Ellie Rice

Eleanor (Ellie) Rice is Security Hub Lead within UK Defence Innovation (UKDI), leading engagement across the national security innovation ecosystem to accelerate the adoption of innovative capabilities that strengthen UK security, resilience and economic growth. With almost 20 years' experience spanning policing, defence, industry and government, she has built and led programmes that connect operational users, policymakers, investors and businesses to turn emerging technologies into deployable capability. Ellie previously led the innovation and SME policy elements of the Defence and Security Industrial Strategy (DSIS) and is recognised for building partnerships across Whitehall and industry that support sovereign capability, drive investment and enable innovative suppliers to scale within the defence and security sectors. Through leadership roles across DASA and UKDI, she has championed the transition of innovation into operational use, helping strengthen both national security outcomes and the UK's defence and security industrial base.