Leadership team

Ben Ward, Chief Executive Officer

Ben leads our mission to engage all children through science to explore the world around them and help them to feel empowered to be active citizens. He’s committed to building a world where curiosity leads to better outcomes for children, communities and the planet.

Meet Ben

Grant Brisland, Chief Operating Officer

Grant leads the team responsible for the day-to-day operations at Winchester Science Centre, our flagship educational visitor experience in the South Downs National Park. Creating fun, inclusive, impactful and memorable experiences for our diverse audiences.

Meet Grant

Jo Hennessy, Director of Experiences

Jo shapes the way our visitors experience Wonderseekers. Working with children and subject experts to co-create immersive and engaging exhibitions and learning spaces. Creating impactful learning, that's inclusive and sustainable, based on storytelling and play.

Meet Jo

Emily Mace, Director of Science Engagement

Emily brings strategic leadership to our science engagement programmes, ensuring activities connect with children at our visitor centre and in communities. She’s passionate about making science fun and for everyone, especially those facing the greatest barriers to engage.

Meet Emily

Charlotte Mercer, Director of External Relations and Communications

Charlie manages how we share our story and grow our influence. Through communications and building partnerships, she helps raise awareness of our work, build reach and have a bigger impact.

Meet Charlie

Laura Ollis, Director of People and Culture

Laura focuses on shaping a great working environment for our team. By embedding our values into daily life, she ensures Wonderseekers is a place where people feel supported, inspired and ready to do their best work.

Meet Laura

Kate Wasche, Director of Fundraising

Kate leads our fundraising strategy, building relationships with funders, sponsors and donors. With the fundraising team, Kate helps make our mission possible by securing support for our programmes and partnerships.

Meet Kate

Joe Bennett, Head of Estates

Joe looks after our buildings and spaces, creating safe and inspiring environments for science exploration. His behind-the-scenes work helps make every visit smooth, welcoming and full of potential.

Louise Bridle, Head of Finance

Louise oversees the financial operations of our Science Centre, ensuring we remain sustainable and effective. Her work supports everything we do—from planning ahead to delivering impact every day.

Paul Cook, Head of Visitor Experience

Paul ensures every guest at Winchester Science Centre has a brilliant visit. He leads our front-of-house teams and helps shape experiences that are fun, engaging and memorable.

Jenna Cox, Head of Programming

Jenna curates our programme of events, school visits and daily activities. She brings together the elements that make a day at the Science Centre exciting, interactive and full of curiosity.

Andy Keenan, Head of Equity, Community Engagement and Outreach

Andy leads our work with communities, helping us reach children and families who might face barriers to engaging with science. He champions access, inclusion and meaningful collaboration.

Guy Cordran, Head of Digital Infrastructure

Guy is responsible for the charity's operational digital infrastructure, enabling a seamless interface between staff, technology and systems, and leading on the development and delivery of the Charity's IT strategy.