The British Pharmacological Society is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Neha Issar-Brown as its new Chief Executive Officer. She will take up her role on 8 December 2025.
Neha brings a strong record with over 20 years of strategic and operational leadership across the UK and international health, research and innovation landscape. She has held senior leadership roles at major UK scientific and medical organisations including the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), Medical Research Council (MRC), Fight for Sight and the Royal Society, where she shaped scientific research strategies, policy and funding at a national level.
Most recently she led several international projects in health and innovation, was Director of Research and Health Intelligence at Arthritis UK, where she led the development of the charity’s first Research strategy and is currently Chair of Quality for the NHS Integrated Care Board for Mid and South Essex, thereby bringing a rich blend of experience in public, private and charity sectors.
Prior to this, Neha has led some of UK’s largest cross-sector collaborations and initiatives in Multiple long-term conditions, precision medicine, healthy ageing and led the development of the international mobility policy for STEM researchers later acting as an advisory Board member for the UK Global Talent route.
Professor Sir Mark Caulfield, President of the British Pharmacological Society, said:
“We are delighted to welcome Neha to the Society. She brings deep expertise in research strategy and a strong commitment to supporting scientific communities. Her leadership will be invaluable as we continue to champion pharmacology, deliver our strategic priorities, and support our diverse membership.”
Professor Cherry Wainwright, President-Elect of the BPS, said:
“This appointment is great news for our community - Neha is joining the Society at a pivotal time. Her depth of experience and enthusiasm for strategic leadership in science and medicine will be a tremendous asset as we continue to strengthen our influence and impact. I look forward to working closely with her as we shape the next phase of our journey.”
Dr Issar-Brown said:
“I am delighted to be joining the Society and its exceptional membership at a time when pharmacology has never been more important in the national research and health landscape. BPS already has a powerful legacy, and I am excited to work alongside our community to build on this strong foundation to ensure the Society continues to drive influence, insight and impact across the UK and globally”
Dr Neha Issar-Brown’s appointment marks the beginning of an important new chapter for the Society, as it continues to advance pharmacological research, education, and innovation.
The Society will share further information in the coming weeks, including opportunities for members and partners to meet Dr Issar-Brown and hear about her priorities for the year ahead.
The British Pharmacological Society would also like to extend its thanks to Mike Poole (Director of Finance, Business and Commercial Operations) and Kathryn Banham (Director, Scientific Programmes, Policy, and Partnerships), whose steady leadership has supported the organisation through this transition.