Jonny Wathen

I started my career as a PE teacher, before moving into leadership and serving as a CIO in a multi-academy trust. That journey from the sports hall to the boardroom has shaped how I see data and technology: they only matter if they improve real experiences for staff and students.

I’m driven by the power of relational practice and working with people. Technology enablement should strengthen connection, communication, and collaboration, not replace them. My work has focused on building data strategy, digital infrastructure, and governance that help organisations make better decisions while reducing friction and workload.

I now work as CEO of TransforMATive, an education sector technology consultancy providing system leadership across data and digital. We support trusts and schools to think strategically about their digital ecosystems and use data in ways that are responsible, practical, and people-centred.

EduDATA matters because the sector needs thoughtful, grounded conversations about how we use data well. When designed around people, data and technology can be a powerful force for positive change.