DSO says Patrick Kidd OBE OAM has been appointed to lead the organisation as it aims to improve digital skills training in the VET system and provide an “innovative and world leading approach” to training and employing people in digital skills in Australia.

Kidd’s appointment coincides with the DSO’s first pilot project to train and employ 100 data analysts.

As part of the Train 100 Data Analyst Project, a number of bidders are currently participating in a competitive pitch process, to produce a range of innovative training solutions that will be funded by the DSO. The winners will be announced in November 2020.

The DSO says Kidd brings to the organisation substantial experience in training and digital transformation, and in his previous role he worked in support of Infosys as the Programme Director implementing a large scale digital transformation program into the Federal Government.

Prior to that Kidd worked with Deloitte Australia Consulting. During this period, he was seconded to the role of Chief Executive Officer for the Invictus Games Sydney where he led the Australian team that planned and delivered the 2018 Games.

Kidd’s expertise in training was further developed over a 30 year career in the British Army (1985-2005) and the Australian Defence Force (2005-2015).

“I am extremely proud to be joining the DSO team at this time when the Government is putting so much attention into evolving the vocational education and training system,” Kidd said.

“Within the digital skills sector never has the need been greater to get people with the relevant skills into work.

“What a great opportunity to collaborate with Government, training providers, industry and small businesses to trial innovative approaches to showcase how the current system can be improved.”

Yasmin Allen, Chairman at Digital Skills Organisation said: “We are excited to welcome Patrick Kidd as our new chief executive officer at the Digital Skills Organisation. This appointment is an important milestone for the DSO, and the Board is looking forward to working with Patrick to deliver on our mission to align industry with the training sector for better employment outcomes in digital roles across all industries.

“Digital skills and employment will play a critical role in Australia’s recovery from the pandemic induced recession. Patrick’s impressive track record in leading a diverse range of complex projects, in commercial, not for profit, Government and military environments gives the Board confidence that he will lead the DSO to success in getting people into work, with the right skills, as quickly as possible.”