The Cluster Effect: How Bicester Motion is Driving the Future of Mobility
Description
What if the key to the future of global mobility was found not in isolation, but in a carefully curated community?
Host Susannah de Jager sits down with Dan Geoghegan, CEO of Bicester Motion, the visionary behind the world's largest automotive and future mobility cluster. Dan details his systematic, values-driven approach to turning a derelict RAF bomber station into a thriving, 444-acre ecosystem of 54 businesses—ranging from historic vehicle restorers to pioneers in net-zero fuels.
They discuss the critical benefits of clustering, where like minds and complementary businesses achieve greater efficiency and critical mass. Dan shares the vital lesson that focusing on community, inclusivity, and long-term partnership with tenants actually leads to better business results and high occupancy.
Tune in to hear how his bold vision and "fly the plane as you build it" entrepreneurship has created an economic powerhouse in the Oxford-Cambridge corridor, actively shaping the path to net-zero.
- (00:00 ) - Welcome to Oxford+
- (01:58 ) - The Birth of Bicester Motion
- (04:15 ) - From Concept to Reality: Building the Cluster
- (07:40 ) - Challenges and Naysayers
- (09:43 ) - The Importance of Community and Collaboration
- (13:36 ) - Sustaining Growth and Innovation
- (22:58 ) - The Role of Shareholders and Long-term Vision
- (25:25 ) - Navigating Geopolitical and Economic Changes
- (28:01 ) - Showcasing Bicester Motion's Companies
- (37:10 ) - Sustainability and Future Plans
Dan Geoghegan: The Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Bicester Motion, the world-leading automotive and future mobility cluster located on a former RAF Bomber Station. Dan’s vision combines a passion for historic motoring with expertise in private investment and corporate finance to create a dynamic centre for innovation, experience, and heritage. He was honoured with the Outstanding UK Leader Award at the 2022 Autocar Awards for his leadership in "redefining the automotive experience for the modern era through real estate." Recently, he has driven the site's expansion, including the completion of the new £26.8 million headquarters for Mercedes-Benz-owned YASA.
Susannah de Jager: Susannah is a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience in UK asset management. She has worked closely with industry experts, entrepreneurs, and government officials to shape the conversation around domestic scale-up capital.
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Oxford+ is hosted by Susannah de Jager and supported by Mishcon de Reya and Oxford North.
Produced and edited by Story Ninety-Four in Oxford.