December 1, 2025, Cambridge, MA—CIC Founder and current CEO, Tim Rowe announced on LinkedIn today a change in leadership at the company: “I’m excited to announce that, effective today, CIC’s here-to-for President Denyse Medlenka will take on the role of CEO, and that I will take on the new role of Executive Chairman.” He added, “As President, Denyse has led the company’s day to day operations with exceptional skill.”
Denyse joined CIC as Chief People Officer in December 2022, building a world-class HR function, and was promoted to Chief Operating officer in February 2024, where she managed CIC’s day-to-day operations. In September 2024, Denyse was promoted to be CIC’s President.
Rowe added: “During her tenure as President, Denyse provided extraordinary leadership and has been instrumental in shaping CIC’s strategy, structure, culture, and financial performance. As CEO, she will position us for our next chapter of growth and impact.”
Regarding his new role, Rowe wrote: “It has been my intention for some years to evolve my role to focus more exclusively on growth opportunities for CIC. With great achievements for the business this year, now is the right time to make this change.”
Together with this change, CIC’s structure going forward will be around two business units: “CIC Campuses” and “CIC Catalyst.”
Michelle Ottey will assume the new title of President, CIC Campuses & Labs. Under her leadership, the CIC Campuses business will continue its mission of building the world’s best places for innovators to bring their visions to life.
Victor Mulas will assume the new title of President, CIC Catalyst, while retaining his current title as Chief Innovation Officer. Under his leadership, CIC Catalyst will bring together several previously independent parts of the organization—including its Japan-based CIC Institute team, US-based Captains of Innovation team, Japan Desk team, the CIC Expansion team, and the CIC Design & Construction team. CIC Catalyst will support entrepreneurs, corporations, universities, government, investors, and other institutions, as well as property owners around the world in activating and strengthening their innovation ecosystems. Part of their work leads to the creation of new CIC campuses.
CIC has always been about people — innovators, entrepreneurs, and the staff that supports them. This evolution keeps the business focused on that mission and ensures CIC is ready for the next stage of growth.
About CIC
CIC builds and operates a global network of innovation campuses where startups, scale-ups, corporations and public entities connect, work, and grow. Founded in 1999, CIC manages 1.5 million square feet of innovation-focused workspace, laboratories, and event space across North America, Europe and Asia. Additionally, CIC develops bespoke programming, builds and enables industry clusters, and provides world-class district consulting—all focused on advancing innovation.Learn more about CIC’s innovation campuses featuring workspace & labs, programming, and events at CIC.com. Follow along on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
