Simon Denegri OBE

I joined the Academy in October 2019. Dealing with a global pandemic was not at the top of my list of challenges I expected to deal with in my first year as Executive Director. But I am deeply proud of how the team has responded and the contribution the Academy has made to science and public understanding. Prior to joining the Academy I was the NIHR National Director for Patients, Carers and the Public and Chair of INVOLVE and, before that, Chief Executive at the Association of Medical Research Charities (AMRC). I am passionate about public involvement, engagement and participation in research. I have many interests outside work but an ideal weekend for me would involve time with my wife, Nicky, and my three sons, a cinema trip, a visit to a historic site or museum, rocking out on my guitar and watching Crystal Palace FC win at home. It rarely happens.