Wednesday 11 February 2026

United Kingdom National Nuclear Laboratory (UKNNL) has announced a series of leadership appointments designed to strengthen the organisation’s ability to deliver its mission for government, the nuclear sector, customers and society.  

Bringing together deep sector expertise, scientific leadership, operational excellence and a commitment to UKNNL’s leadership values, the appointments position UKNNL to meet the challenges and opportunities of implementing its 10-year transformation as laid out in the Strategic Review. 

David Scott appointed Interim Chair 

David Scott joins UKNNL’s board as Interim Chair, following Ian Funnell’s decision to step down from the role.  

David brings proven experience advising on complex, high-profile infrastructure transactions, positioning UKNNL to navigate the strategic challenges ahead. His work spanning energy, transport and telecommunications provides valuable cross-sector insight as UKNNL strengthens its role across the nuclear landscape. As founder of an innovative tidal turbine business, David also demonstrates a personal commitment to the clean energy transition. 

David said: “UKNNL plays a vital role in the UK’s nuclear ecosystem, and I’m delighted to be joining the organisation at such an important time. Throughout my career I’ve worked on complex infrastructure challenges, and few sectors are as critical to the UK’s long-term energy security as nuclear. My focus will be on providing strategic support to the executive team as they deliver UKNNL’s mission and continue its transformation into the laboratory that government and the nation needs.” 

Gareth Headdock appointed Deputy CEO 

Gareth Headdock has been appointed Deputy CEO alongside his current role as Chief Science & Technology Officer. During his time at UKNNL, Gareth has successfully strengthened UKNNL’s science and technology agenda, reinforcing its importance to the organisation’s future direction. 

This appointment signals UKNNL’s commitment to putting science at the heart of its strategy as it develops into the laboratory of the future. Gareth’s success in strengthening the science and technology agenda demonstrates the capability to drive organisation-wide transformation and his appointment ensures continuity whilst positioning UKNNL to deliver on its ambitious scientific goals. 

Gareth said: “Science and technology are at the heart of everything UKNNL does, and I’m proud of what we’ve achieved in strengthening our science and technology agenda. UKNNL has a unique opportunity to lead with science and make a real difference for the nuclear sector and for society. I’m excited to take on this broader role and work alongside colleagues across the organisation to deliver on our ambitious goals.” 

Wayne Muckley permanent appointment as Chief Operations Officer 

Wayne Muckley has been appointed Chief Operations Officer on a permanent basis, following his appointment to the interim role in May 2025. Wayne brings over 30 years of nuclear sector experience, with more than 20 of those spent at UKNNL. 

Wayne’s continuation in this role provides stability and continuity for UKNNL’s delivery operations at a critical time. Wayne embodies the organisation’s values and understands its operations inside out. He has driven a strengthened customer focus across delivery operations, working in close partnership with Chief Customer Officer James Murphy. 

Wayne said: “I’ve seen how the nuclear sector has transformed over my time at UKNNL and I’m proud to continue leading our delivery operations into this next phase of change. Operational excellence is fundamental to UKNNL’s success, and our focus on the customer is central to everything we do. I’m pleased to be taking on this role permanently and committed to ensuring we deliver safely, securely, reliably and to the highest standards for the people who depend on us.” 

Mike White is the new Chief Nuclear Officer 

Mike White has been appointed Chief Nuclear Officer, following Des Wright’s announcement that he will retire in 2026. Mike brings 38 years of experience working on the Sellafield site, having held a number of senior operational roles for Sellafield Ltd including Senior Operations Manager, Head of Engineering, Operating Unit Head of Infrastructure Services and most recently Head of Analytical Services Recovery. 

Mike’s nearly four decades of hands-on experience at Sellafield brings an unrivalled understanding of nuclear safety, security and regulatory requirements.

His track record in managing facilities and leading recovery programmes equips Mike to address UKNNL’s most demanding operational challenges. His extensive experience managing regulatory and stakeholder expectations will provide assurance to partners across the nuclear sector. To ensure continuity, there will be a phased handover from Des over the next four to five months. 

Mike said: “Having spent nearly 40 years working in nuclear operations, I understand the importance of safety, security and getting the fundamentals right. Nuclear safety is non-negotiable, and it will remain my absolute priority in this role. I’m grateful to Des for his leadership and I look forward to working closely with him over the coming months to ensure a smooth transition for UKNNL and our partners.” 

UKNNL CEO Julianne Antrobus said:  

“As UKNNL continues to evolve, strong leadership is essential. I’m delighted to welcome David to our board and to see Gareth, Wayne and Mike take on these important roles in the Executive Leadership Team. 

“I have no doubt that their collective strength enhances our ability to deliver for government, the nuclear sector, our customers and for society. Their experience spans decades of work across infrastructure, science, operations and nuclear safety.  

“Together they will play a key role in supporting UKNNL’s delivery of our 10-year transformation outlined in the Strategic Review and our ambition to become the laboratory of the future. Importantly, I know that they embody the values we expect of each other and our leaders here at UKNNL.”