NAD Group appoints Dan Rodenhurst as Chief Digital and Information Officer

Dan Rodenhurst has been appointed as the new Chief Digital and Information Officer (CDIO), leading all of the UK Ministry of Defence’s digital and data teams.

In this role Dan will lead delivery of the digital, data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) ambitions set out in the Defence Investment Plan. This includes maximising a £5.5 billion investment into the MoD’s ‘Digital Backbone’, £1.8 billion into the digital targeting web and over £200 million into AI capabilities.

Joining Defence with more than 25 years’ experience across the security and defence sector, Dan led large-scale technology, cloud and digital transformation programmes in both the public and private sectors, including teams delivering technical operations, classified cloud, AI platforms and multi-agency services in mission-critical environments.

AI, cyber and digital integration driven by the Defence Investment Plan

Soon to be leading Defence’s digital and data teams, he will be responsible for ensuring a coherent approach to data, AI and digital integration across UK Defence. This includes using the major investments provided by the DIP to strengthen Defence’s digital foundations and enhance operational effectiveness, such as the £100 million investment to support Project FRONTIER AI – providing an enduring route for decision-support applications across Defence.

Dan’s AI teams will also be at the technological spearhead in developing the Defence AI Centre (DAIC) and Taskforce RAID. The DAIC, set up as the MoD’s centre for AI delivery, is complemented by the mobilisation of Taskforce RAID, which aims to effect genuine change and battlefield advantage for the warfighter on the ground.

In September, Dan will become a Director General within the National Armaments Director (NAD) Group – the area of Defence responsible for developing, delivering, sustaining, housing and harbouring the UK’s national arsenal and defence estate. As such, he will lead more than 3,000 digital, data, cyber and technology specialists across Defence.

Modernising digital defence capabilities and delivering on the Strategic Defence Review

National Armaments Director Rupert Pearce said: “I am delighted to welcome Dan into the NAD Group as the MoD’s new Chief Digital and Information Officer. He brings exceptional experience in leading large-scale digital transformation and will play a pivotal role in shaping how we harness digital, data and AI to deliver system efficiencies and military advantage.

“With the launch of the Defence Investment Plan, this is a vital leadership role at an important moment for Defence. I know Dan will help strengthen partnerships across Defence, government and industry as we continue to modernise our digital capabilities and deliver the ambitions of the Strategic Defence Review.”

As a member of the Defence Executive Committee, Dan will also work with the most senior leaders across Defence to provide advice and recommendations on digital and data capability.

Dan Rodenhurst, CDIO designate, said: “I am honoured to be joining Defence as Chief Digital and Information Officer at such an important time. AI, digital and data will be at the heart of how Defence operates, enabling better operations, faster decisions and greater resilience.

“I look forward to working with colleagues across Defence, government and industry to maximise the value of the Defence Investment Plan and deliver capabilities that make a real difference.

Dan succeeds Charles Forte, who retired as the Defence CDIO in June after eight years in post. Claire Fry was appointed interim CDIO in June and will continue until Dan takes up the role in September.