Panel Profile: Hermes CIO Chris Ashworth

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If you're a senior IT decision-maker and you'd like to apply to be part of the IT Pro Panel, please email panel@itpro.co.uk

There are very few sectors that aren’t making use of technology to drive efficiency and growth, but the transport and logistics industry is perhaps the industry that can most benefit from new developments in the field.

Amazon’s fulfillment network has shown the massive impact that good IT can have on delivery networks, and technologies like machine learning and big data can play a huge role in helping companies to maximise the effectiveness of their drivers and warehouse staff.

Chris Ashworth, CIO of logistics specialist Hermes, has extensive experience in this sector; as well as spending more than three years as Thomas Cook’s Head of IT, he also helped run IT and operations for Yodel (then known as Home Delivery Network Ltd) for over half a decade. You might say that when it comes to effective IT strategy, Chris can deliver.

Chris Ashworth

CIO - Hermes

Describe your role in 20 words or fewer.

I'm the executive responsible for digital and business transformation, strategy, product development and e-commerce.

What was your first computer?

I had the Sinclair ZX Spectrum, with the classic rubber keys!

What do you like most about working in IT?

I love the variety and being at the heart of the business.

If you could magically get rid of one piece of technology forever, what would it be, and why?

Mobile phones at meal time!

What future tech innovations are you most excited about?

I'm really looking forward to big data and what you can do with it.

Who’s your biggest inspiration in the world of tech?

All entrepreneurs who take the risk of starting their own company - I always make time for them.

If you're a senior IT decision-maker and you'd like to apply to be part of the IT Pro Panel, please email panel@itpro.co.uk

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