UK National Lottery operator Allwyn has announced the appointment of Adrian Joseph OBE as Independent Non-Executive Director, effective 1 June 2024.

Adrian is an innovative digital, technology, data and AI-focused senior executive and FTSE Non-Executive Director who has worked for a number of leading technology organisations – most recently as Chief Data and AI Officer at BT, where he led a 1600-strong team.

Adrian is currently a Non-Executive Director at Direct Line Group, on the Technology Advisory Board of NatWest Group and an Advisory Board Member at Business in the Community. Adrian was awarded an OBE in the 2019 New Year’s Honours List for services to equality and diversity in business, and was also voted the most influential minority ethnic technology leader in the UK by the Financial Times in 2018.

Prior to BT, Adrian spent over a decade working in a variety of senior data, analytics and AI roles for Google and EY. He was also previously a Non-Executive Director to the Home Office and Cabinet Office People Board, as well as an Expert Member of the UK AI Council.

Justin King, Chair of Allwyn UK, said: “With his proven track record across digital, data and AI – paired with his trailblazing work in the areas of diversity and inclusion – I am delighted to welcome Adrian to the Allwyn Board. Adrian’s distinctive skillset and experience will be invaluable as we work to fulfil our ambition to provide a player experience and games portfolio that is fit for the digital era, while at the same time creating a truly accessible, inclusive National Lottery.”

Adrian Joseph said: “I’m thrilled to be joining Allwyn at such an exciting time for the organisation. With an average of £30 million raised each week for people and projects across the UK, The National Lottery is truly a force for good. I look forward to working with Justin and the Board to bring this to life, while continually raising the bar on innovation, equality and diversity.”