David Hill will join the University in April 2025.
David Hill has been appointed as the University’s new Chief Information Officer and Director of University Information Services (UIS). He will take up the role in April this year.
David has been Chief Digital Officer at the University of Nottingham since 2017, where he has overseen a significant period of digital transformation. He brings around 25 years’ experience leading digital services in the private and public sector, including as Director of Digital Services at University College London Hospitals.
A new role
In the new role of Chief Information Officer and Director of UIS, David will report directly to the Vice-Chancellor and work closely with the Registrary and the Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Resources and Operations, on a day-to-day basis. He will be responsible for digital, technical and information services across the University, as well as leading and managing UIS. David’s initial priorities will include strengthening the University’s resilience to cyber security risks, modernising core business systems and developing the essential IT services that support teaching, learning and research.
David said: “It’s a real privilege to be joining such an iconic institution at a time when digital and technology are playing an increasingly pivotal role in the evolution of higher education. I’m excited to work together with colleagues to innovate, collaborate, and drive transformational change across the University's digital services and infrastructure.”
Vice-Chancellor Professor Deborah Prentice said: “David joins the University at a critical time as we work to modernise our IT infrastructure and develop the digital services that are crucial to our academic mission. His technical expertise and leadership skills will be a great asset to the University in the years ahead.”
The Vice-Chancellor added: “I would also like to thank Chris Russell for his excellent leadership as Interim Director of UIS. Chris has made a huge contribution to the University during his time in the role, and he will continue to do so as Chief Operating Officer in UIS.”
David's career to date
David is a Chartered Information Systems Professional (BSc Hons, CEng, CITP, FBCS) with over 25 years’ experience leading digital services in the private and public sector.
He began his career as a software engineer with the Natural Environment Research Council and the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, before moving into healthcare with a small, owner-led business specialising in prosthetics and orthotics.
David has extensive experience in enterprise computing, applying his expertise in both the NHS and higher education while collaborating with a diverse range of partners. He played a key role in shaping the digital strategy at University College London Hospitals, where he led the delivery of business, clinical, and safety-critical systems across 6 central London hospitals.
Most recently, David has been Chief Digital Officer at the University of Nottingham since 2017, where he has overseen a significant period of digital transformation.