The Team

Samantha Walker
Chief Executive
Sam is the Chief Executive of Rank Prize. Prior to joining the organisation, she worked at Prostate Cancer UK on their Healthcare Improvement Programmes. She has a background in science; she studied Applied Biological Sciences with a focus on genetics at university and previously worked as a Science Operations Officer at the world-renowned Francis Crick Institute. In addition to her non-profit experience, Sam has a keen interest in finance and accounting.

Philippa Lewis
Communications Manager
Philippa joined Rank Prize in 2020. She has worked in higher education for over ten years, first as a researcher in the arts and humanities and more recently as an administrator. She has previously held roles at the University of Cambridge, University of Bristol, and UCL. Philippa enjoys the variety which comes with working at Rank Prize, and the opportunity to support talented academics and their cutting-edge research. She is based in Bristol.

Betti Simon
Events & Administration Officer
Betti is an experienced Executive Assistant with an extensive background working in the NHS and also privately as a Medicolegal Service Manager. In 2004, in order to further her career, she moved to the UK from Hungary where she used to support trauma surgeons in a large teaching hospital. Betti enjoys working with academics and scientists and has a keen interest in nutrition and mental health. She is based in Nottingham.