Mivy James

Part of the IT Leaders 100 - a list of the most influential IT leaders in the UK in 2025.

Mivy James is an accomplished technology leader with more than 30 years of experience in IT, spanning software development, architecture, consulting and large-scale digital transformation. Currently Chief Technology Officer for the Ministry of Defence, she leads efforts to modernise digital capabilities across the MoD, focusing on operational resilience, innovation at the edge and tackling technology obsolescence.

Mivy took on her first senior roles at BAE Systems, including Digital Transformation Director and Head of Consulting for UK Government. She has advised on multi-billion-pound public sector programmes, balancing cutting-edge research with strategic delivery. Mivy is also a passionate advocate for gender equity in tech and founded BAE Systems’ gender balance network.

Her current priorities include driving forward the Defence Digital Backbone, improving operational capabilities in degraded connectivity environments, and enhancing collaboration across allied ecosystems such as NATO and AUKUS.

Outside of work, Mivy enjoys travel and outdoor sports.