Steven Capper

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

Steven Capper is the Chief Digital Information Officer (CDIO) at Carnival UK, leading the company's digital and technology strategy. Named UK IT Leader of the Year 2023–24, Steven has a proven track record of driving large-scale transformation across global businesses. He is passionate about using technology to enhance customer experiences, improve operational efficiency, and enable sustainable growth.

At Carnival UK, Steven champions a dynamic digital agenda, combining strategic leadership with a deep understanding of emerging technologies to ensure innovation remains central to delivering exceptional cruise experiences.

What's the most exciting part of your current role?

The technology transformation currently underway holds significant potential to enhance the guest experience by leveraging cutting-edge solutions.

What do you consider your greatest IT achievement of the last 12 months?

Developing our business playbook and clear roadmap of implementation. Making a start on some highly complex projects.

What's the biggest challenge facing IT leaders today, and how are you tackling it?

Artificial intelligence remains in its early stages, with enormous untapped potential across industries. I recently completed a course at Oxford Saïd Business School, which reinforced my belief in the transformative power of AI. I strongly advocate for organisations and individuals to actively explore and experiment with AI technologies, considering now how they can fundamentally reshape their sectors.

What piece of technology could you not live without, and why?

My iPhone and annoying Apple Watch, I feel the need to wear it all the time and never wear my lovely regular watch!

What excites you most about the future of IT?

What excites me most about future technology is its ability to fundamentally transform how we live, work, and connect. Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, advanced data analytics and immersive digital experiences have the potential to unlock new levels of personalisation, efficiency, and sustainability.

I am particularly excited by how technology can drive meaningful change – enhancing customer experiences, creating new business models and solving some of society's most complex challenges.

What’s the strangest job you’ve ever had?

Working in the print room in my first job and taking old fashioned films to be developed. Also cooking the Friday lunchtime BBQ when I was an apprentice.

If you could instantly master one new skill, what would it be?

The art of teleportation to cut down on travel. Failing that, it's AI.