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Chris Davidson
Head Of Strategy, Architecture and Engineering at STW - CTO - Agile - SAFe - Business Planning - DevOps -
Professional Background
Chris Davidson is a dynamic and accomplished professional with a proven track record of over 15 years in the Technology sector. With a wealth of experience in coaching individuals and managing teams, Chris has successfully navigated challenging situations, especially in the context of strategic direction and mergers. His last five years have seen a significant focus on delivering complex mergers, setting up strategic initiatives, and driving innovation within various teams.
Currently, Chris holds the position of Head of Strategy, Architecture, and Engineering - CTO at Severn Trent, where he is responsible for the overarching Technology strategy. He produces a rolling 5-year business plan that identifies emerging innovation and data trends, ensuring that technology aligns with the organization's long-term goals. His responsibilities also include leading the development of a cloud center of excellence and a robust DevOps capability, reflecting his commitment to modern technology principles and agile project management.
Chris’s expertise does not stop there; he also deputizes for the Chief Information Officer (CIO) throughout various periods during the year, overseeing the full technology department and ensuring that all initiatives run smoothly and effectively. His authoritative insight into technology strategy and operations has made him a key asset in driving Severn Trent's technological advancement and operational efficiency.
Education and Achievements
Chris commenced his educational journey at Light Hall School and later advanced his studies at Solihull Sixth Form College, where he focused on Sport Science. This foundational education laid the groundwork for his analytical thinking and problem-solving skills, qualities that have greatly benefited his career in the technology industry.
Throughout his career, Chris has held numerous pivotal positions at Severn Trent, showcasing his growth and expertise within the organization. He has served in progressively responsible roles ranging from IS Field Engineer all the way to the Head of Strategy, Architecture, and Engineering. His versatility across various functions within the organization underscores his in-depth understanding of both technical and managerial facets of the business.
In addition to a fantastic career trajectory, Chris advocates for several cutting-edge methodologies and frameworks, such as SaFe Agile, Innovation, Cloud, and DevOps. His focus on people development is evident in his coaching approach, empowering team members and fostering an environment that encourages continuous learning and adaptability.
Achievements
Chris Davidson’s achievements are several and notable, particularly in the realm of technology management and strategic development. As an innovative force at Severn Trent, he has played a crucial role in building a cloud center of excellence, which has significantly improved the organization's technical capabilities and operational agility. This initiative has positioned Severn Trent as an organization that embraces modern technologies, thereby enhancing service delivery and efficiency across its operations.
Moreover, Chris’s involvement in developing a DevOps capability has allowed teams to optimize their workflows, reducing time to market for technology solutions and improving collaboration between operations and services teams. His decision to advocate for SaFe Agile methodologies represents a commitment to enhancing efficiency, improving product delivery timelines, and ensuring that the teams align with broader business objectives.
Chris's role as a Deputy to the CIO has further elevated his reputation as a multisector leader capable of making informed, strategic decisions that positively impact the organization. His collaborative style and dedication to improvement ensure that he contributes meaningfully to team dynamics and project successes.
In summary, Chris Davidson's professional trajectory demonstrates a deep commitment to technological innovation, team development, and strategic leadership. As he continues to shape the future of technology at Severn Trent, his ability to navigate challenges, build high-performing teams, and implement successful strategies marks him as a standout leader in the industry.
