Project Youth appoints Chief Information and Technology Officer

Albert King has joined Project Youth as Chief Information and Technology Officer and will lead the organisation’s strategy for data management, information security and compliance.

Albert has more than 20 years of experience in data and technology and is a strong advocate for using data to support people and services. He joins AHS from Public Services Delivery Scotland, where – as Chief Data Officer – he led Scotland’s national data service for health and care. Before that, he led the Scottish Government’s Data Division and played a key part in creating Scotland’s first Artificial Intelligence Strategy.

“I’m delighted to be joining Project Youth at such a pivotal stage,” he said. “Throughout my career I’ve been driven by the opportunity to turn data from a passive resource into an active asset that delivers real public value.

“The Study’s ambition is to transform our understanding of young people’s development, health and wellbeing through a large population-based health research resource, which aligns strongly with my values. I’m excited to contribute to an initiative where the impact will be both meaningful and visible.”

Managing data securely and responsibly

As Chief Information and Technology Officer, Albert will play a critical role in delivering the organisation’s data and technology needs. A prime focus will be on ensuring the security, confidentiality and integrity of AHS data.  

Albert will lead the creation of a secure and trusted system for storing sensitive and complex data from young people who volunteer to take part in the study. This will include ensuring privacy and compliance with regulations, mitigating cybersecurity risks, and enabling effective and secure access for the research community.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Albert to the team,” said Professor Cathie Sudlow, Executive Director. “He will play a vital role in shaping the digital and data infrastructure needed to deliver one of the UK’s most ambitious health research programmes.

“Young people and their families will rightly expect us to manage their data in the most secure and responsible manner possible. Albert’s role will be essential for building and maintaining trust in our study and for delivering a research resource that will have a long-term impact on the health and wellbeing of future generations of young people.

“Albert comes with a wealth of experience in strategic leadership on technology and information security and we look forward to working with him to ensure our systems are robust, scalable and fit for purpose.”