Innovate UK Interim Executive Chair
Dr Stella Peace is the Interim Executive Chair at Innovate UK, the UK’s innovation agency.
Her distinguished career spans academia, industry and technology, and is underpinned by her passion for harnessing the power of science and innovation to drive transformation.
Stella joined Innovate UK from Nomad Foods, where she was Chief R&D and Quality Officer, and successfully delivered a step change in innovation performance.
She brings extensive international leadership experience, having spent 20 years at Unilever, leading research and development (R&D) teams to deliver global innovations for iconic household brands.
During this time she worked across multiple sectors, lived in both Japan and France, and was site leader for one of Unilever strategic R&D sites.
Stella is a purpose driven leader, her leadership style is authentic, collaborative, and inclusive. She believes in the benefits of cross-disciplinary working, creating environments where both innovation and individuals flourish.
In addition to her interim role, Stella retains her position as Executive Director of Healthy Living and Agriculture focused on unlocking innovations that make life better, driving growth and impact.
Stella’s academic training was in Chemistry, including a PhD in Polymer Chemistry from the Interdisciplinary Research Centre at Durham University, this experience has informed her success in leading diverse teams and driving an outcome focus.
With her wealth of experience and forward-thinking vision, Dr Peace is poised to drive Innovate UK’s strategy, fostering a culture of innovation that delivers real-world impact for businesses, society, and the economy.
Last updated: 11 October 2024