Dr Paul Hollinshead OBE appointed CEO at Dstl

Posted to News on Tuesday, February 15, 2022 Share:

DR PAUL Hollinshead OBE has taken the reins as CEO at the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), the organisation that focuses on the science inside the UK’s defence and national security. Hollinshead has led on extensive and complex science and technology programmes in the defence and civil sector for more than 20 years now.

Hollinshead joins Dstl from the Defence Nuclear Organisation where he was director of warhead. He began his UK Government career at Dstl’s predecessor the Chemical Defence Establishment at Porton Down as a higher scientific officer 34 years ago.

Speaking about the appointment, Hollinshead observed: “It’s the privilege of a lifetime to be asked to take stewardship of Dstl. It’s a world-renowned science and technology organisation and plays a pivotal role in keeping this country safe and prosperous. I now look forward to working with brilliant Dstl colleagues to ensure that the UK benefits from the best scientific advice and technological solutions available.”

Dstl chair Adrian Belton responded: “I’m delighted to welcome Paul to Dstl. He brings a tremendous amount of experience in science and technology across Government as well as defence and security that will be invaluable to us at what is an incredibly exciting time. I look forward to working with him.”

Hollinshead’s first day in the role was on Monday 14 February. He replaces Doug Umbers who has been interim CEO since Gary Aitkenhead left the organisation in April 2021. Umbers now returns to his role as chief operating officer at Dstl.