About Nesta

Nesta is an innovation foundation. For us, innovation means turning bold ideas into reality and changing lives for the better. We use our expertise, skills and funding in areas where there are big challenges facing society.

Rachael Smith

Rachael is Executive Assistant to Hasan Bakhshi, Executive Director of the Creative Industries Policy and Evidence Centre (PEC).

Prior to working at Nesta, Rachael has grown a long career in banking since finishing school, most recently spending the last three years in Private Banking. Since then she has moved to London from Australia for a change of scene and industry. Rachael has a degree in Commerce with a Major in Marketing from Macquarie University in Sydney, as well as a diploma in Events Management. She considers herself to be a people person and one to get things done. She is also skilled in communication, client service, collaboration, networking and diary management.

Outside work, Rachael is into all things fitness, food and fun. As well as participating in football, dance, weight training and pilates, she also loves baking and cooking for friends and family, and enjoys travelling around the UK and Europe when able.