Rachel Foley

As a Programme Manager in the Innovation team, Rachel delivers design-led programmes that demonstrate the value of design in addressing complex challenges. Her work focuses on innovation projects that create meaningful impact, while helping to shape new opportunities for the Design Council.

Before joining the Design Council, Rachel built a multidisciplinary career spanning design research, programme management and emerging technologies. She has led projects across the tech, healthcare and design sectors at organisations including Google DeepMind, IDEO, Superflux, Central Saint Martins and Mount Sinai Health System. Her experience combines strategic research, innovation and programme delivery, with particular interests in how emerging technologies can shape people, society and the planet.

Rachel studied Material Futures at Central Saint Martins and Sustainable Design Entrepreneurship at the Fashion Institute of Technology. She is particularly interested in speculative and future-focused approaches to design that encourage more responsible and inclusive innovation.

Outside of work, she enjoys writing short stories and essays with a focus on feminist speculative fiction. She also loves all things textiles, including knitting, crochet, sewing and weaving.