New team will steer drive to make UK a global digital leader

The Cabinet Office is setting up a new Central Digital and Data Office for Government. 

It will be the new strategic centre for Digital, Data and Technology (DDaT) for the Government and will launch in early February.

As part of the move three senior DDaT leaders have been appointed:

• Paul Willmott, Chief Digital Adviser for LEGO Brands Group, will chair a new Central Digital and Data Office (CDDO) for the Government
• Joanna Davinson, currently Chief Digital, Data and Technology Officer at the Home Office, will be appointed the Executive Director of CDDO
• Tom Read, Chief Digital Officer at the Ministry of Justice, will be the new Chief Executive Officer of Government Digital Service (GDS)

As Executive Director of the Central Digital and Data Office, Joanna Davinson will be the professional head of the government’s 18,000 strong Digital, Data and Technology profession. She will lead the Digital, Data and Technology function for Government.

As Chief Executive Officer of Government Digital Service, Tom Read will oversee the operation of their standards, controls and assurance functions, and steer the development and delivery of new digital products and services.

Together, they will be responsible for shaping and delivering the government’s strategy to overhaul legacy IT systems, strengthen cyber security and improve capability.

Paul Willmott commented:

“This is an exciting and important moment for digital government in the UK. There is a clear mission to establish the UK as global leader in digital government and to provide citizens with better services. 

“The ambition and challenges are substantial but, from what I’ve seen, we have both the capabilities and determination to succeed. I’m delighted to be able to help.”