Richard Wiles appointed new Director of Data for News UK

8th February 2024: News UK today announces Richard Wiles as the new Director of Data for News UK. Richard will join the Technology Senior Leadership Team, and replaces Tom Jackson, who was recently appointed Chief Technology Officer across News UK.

In his new role, Richard will develop and lead the overall data strategy for technology and brands across News UK - including The Times, The Sunday Times, The Sun, and broadcasting brands including talkSPORT, Virgin Radio UK, TalkTV and Times Radio - as well as overseeing delivery of existing and new capabilities, including data products and AI. 

Leading a team of over 100, Richard will implement data governance and safety to ensure responsible use of data. He will work with News Corp’s global businesses to ensure the team aligns with, and responds to, relevant global priorities and contributes to the global community.

Richard was previously General Manager for Consumer Growth and Data at News Corp Australia, and has recently relocated to the UK. In his previous role, Richard ran News Corp Australia’s consumer data and data science teams, leading data, AI, consumer engagement marketing, operations and insights. Richard drove the first internal data science team, and led early AI efforts at the company.

Richard began his career in broadcast media, working for an Australian national broadcaster, and delivered some of the nations first digital media subscriptions as the General Manager of Digital at APN News & Media. 

Richard said: “At a time when data and AI are playing an increasingly important role in growing our business, and serving our audiences, I am thrilled with the opportunity to lead such a diverse and creative data team as we have here at News UK. 

“I have worked extensively in digital media for close to two decades. The opportunities presented by AI, to help grow and service our audience, are limitless; there could not be a more interesting time to be in the media industry.”

Tom Jackson, Chief Technology Officer, News UK, added: "Having previously run the Data team at News UK, I was naturally keen to find a safe pair of hands to look after what is a highly-talented and productive team. Richard was working on similar priorities to our own when he was in Australia, so he's absolutely the right person for the job."