Matt Grest

Part of the IT Leaders 100 - a list of the most influential IT leaders in the UK in 2023.

Matt is an experienced senior tech executive who leads The Very Group's technology team, working deeply with data and platform change. He has also worked in some of Europe's biggest digital firms, including the BBC, Sky, Yorkshire Building Society, Capita and PlusNet.

How did you get into IT?

I've been interested in technology for as long as I can remember; from being a small child.

How do you ensure diversity is taken into account in your IT recruitment?

It's so important that the whole team really do understand that a diverse, open-minded, respectful and confident workforce is a higher performing workforce, and we all have an obligation to take that approach into all of our business transactions.

Which technology are you currently most excited by?

Artificial intelligence - it feels like we really do have momentum in 2023 where AI is going to be an easy-to-access service.

What would an outsider find the most surprising part of your job?

Not a single day ever turns out the way that you originally planned it.

What's your secret talent?

I'm still looking for it!

What makes you laugh?

My colleagues (in the right way!)