DSO appoints CEO, launches pilot project

The Digital Skills Organisation (DSO) has appointed Patrick Kidd, OBE OAM, as Chief Executive Officer. Kidd will lead the DSO as it aims to improve digital skills training in the VET system and provide an innovative approach to training and employing people in digital skills in Australia.

The DSO is collaborating with state and territory governments, industry and small business, peak bodies and the training sector to develop, test and evaluate new approaches to digital skills training and getting people into digital jobs. The DSO is an initiative led by the Department of Education, Skills and Employment as part of the Delivering Skills for Today and Tomorrow package.

Kidd’s appointment coincides with the DSO’s first pilot project to train and employ one hundred data analysts. As part of this project, a number of bidders are participating in a competitive pitch process to produce a range of innovative training solutions, funded by the DSO. The winners will be announced in November 2020.

“I am extremely proud to be joining the DSO team at this time when the government is putting so much attention into evolving the vocational education and training system. Within the digital skills sector never has the need been greater to get people with the relevant skills into work. What a great opportunity to collaborate with government, training providers, industry and small businesses to trial innovative approaches to showcase how the current system can be improved,” Kidd said.

Kidd brings substantial experience in training and digital transformation. Previously, he worked in support of Infosys as the Programme Director, implementing a large-scale digital transformation program into the federal government.

Prior to that, Kidd worked with Deloitte Australia Consulting. During this time, he was seconded to the role of Chief Executive Officer for the Invictus Games Sydney, where he led the Australian team that planned and delivered the 2018 Games. Kidd’s experience in training was bolstered over a 30-year career in the British Army (1985–2005) and the Australian Defence Force (2005–2015).

Yasmin Allen, Chairman at DSO, welcomed Kidd as its new Chief Executive Officer, noting that the appointment was an important milestone for the DSO. Allen added that the Board will work with Kidd to align industry with the training sector for better employment outcomes in digital roles across all industries.

“Digital skills and employment will play a critical role in Australia’s recovery from the pandemic-induced recession. Patrick’s impressive track record in leading a diverse range of complex projects, in commercial, not for profit, government and military environments, gives the Board confidence that he will lead the DSO to success in getting people into work, with the right skills, as quickly as possible,” Allen said.

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