Smart Data Foundry has confirmed that Dougie Robb is to become its permanent CEO.
Robb has been interim chief executive and Chief Financial Officer of the financial data specialist since April last year
“Dougie has more than demonstrated that he is the right person to lead Smart Data Foundry into the next phase of expansion and I am confident that under his leadership Smart Data Foundry will become even more of a force to be reckoned with, not just in the UK but internationally,” said Dame Julia Unwin, Chair of Smart Data Foundry.
“We have the potential to make a major impact on some of society’s biggest challenges, and the skills, capability and determination to deliver.”
The organisation was set up to “open financial data for good “ and established a dedicated data science and technology team to support that vision. That’s seen it secure data sharing agreements with likes of NatWest Group and Sage UK.
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As interim CEO, Robb played a key role in overseeing its move to Edinburgh Futures Institute and co-leading a successful bid with the University of Edinburgh for £3m funding from Smart Data Research UK to set up a new Financial Data Service (FINDS).
“Being appointed to lead Smart Data Foundry is a real honour. I’m fortunate to work with such a committed and passionate team, who are all dedicated to using their expertise to make a lasting impact on people’s lives. By delivering unparalleled financial insights, we aim to help policymakers more effectively tackle poverty and inequality, ensuring support reaches those who need it most,” added Robb.
“This is an especially exciting time for the organisation as we embark on a new chapter with the launch of the Financial Data Service. As part of a network of six data centres across the UK, we will be working together to position the nation as a global leader in smart data research and innovation.
“We are also close to unveiling our new Economic Wellbeing Explorer, a research tool that will offer valuable, real-time insights into the financial health of the nation by analysing anonymised data from 5.3 million consumer bank accounts.”
Work from Smart Data Foundry includes a Cost-of-Living Dashboard for East Renfrewshire Council, which uses near real-time, de-identified data from NatWest Group. It’s also worked with Sage UK and cebr, using Sage UK small business productivity data to produce insights on how small businesses in the UK are faring in the current economic climate.
