Ruth Harrison

As Global Head of Industry Domains for Thoughtworks, Ruth is a go-to commentator on the evolving technology and business landscape and its influence on digital transformation. She is considered a specialist in company turn around/ brand building, accelerated growth strategies and business transformation including strategic trading models, operational excellence and change. Working with world leading commercial organisations, academic institutions and governments, she is an experienced board level executive (past roles includes CEO/ COO/ CMO/ VP with full P&L responsibility) and current serving board advisor to Dynamo North East and council member of the UK CBI (Confederation of British Industry). 

Ruth is a sought after keynote speaker: on women in technology leadership and business. As a recognised champion of diversity and inclusion in business;!in 2023 she was appointed UK Chair of WEF Corporate Boards practice leading change and accountability in business leadership across U.K. industry. She advises organisations on DE&I policies, practices and accelerator strategies. Industry recognition includes: 2017 nominated Diversity Leader of The Year by Tech Leaders UK, 2018 BIMA top 100 UK Digital Leaders. She was recognised in the Northern Power Women’s Top 50 Power List 2018/19/20. Acquisitions International recognised her as Most Influential Global Business Tech Consultant 2021 and Best Industry Innovation Specialist 2022. Media commentary and coverage includes BBC Sunday Politics, The Business Debate, WSJ, Sydney Morning Herald, The NE Times, Daily Telegraph, MarketWatch, WGSN, Essential Retail/ Essential eCommerce as a former columnist for PURE/ Business / SPC magazine.

She is a passionate UK Tech North advocate, pro bono work includes time dedicated to Inspire the Future UK charity, mentoring young women into business and STEM careers. In 2019 she founded Limitless a members only forum for women executives and in 2022 she founded www.onedigitalcollective.com a community impact initiative accelerating digital skills in the North East UK. She has worked in London, New York, South Asia and across EMEA region. Ruth holds an Exec MBA from Stirling University UK.