Head of AI & Data Economy Programmes, Innovate UK
Tom has been working in the innovation ecosystem for the last 18 years, across multiple sectors. His background is in design, and he has helped create and launch products and services in consumer electronics, FMCG and digital experiences. He has also run consultancies for industry on innovation and design thinking.
Tom works at Innovate UK, the UK’s Innovation Agency. Innovate UK drive productivity and economic growth by supporting businesses to develop and realise the potential of new ideas. Since 2007, they have invested around £2.5 billion to help businesses across the country to innovate, and they currently have an annual budget over £650m.
Tom’s portfolio at Innovate UK covers the whole Digital economy and Creative Industries – which is worth £180bn to the UK economy. He leads a team of technical and sectoral experts to deliver impact across the economy.
Fashion and the luxury sector are a key priority for the UK. Tom has been leading a cross-government initiative to support ‘sustainable fashion’ including innovation missions to New York and Paris, and curating fashion’s presence at Expo 2020. He is currently developing a multi-million-pound programme to transform the sector towards a circular model.