Chief Information Officer

Debbie leads the NHS ML’s Digital, Data and Technology directorate as well as being the board lead for Net Zero. She has worked in the public sector for more than 35 years, building extensive strategic, operational and programme management experience in both the NHS and local government. A passionate promoter of informatics as a key enabler in the delivery of strategic change, she has led the implementation of major information communications technology enabled change programmes at local, regional and national level within the NHS, and in local government.

Debbie has an established track record of working in partnership with NHS organisations, local authorities and commercial and third sector providers to effect change and deliver service improvement. She has significant experience of using technology innovatively to improve service delivery and realise operational efficiencies. In her role as deputy chief information officer for the North West Strategic Health Authority, Debbie was responsible for implementing and managing a range of strategic informatics initiatives across the region including the National Programme for Information Technology.

Debbie has a detailed understanding of operational service delivery. As director of client services at NHS North West, she was responsible for the development and delivery of care system support services to customers throughout Cheshire and Merseyside. Whilst working in local government Debbie implemented and managed information systems across a broad range of service areas, including adult social care, education and children’s services. She also led the implementation of the Authority’s Electronic Government Strategy which comprised of a portfolio of projects including; web development, applications & data integration, electronic service delivery and channel development.

Debbie has undertaken the role of programme director for a number of initiatives, including the NHS England Intelligence for Commissioners Programme. She also co-led the establishment of the North West Informatics Skills Development Network, a regional workforce development programme for health informatics staff, which was the first of its kind in the country.