New director will lead on strengthening UK's global position in semiconductors
The UK Semiconductor Centre (UKSC) has appointed Brian Robertson as Director of International Partnerships to lead on strengthening the UK’s global position in semiconductors and deepening connections between the UK ecosystem and international partners.
Brian will work on building mutually beneficial relationships with international government agencies and businesses, with a focus on attracting more foreign direct investment into the country.
He joins the UKSC at a critical time for the global semiconductor sector, which is expected to double over the next decade, fuelled by demand for AI, quantum, electrification and advanced computing.
Brian will be tasked with identifying priority international opportunities, building long-term relationships, and helping the UK navigate the global semiconductor landscape, including evolving supply chains, critical materials and geopolitical dynamics.
Brian has over 25 years of international experience across telecommunications, technology and semiconductor ecosystems, including roles at Arm, Broadcom, Texas Instruments and NXP.
He has led global teams in AI, quantum, mobile and compute, and joins the UKSC from the GSMA where he was Head of Industry Strategy.
He has worked extensively with operators, hyperscalers and silicon vendors to build strategic partnerships, shape industry initiatives and drive growth through complex, multi-party collaboration.
“I’m very pleased to be joining the UK Semiconductor Centre at a pivotal moment for the sector. The UK has a strong and increasingly respected semiconductor ecosystem, with a clear opportunity to scale, attract inward investment, and strengthen its position in a highly competitive global landscape.
“International partnerships will play a critical role in unlocking that potential. I look forward to working with colleagues and partners across industry, government and academia to build strategic relationships that drive collaboration, support innovation, and enable sustainable long-term growth.”
Brian Robertson, Director of International Partnerships
The UKSC was established to connect, convene and promote the UK’s semiconductor industry on the global stage, ensuring innovation translates into scaled commercial success and economic growth.
The organisation aligns support around key technologies where the UK has genuine competitive advantage, including photonics, compound semiconductors, quantum technologies and next-generation computing architectures.
“We’re delighted to welcome Brian to the UKSC at a pivotal moment for the global semiconductor industry, which is rapidly evolving and creating enormous opportunities for the UK.
“Brian’s wealth of experience across the global semiconductor ecosystem will ensure that the UK is primed to capitalise on these opportunities, driving long term partnerships, investment and growth."
Raj Gawera, Chief Operating Officer
