Genomics England has appointmented Chris Wigley as Chief Executive Officer, with effect from 1 October.
Chris joins Genomics England from QuantumBlack, a world leader in machine learning and artificial intelligence. Machine learning is critical in the analysis of the vast amounts of data involved in genomics, so Chris’ expertise in this area will be invaluable in driving Genomics England’s pioneering work with the NHS to realise the true potential of genomic medicine.
Chris was a Partner at McKinsey from 2009 to 2015. He then focused on growing QuantumBlack, a McKinsey company, as Chief Operating Officer. Prior to this, he worked with the British Foreign Office as a diplomat, and on digital transformation at the BBC.
The Chair of Genomics England, Jonathan Symonds CBE, said “Chris joins us at a significant time for Genomics England as it takes the next steps in using the data entrusted to us by participants to transform healthcare. Chris’ vision and energy will maintain Genomics England’s place as a world leader in genomic medicine. His leadership experience at QuantumBlack will be fundamental to our goal of building a world leading organisation delivering genomic science and analytics into routine medical care with our partners in the NHS and medical research.”
Chris said “I am tremendously excited to be joining Genomics England at this pivotal time. The fantastic work on the original 100,000 Genomes Project mission (which many thought was impossible just a few short years ago) shows the talent and grit in this team. Of course it would also have not been made possible without the cooperation of so many stakeholders and, most importantly, the participants who put their trust in the Project and to whom we are deeply committed. Today, Genomics England’s partnership with the NHS is leading the world in bringing cutting-edge genomics research and analytics into daily medical care to benefit people across the UK and beyond. I can’t wait to join the team and help shape the next chapter in this extraordinary journey to bring digital technologies and products to clinicians and researchers and – most importantly – achieve transformative outcomes for patients.”
Sir Mark Caulfield, who has acted as Interim CEO, will continue as Chief Scientist in the next phase of transformation of genomic medicine in the NHS.
Matt Hancock, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, said “Genomics has huge potential to diagnose diseases earlier, unlock solutions for rare conditions and provide tailored treatments to individual patients to boost their chances of recovery. It could also help us drive the preventative agenda and help people avoid developing some diseases at all.”
“We’re already leading the world in this exciting field and I’m delighted Chris will be helping us achieve our Long Term Plan ambition of bringing the benefits of personalised medicine to every patient, clinician and carer. Chris is a truly transformational leader and I have every confidence he will help the country realise our ambitious, world leading vision for Genomics England.”
