In2scienceUK is pleased to announce the appointment of a new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and a new Chair of Trustees, marking an exciting next chapter for the organisation as it continues to support young people from low socioeconomic backgrounds to pursue futures in STEM.
Appointment of our new CEO
We are delighted to announce that Rachel Hillman will be joining In2scienceUK as our next CEO from the 26th January 2026.
Rachel is joining us from her previous role as Director of Impact and Innovation at the Film and TV Charity, in addition to 15 years of experience at the Wellcome Trust in public engagement. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices and leading on tackling barriers to inclusion.
As CEO, Rachel will lead In2scienceUK for its next phase of development and build on the charity’s strong track record of impact.
“In2scienceUK plays a vital role in opening up STEM opportunities to young people from underserved backgrounds, and its impact is rooted in the quality of its programmes, its partnerships and the voices of the young people it serves. I am really excited to be stepping into the role of CEO at In2scienceUK and to work with the team, Board and partners to build on this strong foundation, reach more young people, and help drive lasting change across the STEM sector.”
Rachel Hillman, incoming CEO of In2scienceUK
New Chair of Trustees appointed
This appointment comes shortly after Professor Vicky Pope, who previously served as our Vice Chair, stepped into the role of Chair of Trustees last month.
Having served on the Board since 2020, Vicky brings extensive knowledge of In2scienceUK’s values and strategic priorities. She also brings decades of experience as a senior leader at the Met Office, as well as non-executive leadership in both the government and non-profit sectors.
“I am delighted to be taking over as Chair of In2scienceUK at this exciting time in the charity’s development. Improving access to STEM opportunities is vital for individuals and for the country, so I am looking forward to leading the Trustees as we work with Rachel and the wider team.”
Professor Vicky Pope, In2scienceUK Chair of Trustees
In addition, Trustee Professor Clare Ray, Honorary Professor of Widening Participation in Biomedical Education at the University of Birmingham, has been appointed as Vice Chair.
In response to these appointments, Stephen Hancock, current CEO of In2scienceUK, said:
“Leading In2scienceUK has been an honour, and I am proud of the charity’s ongoing commitment to opening up STEM opportunities for young people who are too often excluded. I am confident that, in their capable hands, Rachel and Vicky will continue to drive this mission forward and grow the charity’s impact.”
The Board of Trustees would like to congratulate Rachel Hillman, Professor Vicky Pope and Professor Clare Ray on their new roles and express their gratitude to outgoing leaders Stephen Hancock and Jonathan Flowers for their dedication to the charity’s mission.