Richard Corbridge

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

Formerly CIO at Boots, Richard moved to the public sector in 2023 when he accepted the position of Director General (Chief Digital and Information Officer) at the Department for Work and Pensions. In this role he is accountable for the strategy, maintenance, integrity, value for money and continuous improvement of DWP IT services and systems.

How did you get into IT?

Through work in the NHS supporting the transformation of how GP practices collect data and pass on into the NHS.

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

Through a clear understanding of what it means to have a diverse workforce and a concentration on education for the panels. Ensuring we are seen in the public domain as an open and DEI 'excited' organisation to work for.

Which technology are you currently most excited by?

The dawning of AI as a truly useful tool, rather than the hype of many years.

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

The level of people skills required to make stuff happen.

What's your secret talent?

Cataloguing records and books. I wonder if I should have been a librarian? I take great pleasure from being able to bring order to a vinyl collection or book collection.

What makes you laugh?

My children, when they are most amazed by something new they see, hear or eat. I love the face of discovery!