BT appoints new public sector director in Wales

Samantha Toombs will lead BT’s local government and health business in Wales as part of an increased investment in the nation, as well as chairing the BT Group board in Wales.

Working as public sector director in BT’s Enterprise division in Wales, Samantha’s focus will be on building relationships and driving business with local authorities, health boards, universities and colleges, emergency services and other public sector organisations.

As chair of the BT Group board in Wales – which brings together senior leaders from across BT’s business – her focus, and that of the board, will be on supporting BT’s customers and helping the country become one of the most digitally connected nations. She is the first woman to chair the BT board in Wales.

Samantha said that, in her role as director of public sector, she wants to highlight how using the latest technology across our public services can help transform and improve the lives of Welsh citizens.

Commenting on the role, she said: “I’m looking forward to working with colleagues to help us become a digital nation. There are big and exciting technological developments taking place at the moment, and it’s vital that Wales is ready to adapt and take advantage of these changes.

“The internet and technology have changed the way we now live and work. The number of devices connected to the internet, in our homes and workplaces, has increased massively in recent years, and this is set to rise further. While this change will present challenges for businesses and public bodies in Wales, it will also offer opportunities. Using the latest digital technology will allow people in the public sector to work more efficiently, and help them to protect and improve the lives of Welsh citizens.

“BT is at the forefront of developing cutting edge technologies to meet future digital citizen demands and services. I’m proud that many of these technologies are being developed and implemented in Wales. With a large presence in all corners of Wales and one of the nation’s largest private sector employers and investors, BT Group now directly employs 4,400 people in Wales and spends £300m with Welsh suppliers.”