Hilary Newiss is a lawyer specialising in intellectual property and former partner in a City law firm. She has served on several public and charity boards involved in innovation, science, arts and culture. She brings her legal expertise, governance and strategy knowledge to the Board.

Hilary has served on the Board of the Natural History Museum, Charleston House, and several boards in health and social care. She is currently the Chair of the British Science Association, on the Board of the Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult and the Steering Board of the Intellectual Property Office. She is an Honorary Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences, and recently retired as Chair of National Voices, the umbrella group of charities advocating for care to revolve around patients.

She is a long-time opera lover, supporter of the ENO and amateur pianist and singer.

Hilary replaces Jessica Pulay, who leaves to chair the Board of The Wallace Collection.

Commenting on the appointment, ENO Chair Dr Harry Bunjes says: ‘All at the ENO are delighted to welcome Hilary Newiss to the ENO Board of Trustees. Bringing with her a wealth of experience across strategy, law, culture, health and public engagement, her expertise is equalled only by her passion for opera and the ENO.

Hilary Newiss says: ‘I am incredibly pleased to join the ENO Board, an organisation I have long since admired for its commitment to creating accessible art. With my experience in culture, innovation and health, I look forward to joining the ENO, which has in recent years been at the forefront of pioneering the extensive benefits of combining arts and health through its award-winning ENO Breathe programme. I look forward to playing a part in helping the ENO continue to deliver its mission to make opera for everyone.’