HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has appointed Microsoft executive Jacky Wright as its new chief digital and information officer to “take forward its ambitious digital transformation agenda”.
Wright, who is currently the company’s corporate vice-president for core platform engineering, takes up her post on 16 October.
“Jacky well known in the industry as a senior executive who is a transformational global leader and innovative technologist,” said a statement from HMRC.
“[She]is notable in the wide range of recognitions she has received for her work in technology and diversity, both within and external to her work.
The appointment was formally ratified by the Prime Minister and is, said the statement, the result of an extensive recruitment exercise in which candidates were considered from across the Civil Service, the public and private sectors, and internationally.
HMRC chief executive, Jon Thompson said: “I’m delighted to welcome Jacky to HMRC as our new chief digital and information Oofficer. Jacky was an exceptional candidate and this appointment marks an exciting new phase for us as we continue towards our vision of becoming a world-class organisation.
“Jacky is a seasoned commercial leader with ‘best in class’ credentials, globally. Balancing strong operating experience with a record of driving innovation, Jacky is widely recognised for her contributions to technology and diversity.
“Her influence as a technology leader and as a champion for the role of women and BAME [black, asian, minority ethnic] in industry, is a major win for this organisation.”
Wright commented: “There could not be a better time in the history of technology to demonstrate the power of technology innovation at an organisation such as HMRC.
“I am passionate about the impact innovation can have in truly transforming services for people and businesses in a positive way and want to continue the great work being done within HMRC and across the Civil Service at this time.
“I am proud to represent women and BAME in technology and will continue to promote the vital role of diversity within our industry and more broadly.”
