MICE Ambassador at Fukuoka Convention & Visitors Bureau
7-2017
Managing Director at Enterprizer Events
7-2016 - 12-2017
Member of Judging Panel at The European Association Awards
10-2015 - 10-2018
Member of Practitioners Committee at University Industry Innovation Network (UIIN)
9-2013
Journal Advisory Board at Journal of Innovation Management
6-2008
Executive Director at ISPIM - The International Society for Professional Innovation Management
6-2008
Associate Editor at International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management
1-2007 - 7-2013
Co-Owner at ConferenceSubmissions.com
4-2006 - 3-2010
Board Member - United Kingdom at TII - Technology Innovation International
6-2003 - 6-2008
President at ISPIM - The International Society for Professional Innovation Management
6-2001
Board Member at ISPIM - The International Society for Professional Innovation Management
10-1993 - 7-2017
Co-Founder & Chief Technology Officer at Enterprizer Technologies Limited
4-1990 - 9-1993
Managing Director at Intersell Marketing Limited
10-1988 - 4-1990
Sales Executive at Duttons Print Group
10-1987 - 9-1988
Graduate Management Trainee at The British Linen Bank
Education
1991 - 1992
Postgraduate Diploma in Marketing from CIM | The Chartered Institute of Marketing
1983 - 1987
BA (Honours) from The University of Sheffield
More Information
Social Presence :
Prographics :
Exp : 38
Location : Manchester Area, United Kingdom
Job Level : Mid-senior
Designation : Project Partner at Co-Forest
