The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced the appointment of former NHS and Boots technology leader Richard Corbridge as its new Chief Digital and Information Officer (CDIO). Corbridge begins his new role today, replacing Simon McKinnon, who declared his intention to retire last year.
The CDIO position, which was advertised with a £200,000 annual salary, entails leading a workforce of approximately 4,500 digital, data, and technology professionals. Additionally, Corbridge will be responsible for managing a yearly IT budget of £1.4 billion and overseeing a tech estate that includes 90,000 computers.
Before joining the DWP, Corbridge held senior roles at Boots, a leading high-street pharmacy chain, for four years. His previous experience also includes positions at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust and the Health Service Executive, Ireland's national healthcare system.
In a statement, Corbridge expressed enthusiasm about his new role, saying, "I'm thrilled to be joining DWP, an amazing organisation that is on an exciting digital journey. The next few years will bring fresh digital challenges and innovative developments, and I relish the chance to be at the DWP Digital helm."
In the coming months, Corbridge's primary focus will be on shaping the DWP's digitalisation strategy. He will ensure the proper design, use, and integration of processes and technologies while building sustainable digital capabilities throughout the department.
DWP Permanent Secretary Peter Schofield welcomed Corbridge, stating, "I am delighted to appoint Rich Corbridge as our new Chief Digital and Information Officer. Rich has extensive experience in leading major digital transformation projects in retail and the public sector. He has held several senior information and digital technology positions, including roles at Boots, Leeds NHS Trust, eHealth Ireland, and the National Institute for Health Research."
