Tuesday 1 April 2025

Julianne Antrobus has today (Tuesday 1 April 2025) officially begun her tenure as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of United Kingdom National Nuclear Laboratory (UKNNL)  

Julianne, whose appointment was first announced in October 2024, brings extensive experience from across the nuclear sector to the role. She joins UKNNL from PA Consulting, where she served as Global Head of Nuclear and UK Energy and Utilities lead, establishing and growing an innovative nuclear consulting practice with global reach. 

Coming Full Circle 

For Julianne, the journey to becoming UKNNL’s new CEO represents a significant personal milestone, having begun her career as a Graduate Trainee at British Nuclear Fuels Ltd (BNFL), UKNNL’s predecessor organisation. Following her early career at BNFL, Julianne held strategic leadership positions at Atkins and Nuvia before joining PA Consulting. Her contributions to the nuclear sector were recognised with an Honorary Fellowship from the Nuclear Institute in 2023. 

Over the last few weeks Julianne has been preparing to take the reins alongside outgoing CEO Paul Howarth, who has led the organisation through a period of significant growth and transformation over the last 14 years. Julianne has already visited all UKNNL sites across the country, engaging with teams and gaining first-hand experience of the organisation’s capabilities and projects so she is ready to succeed from day one. 

Julianne Antrobus, CEO of UKNNL, said:  

“I could not be more proud to officially become UKNNL’s new CEO. Returning to where my career began feels like completing a journey I always hoped to make. The nuclear sector today stands at a pivotal moment, with unprecedented opportunities to contribute to the UK’s energy security and our journey to becoming a clean energy superpower.” 

“The perception of nuclear has transformed dramatically during my career. Today, it is rightfully viewed as an essential part of our clean energy solution, and UKNNL will play an increasingly vital role in advancing the science and technology that will drive the sector forward.” 

“I have had such a warm welcome to UKNNL in my first few weeks, and what’s struck me most so far is the extraordinary talent and dedication of our people, who are so  committed to delivering nuclear science to benefit society. The depth of expertise and passion for nuclear science that I’ve witnessed right across our portfolio of sites reinforces my belief in UKNNL’s unique position to create meaningful impact across the industry and wider society.” 

Looking to the Future 

Julianne takes the helm at a pivotal moment for the nuclear sector, which is increasingly recognised as central to the UK’s energy security and decarbonisation goals.  As she formally takes up her position, Julianne has expressed excitement about building on UKNNL’s strong foundation while pursuing new opportunities for growth and innovation, particularly following the Government’s Strategic Review of UKNNL’s role. 

The UKNNL Board has expressed confidence that under Julianne’s leadership, the organisation is well-positioned to build on its successes and expand its contribution to addressing national and global challenges through nuclear science and innovation. 

Ian Funnell, Chair of UKNNL, said:  

“With the growing recognition of nuclear’s importance to the UK becoming a clean energy superpower, Julianne’s leadership comes at exactly the right time. Her vision for expanding UKNNL’s capabilities and influence will ensure we continue to deliver exceptional value to Government, industry and society.”