The Oxford Trust has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of two new trustees, bringing additional expertise in entrepreneurship, healthcare strategy, and science education to its board.
Lily Elsner, CEO and co-founder of Jack Fertility, and Emily Howman, an independent healthcare strategy consultant at Aoraki Consulting, have joined the organisation as it continues to champion innovation, education, and public engagement in science across Oxfordshire.
Ms Elsner is an experienced entrepreneur with a strong track record in building and leading start-ups. Based at the Wood Centre for Innovation, she has first-hand knowledge of the region’s innovation ecosystem and is a committed advocate for women in business.
Her leadership experience and entrepreneurial insight are expected to contribute significantly to the Trust’s work in supporting science and technology ventures.
Ms Howman brings more than two decades of experience in healthcare communications and education. In her role at Aoraki Consulting, she has worked extensively to inform healthcare professionals, patients, policymakers, and investors about therapeutic advances aimed at improving patient outcomes.
She also designs and delivers educational programmes to upskill sectors within the pharmaceutical industry. Her scientific expertise is complemented by a strong commitment to widening access to science education, particularly in encouraging girls to pursue careers in STEM.
The appointments reflect The Oxford Trust’s ongoing mission to foster scientific engagement and innovation within the region. They also come at a time of continued development for the organisation, including the opening of new facilities aimed at supporting research and enterprise.
David Llewellyn, who advised the board over the past year, has stepped down from his role following his relocation to Australia.
Steve Burgess, chief executive officer, The Oxford Trust, said:
“We are pleased to welcome Lily and Emily to the board. Their expertise and vision will play a crucial role in furthering our mission to “encourage the pursuit of science” within the region.
“They strengthen our already exceptional board, and I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all trustees for their continued commitment. We thank David for his insight and experience in running start ups which has helped the Board over the last year and wish him every success in Australia.”
Lily Elsner said:
“It is a privilege to join the board of The Oxford Trust, an organisation that is so central to Oxfordshire’s innovation ecosystem. As a founder, I’ve experienced first-hand the value of supportive environments such as The Oxford Trust’s Wood Centre for Innovation.
“I look forward to contributing to the Trust’s mission and helping to champion entrepreneurship and diversity in science and technology.”
Emily Howman said:
“I’m delighted to be joining The Oxford Trust at such an exciting time with the opening of the new Aspen Building. The Trust plays a vital role in inspiring engagement with science and supporting innovation across the region.
“I’m particularly passionate about widening access to science education and encouraging more young people – especially girls – to see the opportunities available to them in STEM.”
The new trustees join an established board including chair John Boyle and vice chair Megan Morys-Carter, alongside senior figures from science, education, and public life.
