Heidi brings a wealth of experience and a strategic understanding of the UK’s innovation landscape. With a background in the public sector and a master’s degree in medieval studies from Royal Holloway, University of London, she has spent the past two decades shaping policies and investments that focus on driving industrial transformation.

Early in her career, Heidi worked across critical government functions including the National Blood Service, the Insolvency Service, and the former Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS). There, she helped lead the development of offshore renewable energy supply chains – playing a key role in enabling the landmark Siemens investment in Hull, a cornerstone of the UK’s clean growth ambitions.

Since joining Innovate UK in 2014, Heidi has focused on building the UK’s long-term innovation capacity. She has led the development and governance of the Catapult Network – nine world-class technology and innovation centres spanning sectors from advanced manufacturing to cell and gene therapy. She has worked hand-in-hand with Catapults to secure major public investment, unlock new infrastructure, and strengthen regional innovation ecosystems.

Now as Deputy Director for Innovation Infrastructure, Heidi is focused on driving a more joined-up, strategic approach to R&D infrastructure – ensuring the UK’s innovation system is equipped to tackle global challenges, foster industrial growth, and stay at the cutting edge of technology.

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