We are delighted to announce that Anna Ashton Scott has been appointed Head of Skills, following five years of leading the Data Skills for Work and the wider Professional Development programmes.
Anna joined The Data Lab in 2019, initially leading the £1.2 million Data Skills for Work Programme, which supports workers to adapt to the demands of an increasingly digitalised, automated and data-driven workplace. The programme recently celebrated upskilling 1,000 people in data in the Edinburgh City and Tay Cities Regions.
Since 2021, Anna has also combined this with leading The Data Lab’s Professional Development portfolio, implementing programmes of online learning, leadership training, and continuing professional development.
She steps into the Head of Skills role with immediate effect, where she will lead The Data Lab’s data and AI skills programme, which supports organisations to develop data strategies, consider the impact and potential of AI, build teams and access and retain talent in today’s rapidly changing world of work.
Anna Ashton Scott, Head of Skills at The Data Lab, said:
“I’m thrilled to step into this role at such an exciting time in The Data Lab’s development as part of Scotland’s Innovation Infrastructure. I’m proud of our achievements over the past 10 years cultivating talent and driving innovation through skills and education.
“With rapid technological advancement widening skills gaps, fostering data and AI literacy, along with robust technical education and leadership training, is as crucial as ever. I’m looking forward to working with the team, our partners, stakeholders and community to help empower people and organisations to navigate the evolving landscape.”