Khawar Hameed has a long-standing and deep association with computing in Staffordshire. He joined Staffordshire Polytechnic in 1987 reading Information Systems in the Department of Computing at Blackheath Lane in Stafford. This was followed by a 26-year career at Staffordshire University developing, managing, and teaching undergraduate & postgraduate computing courses. He was key in developing, securing, implementing, and co-leading large-scale technology projects that spanned the academic-industry spectrum. He currently works a Management Consultant in Digital Transformation based in Stafford and is Visiting Professor of Digital Transformation at Birmingham City University. He is a Fellow of the British Computer Society, and a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

Khawar says, “We are accelerating rapidly into a hyperconnected world that will be rich with disruptive digital products, service, and technology innovations that meet the needs of future society. I am intent on seeing Staffordshire, as a region, being part of this and becoming a key player in the UK digital ecosystem, and for it to develop as a place and beacon of digital excellence with a vibrant digital/tech community of practice.”