Jonny Wathen

CIO and Founding Director, TransforMATive

An experienced multi academy trust executive, Chief Information Officer (CIO) and Data Protection Officer (DPO) who has successfully delivered a trust-wide digital transformation in a large, complex and rapidly growing trust. Jonny has completed an Executive MBA programme achieving Chartered Manager status via the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). His innovative applied research project explored the potential for digital transformation through business model innovation within multi academy trusts. As an active CIO Net member, Jonny networks with ambitious digital leaders and businesses from across the globe. A recognised thought leader on digital transformation, Jonny also speaks at conferences and shares insights via roundtables and panel discussions both within and beyond the education sector. As a former teacher and head of learning, Jonny has a passion for technology enhanced learning approaches. He has contributed to a range of further and higher education digital projects including an online massive online open course (MOOC), ‘Blended Learning Essentials’, in collaboration with UCL and the University of Leeds. Other projects included contributing to programmes such as the Technology Exemplar Network (BECTA), MoleNet (LSN), Regional Sustainability Event and Resource Utilisation Network (LSIS).

Laying strong foundations

1 Workshop series one

Leading digital transformation within constraints: Two perspectives - lean structures and blending ideas

This panel discussion explores two different approaches to digital transformation in trusts operating under significant real-world constraints. One perspective focuses on phased implementation within lean structures and limited budgets; the other on preparing to bring together two very different digital ecosystems through merger. We will examine practical approaches to sequencing decisions, building buy-in, governance, infrastructure readiness and avoiding technology-led implementation. The session will offer grounded insight into balancing ambition with operational reality in different trust contexts.

09:35

1 Main programme

Keynote: Leading through uncertainty: AI, judgement and decision-making in education

As AI and data rapidly reshape education, the challenge for leaders is not just what to adopt, but how to think and decide in uncertain conditions. In this keynote, Madiha helps leaders make sense of the current moment, drawing on her work across the edtech sector in the UK and internationally. Shaping bold, ambitious ideas into grounded sense-making and practical action, she explores how the market is evolving, where evidence remains limited, and how to make proportionate, well-judged decisions. Focusing on leadership judgement over tools, she offers practical ways to evaluate choices, set boundaries, and communicate decisions clearly.