Spotlight on… Ali Ramsay, Director of External Affairs

Earlier this year, the Epilepsy Research Institute was delighted to appoint Ali Ramsay as our new Director of External Affairs to enhance our external communications, events, fundraising and policy work. Since joining the team, Ali has been working closely with our Chief Executive, and senior management team to help develop and implement plans for the long-term vision of the Institute.

Ali is an accomplished communications and public affairs professional with more than 20 years of experience in strategic roles. With recent posts including Head of Policy and Public Affairs for the British Veterinary Association, and Chief of Staff in the UK Parliament, she has a track record of transforming teams, creating and delivering effective strategies, and influencing to effect change.

As a certified leadership coach, Ali focuses on enhancing individual and team productivity while advocating for their health and well-being. She holds Chartered PR (CIPR) and Chartered Manager (CMI) credentials, and is also a trustee for Twins Trust. Outside of work, Ali is passionate about health and fitness.

The Director of External Affairs role was created to build vital networks and processes that will shape a dynamic external affairs function for the Institute. This position is pivotal in helping to drive strategic change through robust policy development, communications and fundraising efforts.

Key responsibilities include:

• Strengthening external engagement and increasing our visibility by enhancing our media outreach, marketing, fundraising and influence across all channels.
• Enhancing the Institute’s brand, promoting our research programme and advancing our reputation as a leader in epilepsy research.
• Building stakeholder relationships and fostering strong connections with supporters, researchers, clinicians, government representatives, the NHS and individuals affected by epilepsy.

After successfully leading the redevelopment of our website and recent launch of the One in 100 campaign, Ali and the External Affairs team are now focused on engaging MPs and supporters through the campaign, refining internal processes and promoting the Institute’s inaugural conference, scheduled for May 2025.

The Institute’s Chief Executive, Rosemarie Pardington, said: “During the short time Ali has been in post, she has already made a huge difference to the pace of our External Affairs work and it is a great pleasure to have her on the team. Over the coming months, we will be continuing to increase the impact of our work through the implementation of our ambitious plans.”