Kate Appleby

Provided senior leadership in the HMG response to the recovery mission of the failed entering SpaceX capsule and executed the UK’s Space Security & Resilience 10 year strategy. Championed agile delivery methodologies, instating frameworks like RAID logs, PDDs, and project briefs, while managing finances.

Contributed to the delivery of UKRI’s £12m+ public engagement portfolio, managing programmes and developing new activities. Facilitated the creation of digital and data workstreams and managed transitions including Workday, Monday, and Jira.

Led multi-million pound GDS-aligned digital and data transformation programmes, directing cross-functional teams to implement major infrastructure changes like DNS migrations and database builds. Presented strategic plans to senior government boards, championed agile delivery, and managed the full programme lifecycle including finance and risk resolution.

Directed the operational closure and transformation of national Covid-19 testing programmes and managed the design and delivery of surveillance testing and digital services. Collaborated with senior government offices on emergency response planning, secured £4M funding for lab upgrades, and led multi-disciplinary teams using agile methodology.

Optimised recruitment of locum and permanent doctors to reduce staffing gaps and supported the Covid-19 emergency response through rapid mobilisation of medical staffing solutions. Increased supplier compliance to 98%, fulfilled 1,000+ urgent staffing requests within 24 hours, and engaged clinical stakeholders to co-design workforce pathways.

Oversaw nationwide SARS-CoV-2 genomic sequencing efforts across NHS and academic labs, directing the transition of operational responsibility from PHE to DHSC. Managed a £50M portfolio with 100% KPI compliance, initiated cost-saving projects, and implemented automated systems to improve lab throughput.

Managed strategic NHS accounts worth £50m annually, leading national service delivery teams and ensuring compliance with NHS mandates and clinical standards. Designed and delivered transformation projects to drive efficiency and improved outcomes, while overseeing financial controls including P&L and forecasting.

Delivered critical NHS temporary staffing under high-pressure timelines, managing fulfilment operations including rate negotiation and contract compliance. Was recognised as Employee of the Year for exceptional impact and project management outcomes.

Managed luxury event planning and sales, optimising revenue generation and client satisfaction. Oversaw logistics and vendor coordination for private and corporate functions.

Conducted field surveys and environmental impact assessments supporting land use planning applications. Prepared ecological reports in line with UK biodiversity and planning regulations.

Supported senior ecologists in habitat assessments and wildlife monitoring for development projects. Contributed to protected species reports and baseline ecological surveys.

Grade: First Class Honours

Studied the principles of conservation and biological sciences. Gained a comprehensive understanding of ecosystems, biodiversity, and environmental management.