Daemon appoints former Sainsbury’s CTO Richard Newsome to Non-Executive Chairman role

Richard Newsome, ex-Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Sainsbury’s, has been appointed to the role of Non-Executive Chairman at digital transformation consultancy Daemon.

Newsome previously worked with the company while still at Sainsbury’s, where Daemon provided technical expertise and support on complex business challenges. Since then, he has continued to work with Daemon, providing insight on the voice of the customer and helping to shape the delivery of its work.

Daemon says Newsome, who has also previously served as CTO at Cancer Research, will now look to support its growth and work in the retail sector, while expanding its footprint into financial services and the public sector.

The consultancy claims banks and financial institutions are increasingly looking to the retail sector for inspiration in creating seamless digital experiences and says it is well placed to support them in this aim.

“Having someone who was a client join us to chair the board is incredibly valuable for our business,” comment Daemon Co-founders Steve Bennett and Calum Fitzgerald. “Richard understands what we do, what our competitors do, and, most importantly, why our approach works. His role will be key as we set out our next phase of growth where we retain the agility and expertise that have made us a leader in digital transformation.”

Newsome adds: “I feel a deep sense of connection with Daemon, from the leadership team to the mission and the work. I have always admired their technical excellence and ability to apply it to complex business challenges. This isn’t just another role for me; it’s an opportunity to work with people I respect and to contribute to something I truly believe in.

“Daemon’s ability to deliver, time and again, is what  drew me in initially, and I’m excited to be part of shaping its future."

Last year, Daemon released research showing many consumers still value human interaction at the checkout, with 60% of UK consumers preferring traditional checkouts over self-service or scan and go options.

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Digital transformation will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards. which will open for entries in April, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.