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.

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Tom Symons

Deputy Director, fairer start mission

Tom is the deputy mission director for the fairer start mission at Nesta.

His research focuses on government innovation and he is currently undertaking research into the ways data can help governments to improve decision making and support innovation.

Prior to Nesta Tom was an associate at Social Finance, a not-for-profit organisation that works with government, the social sector and the finance community to develop solutions to complex social problems. At Social Finance Tom worked on projects developing Social Impact Bonds and whole systems change programmes in local public services, including children’s services, early years provision and health and social care integration.

Tom previously worked at the Local Government Association, and before that was a senior researcher at the think tank New Local Government Network. Tom began his career as a graduate trainee at the London Borough of Islington. He has a BA in Economics and Politics from Exeter University and an MA in Housing from the University of Westminster.

Outside of work Tom enjoys photography, travel, hiking and will watch and/or play almost any sport that doesn’t involve horses or engines.