IMechE appoints Space Agency’s Bunn as new chief executive

Bunn will take up the role in July following the retirement of the present incumbent, Dr Colin Brown.

In addition to holding her Space Agency role since 2018, she sits on the board of directors at the US Space Foundation and on the World Economic Forum Future Council on space technology.

She gained a BEng at Leeds University and continued her studies to secure a PhD in metallurgy from Cambridge University.

IMechE president Terry Spall welcomed the appointment, pointing out Bunn’s comprehensive experience.

“We have had huge interest in this role and Alice was the outstanding candidate, meeting all the criteria we laid down at the start of our recruitment process. She has the vision, leadership, and flair to steer the Institution through its next stage of its journey,” he said.

“She has had an outstanding career in a number of senior strategic and executive roles.  She is an accomplished public speaker with an impressive track record and will ensure engineering will have a strong voice as we look to solve the many challenges our society faces.

“Alice has the personal and professional skills to ensure the Institution continues to innovate and develop while retaining its character and member focus.”

Bunn responded that she was “delighted” to be joining the Institution at a key time in world events.

“Coronavirus and climate change have shown us how mechanical engineers have a vital role to play in helping us adapt to our rapidly changing environment. In my current role at the UK Space Agency, I have seen first-hand the fundamental contribution of engineering to space programmes,” she explained.

“I look forward to working with members and staff to build on the Institution’s many achievements, develop its role as a leading voice for the engineering profession, and advocate for the power of mechanical engineering to society at large.”