Dr Stella Peace

Dr Stella Peace is an experienced Chair, Non-Executive Director and scientist with a career spanning global industry, manufacturing, innovation and government. She is Chair of Innovate UK Business Connect and a Board member of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult and AberInnovation.

Stella was most recently Managing Director of Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), where she led major national investments across manufacturing, life sciences, health technologies and food systems. Previously, Stella spent more than 20 years in senior R&D roles at Unilever, followed by Chief R&D and Quality Officer at Nomad Foods. She led global innovation and translated science and technology into commercial impact.

Stella brings extensive experience across industry, government and the research base, with a particular focus on leadership, talent, culture and impact. She is passionate about creating the conditions for people and organisations to thrive.

Stella holds a PhD in Polymer Chemistry from Durham University.