Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity has appointed Richard Grove as its first chief technology officer. 

The charity said Grove, who has spent the past 10 months as managing director of the AI consultancy Pivotl, had more than 20 years’ experience in digital, AI and data. 

It said he would join its senior leadership team and be responsible for identifying opportunities for technological advances, including exploring the potential of data and AI-enabled services, and leading on the integration of emerging technologies to boost the charity’s productivity.

Grove has also spent seven years as director of digital at the consultancy Caution Your Blast, where he had spells working for organisations including the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, the Cabinet Office and Ikea. 

He said he had long admired the charity for its work. 

“In this role, I am eager to harness the latest digital technology and data and explore how AI can further enable the charity to raise funds for Gosh’s most urgent needs. 

“It’s a privilege to be joining the team at such a pivotal moment, with the charity in the midst of its biggest-ever fundraising appeal to help build the new, world-leading children’s cancer centre at the hospital.  

“I look forward to seeing how we can do even more with digital technology as we go above and beyond for the children and families who come to Gosh every day for lifesaving treatment.” 

Louise Parkes, chief executive of Gosh, said: “With an impressive background in digital transformation, Richard will play a crucial role in developing the charity’s ambitions in technology, data and AI as we work towards the creation of our new organisational strategy.

“From our ‘Build it. Beat it.’ appeal to our refreshed brand identity, it is a really exciting time for Gosh Charity, and Richard’s passion and expertise will ensure we can continue on our mission to give seriously ill children the best chance, and childhood, possible.”