Theo Blackwell MBE

Observer
DISC Type : ci

Local government collaboration sprint at Government Digital Service

London, England, United Kingdom

Overview

Theo Blackwell is Londons first Chief Digital Officer, where he leads digital transformation, data, and smart city initiatives. He concurrently advises the Government Digital Service on local government collaboration. His career has centered on public sector innovation, including his time as a Cabinet member for Finance, Technology & Growth in Camden and an Oxford education.

While his public profile is focused on his extensive career in government and technology, he has a notable background as the former Head of Policy for the UKs video games industry trade body. He has also been deeply involved in community projects, presenting awards to local initiatives that promote digital skills.

He was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his services to local government digital transformation.

Personality Overview

Assertive

Example Seeker

Value Driven

They are generally good communicators and can be hard to convince.  They ask a lot of questions and rely heavily on information and collaterals. They can sound friendly and charming but can quickly change gears to become inquisitive and probing.

Topics They Care About

Public Sector Digitalization
As London's first CDO, his entire career is focused on transforming public services through technology, data, and citizen-centered design.
Local Gov Collaboration
He is currently leading a sprint for the Government Digital Service (GDS) focused on improving collaboration and innovation between central and local government.
Smart City Innovation
He leads London's smart city initiatives and developed the 'Smarter London Together' roadmap to prepare the city for future technologies like AI.

Media Appearances

Theo has no verified media appearances

Work History

1-2025 - 12-2025
Local government collaboration sprint at Government Digital Service
9-2017
Chief Digital Officer for London at Mayor of London
1-2017 - 8-2017
Policy Fellow at Public.io
9-2017
Cabinet member for Finance, Technology & Growth at London Borough of Camden
Head of Policy and Public Affairs at Ukie - The Association for UK Interactive Entertainment

Education

1991 - 1994
B.A. from University of Oxford
1999 - 2000
Common Professional Exam from The University of Law

More Information

Social Presence :

Prographics :

Exp : 8 Location : London, England, United Kingdom Job Level : Leadership Designation : Local government collaboration sprint at Government Digital Service
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Insights For Selling To Theo

During A Call Or A Meeting

DO's

  • Use phrases like ‘clear proof that’, ‘data shows’ etc.
  • Invite them for a social do but don’t rely solely on the relationship
  • Help them realize that there is no personal risk in making this decision

DONT's

  • Don’t try to rush them into a decision, provide all necessary information first
  • Don’t brush off any concerns, take all questions seriously
  • Avoid making offhand commitments

When Cold Calling

When Writing An Email

While Negotiating & Closing

    The secret to closing fast with Theo is

  • Proven value, strong testimonials are important for them, rapport can impact decisions a little.
  • Will you ever get a clear answer from Theo

  • They are practical and friendly, don't expect a clear-cut response often.

Insights For Deal Planning

    How fast (or slow) will Theo move?

  • They like to be detailed and take their time to arrive at decisions.
  • Can Theo take some risk or not?

  • They weigh all decisions systematically and are unlikely to take many risks.

You And Theo

Personality Compatibility


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