Meet the Leadership: Hilary Evans-Newton, Chief Executive
Since joining in 2013, Hilary Evans-Newton has been a pivotal force in the growth and direction of Alzheimer's Research UK. Initially joining the leadership team, she was appointed Chief Executive a year later and has since driven the organisation's ambition to fund groundbreaking research. Under her leadership, the charity has seen significant increases in income and public engagement, helping to challenge perceptions of dementia and push for greater investment in research. Her role involves overseeing all aspects of the charity's operations, from fundraising and marketing to its research strategy.
Career Highlights and Background
Hilary Evans-Newton's career is marked by a deep commitment to the charity sector. Prior to her time at Alzheimer's Research UK, she worked for Age UK, where she led influential campaigning work. This background has given her a comprehensive understanding of the issues facing older people and has informed her work in dementia advocacy. Her achievements at Alzheimer's Research UK include pioneering new ways to support research and establishing strategic initiatives, such as the Dementia Drug Discovery Institutes. In 2023, she was also appointed to co-chair the UK government's national dementia initiative, the Dame Barbara Windsor Dementia Goals Programme, further solidifying her influence in the field.
Comparison Table: Key Figures at Alzheimer's Research UK
To better understand the leadership team, here is a comparison of some key figures at Alzheimer's Research UK, highlighting their roles and areas of expertise.
| Leadership Position | Name | Primary Responsibilities | Sector Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chief Executive | Hilary Evans-Newton | Overall strategic direction, leadership, and external representation. | Extensive experience in the charity sector, including Age UK. |
| Executive Director of Research & Partnerships | Susan Kohlhaas | Oversees the charity's research programme and strategic initiatives. | PhD in cancer biology and senior roles at MS Society and National Cancer Research Institute. |
| Deputy Chief Executive | Emma Whitcombe | Deputies for the Chief Executive, oversees fundraising and marketing. | Over 20 years in leadership roles across health, disability, and international development charities. |
| Executive Director of Finance & Operations | Philip Dunn | Responsible for finance, HR, IT, and governance. | Strong background in finance and commercial roles across various industries. |
| Director of Policy, Communications & Involvement | Samantha Benham-Hermetz | Leads on political and media engagement, campaigns, and patient involvement. | 15+ years experience in campaigns, including Alzheimer's Society and Breast Cancer Now. |
Alzheimer's Research UK's Strategic Approach
The charity's work is multi-faceted and extends beyond just funding research. A core part of their strategy, which Evans-Newton has championed, is raising public awareness and advocating for a better research environment. This involves several key components:
- Funding Breakthroughs: The charity provides significant funding to research projects across the UK and internationally, focusing on understanding and treating the diseases that cause dementia.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Alzheimer's Research UK has launched hard-hitting campaigns to challenge the perception of dementia as a normal part of aging, framing it as a physical disease that can be treated.
- Policy and Advocacy: The organisation actively engages with government bodies and policymakers to secure greater investment in dementia research and ensure it remains a political priority.
- Collaborative Initiatives: It fosters partnerships, such as the Dementia Drug Discovery Institutes and work with the UK Dementia Research Institute, to accelerate scientific progress.
The Mission to Defeat Dementia
The ultimate goal driving the work of Hilary Evans-Newton and her team is to find a cure for dementia. While the challenges are immense, the organisation maintains a hopeful and ambitious outlook based on recent scientific progress and growing understanding of the disease. The strategic decision to position dementia as a medical condition, rather than an inevitable part of aging, has been instrumental in gaining public support and investment. By focusing on biomedical research and working with a wide range of partners, Alzheimer's Research UK is committed to transforming the landscape of dementia treatment and ultimately, changing the ending for people affected by the condition.
Conclusion
Hilary Evans-Newton is the Chief Executive of Alzheimer's Research UK, a role she has held for over a decade, overseeing substantial growth and strategic development. Her leadership has been crucial in shifting public perception of dementia, advocating for increased research funding, and directing the charity's mission toward finding effective treatments and cures. With a strong background in the charity sector, she continues to lead a dedicated team of experts and campaigners in the collective effort to defeat dementia and its devastating impact.
Key achievements of Hilary Evans-Newton
- Exponential Growth: She has overseen significant growth in income and influence for the charity since becoming CEO.
- Strategic Initiatives: Evans-Newton pioneered new research initiatives like the Dementia Drug Discovery Institutes.
- Public Perception Shift: Her leadership led to a strategic shift in communications, positioning dementia as a medical condition rather than an inevitable part of aging.
- Government Collaboration: She was appointed co-chair of the Dame Barbara Windsor Dementia Goals Programme, a key UK government initiative.
- Increased Profile: Evans-Newton is credited with driving the organisation's profile and influence on a global scale.
More about Alzheimer's Research UK
What is Alzheimer's Research UK?
Alzheimer's Research UK is the UK's leading dementia research charity, dedicated to funding research into the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of dementia.
How does Alzheimer's Research UK get its funding?
The charity receives its funding primarily from donations, including individual giving, legacies, corporate partnerships, and fundraising events.
How long has Hilary Evans-Newton been CEO?
Hilary Evans-Newton was appointed Chief Executive in 2014, having joined the organisation in 2013.
What is the charity's primary focus?
Its primary focus is on biomedical research to find a cure and life-changing treatments for the diseases that cause dementia.
How does Alzheimer's Research UK raise awareness?
The charity runs national public awareness campaigns, engages in political and media engagement, and involves people with lived experience of dementia.
Are there other key leaders at Alzheimer's Research UK?
Yes, other key leaders include Emma Whitcombe (Deputy Chief Executive), Susan Kohlhaas (Executive Director of Research), and Samantha Benham-Hermetz (Director of Policy and Communications).
Does the charity focus on social care?
While they recognise the importance of social care, their specific mission is focused on advancing medical research and challenging people's perceptions of dementia as a medical condition.
