Dr Peter Gallagher is a board-level FMCG R&D executive and innovation leader with more than three decades of global experience across personal care, food, biotech, and emerging technologies. Widely recognised for translating science into scalable commercial value, he has led breakthrough innovation strategies across Unilever and high-growth start-ups, integrating advanced science, digital capabilities, and open innovation to serve billions of consumers worldwide.

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Formerly Executive Vice President of Strategic Sciences at Unilever, Peter led a global organisation of more than 200 scientists responsible for long-range technology development across a $50+ billion portfolio. His leadership delivered landmark innovations including Lifebuoy’s antibacterial technology, Dove’s pioneering mild surfactant systems, biodegradable tea bags for PG Tips and Lipton, and the introduction of digital product lifecycle management across FMCG R&D. Earlier, as a Vice President leading global teams of up to 800 scientists, he oversaw Skin Care and Hair Care R&D worldwide, launching major technologies such as Unilever’s 2-in-1 shampoo and advanced anti-dandruff systems, while directing innovation centres across Europe, Asia, and North America.

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Since 2019, Peter has worked as an independent R&D and innovation consultant, advising venture-backed start-ups, multinational companies, universities, healthcare organisations, and public-sector bodies across the UK and internationally.

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He holds a PhD in Organic Chemistry and a Doctor of Science from the University of Liverpool, is a published author and named inventor on multiple patents.