Samantha Winder

Sam is an experienced business development leader with a strong background in digital innovation, strategic partnerships, and research commercialisation. With a degree in Marketing and Economics and qualifications in project management, she brings a unique blend of commercial insight and operational expertise to the role.

Her career began in web development and digital marketing, providing early insight into user-centric design and digital engagement. She went on to join Lancaster University’s Computing Department, where she supported the transformation of cutting-edge research into commercially viable digital solutions. Her work has since spanned sectors including digital health, engineering, and creative industries, supporting innovation across public and private organisations.

She has held senior business development roles at the University of Manchester and Creative England, driving sector-led innovation in Greater Manchester’s digital and creative industries. While at Manchester, she supported the commercialisation of pioneering research projects—from advanced materials like graphene to next-generation health and beauty technologies.

This led to a pivotal role in the Senior Management Team at North West EHealth, a digital health spin-out created in partnership with the University of Manchester and the NHS. As Business Development Manager, she supported the company’s expansion into global markets, contributing to the development of remote clinical trials and the effective use of health data and electronic patient records. Her work in product development, international sales, and digital health compliance helped shape a company at the forefront of innovation in electronic health records and data-driven healthcare.

Sam later returned to Lancaster University to lead the £4.3 million ERDF-funded Health Innovation Campus programme. She managed a multidisciplinary team delivering innovation support to over 250 SMEs, before becoming Commercial Programme Manager, developing strategic partnerships in health data, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence.

Sam brings deep expertise in health innovation, compliance and regulatory frameworks and is passionate about building high-performing, collaborative teams. She thrives on solving complex challenges and creating new, impactful pathways to innovation—values that align strongly with the mission and vision of the National Examining Board for Dental Nurses.