Executive Team
David Wells
David has been the Chief Executive of the IBMS since June 2021 and is also the Scientific Lead for Pathology at NHS England (London), a role he has held since September 2021. In March 2024, he was appointed Chair of the Board of Trustees for the Science Council.
Recognised for his contributions to pathology and healthcare transformation, David was awarded Honorary Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists (RCPath) in 2020. His leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and his work on pathology service reform earned him global recognition—he has appeared on The Pathologist magazine’s Power List six times since 2018.
Pathology leadership and COVID-19 response
Before joining the IBMS, David led the NHS England and NHS Improvement Pathology Consolidation Programme, securing record investment in workforce and digital solutions. Under his leadership, pathology networks progressed more in a few years than in the previous two decades.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, he played a pivotal national role in NHS England’s testing strategy, advising on policy, strategy, and technology deployment. His expertise helped the UK government meet its target of 100,000 tests per day in April 2020, while also ensuring sufficient capacity and guiding ministers on key decisions.
For his outstanding contributions, David received an Honorary Fellowship from RCPath in 2020 and was awarded the Alumni Frontline Service Award by Anglia Ruskin University in 2021.
Early career
David holds BSc and MSc degrees in biomedical science from Anglia Ruskin University. He trained at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge, qualifying as a biomedical scientist in 2000.
He progressed through laboratory management and academic roles, later becoming the first lead healthcare scientist at Great Ormond Street Hospital, overseeing the entire healthcare science workforce. He then became director of operations at Viapath, managing one of the UK’s largest networked pathology services, including King’s College Hospital and Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospitals.
IBMS contributions
David has been actively involved with the IBMS since 2008, initially as a specialist portfolio assessor for clinical chemistry and later serving in multiple leadership roles:
- IBMS Council Member (London Region) (2015–2021)
- Chair of the Membership and Marketing Committee (2020)
- Special Advisory Panel Member for Clinical Chemistry (2009)
- Deputy Examiner for Clinical Chemistry (2011–2015)
He has also represented the IBMS on NICE diagnostic advisory panels, national forums, and the RCPath Council, and has contributed to the Parliamentary and Science Committee.
Debbie Buggs
Debbie Buggs is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. She trained with Neville Russell (now Forvis Mazars) in London, and spent several years in the financial services sector before moving into the charity sector. She joined the IBMS in June 2024.
Lynda Rigby
Lynda Rigby is a Chartered Marketer with over 25 years’ experience in the not-for-profit and membership sector. She joined the Institute of Biomedical Science in 2012.
She is Executive Head of Marketing and Membership at the IBMS, with responsibility for marketing, communications, membership, policy, events and engagement. As a member of the senior management team, she provides strategic and operational leadership across the Institute, serves as executive lead for Congress, and oversees several key external partnerships.
Alongside her professional career, Lynda has a background in archaeology, specialising in osteology and palaeopathology.
Sue Jones
Following a PhD at the University of Birmingham, Sue held three post-doctoral positions at the University of Leeds before moving to the University of Bradford in 2005 to take up a teaching-focused position. Progressing rapidly from lecturer to deputy head of school, Sue developed a strong track record in student support, curriculum design, and innovative assessment strategies.
In 2014, Sue joined York St John University and led the development of its first STEM degree in biomedical science. The programme has consistently ranked among the top five in its subject area in the UK, with over 85% of students achieving first-class or upper second-class degrees. In addition to introducing placement year routes and applied biosciences programmes, Sue developed two Level 6 degree apprenticeships in collaboration with local industry and NHS partners. Beyond programme development, Sue played a key role in institutional strategy and policy, enhancing the student experience and advancing pedagogical approaches.
Over her 20-year academic career, Sue has been recognised nationally for contributions to learning and teaching, student support, and professional development. Key achievements include:
- National Teaching Fellowship (2022)
- Principal Fellowship of Advance HE (PFHEA) (2021)
- Promotion to Associate Professor (2021)
- Collaborative Award for Teaching Excellence (CATE) (2021) for capstone experience work with colleagues from the University of Leeds and the University of Sunderland
- Deputy Chair of the QAA Subject Benchmark Statement Review for Biomedical Sciences (2021)
- Higher Education Bioscience Teacher of the Year (2020)
Sue has also contributed extensively to the IBMS as a subject expert in programme development and external examining.
Since June 2022, Sue has been Executive Head of Education at the IBMS, overseeing all education and training initiatives, including BSc and MSc accreditation events. Working closely with colleagues, Sue leads the development, delivery, evaluation, and enhancement of IBMS education to support, advance, and promote members at all stages of their careers.
Peter Smith
