UCAS appoints Aaron Powell as Chief Technology Officer

UCAS has appointed Aaron Powell to the to the newly-created role of Chief Technology Officer.

Powell will lead the digital transformation of the higher education admissions service. His responsibilities include accelerating programme delivery, helping to create a stronger and more sustainable digital business, delivering value to customers, and supporting the charity’s Future Focus strategy.

The 2018 CIO 100 high-flyer joins UCAS from NHS Blood and Transplant, where he spent nine years in a variety of roles, culminating in a three-year stint as Chief Digital Officer.

His achievements at the organisation include creating a cloud-based organ donation and transplantation hub, launching a patient registration portal that clinicians can use as a real-time transplant waiting list, and automating communications with blood donors.

“I’m really excited to be joining UCAS at such an important time, leading the team to provide students, advisers, universities, and colleges, with accessible, responsive, and trusted digital admissions services,” said Powell, who will start his new job in the winter.

“In my current role, I’ve been privileged to deliver digital services that save and improve lives. I’m looking forward to working with everyone at UCAS to provide equally innovative and transformative services, helping students through an admissions journey that will impact the rest of their lives.”

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