Panel Profile: Hermes CIO Chris Ashworth
We get face-to-face with one of the IT Pro Panellists

If you're a senior IT decision-maker and you'd like to apply to be part of the IT Pro Panel, please email panel@itpro.co.uk
There are very few sectors that aren’t making use of technology to drive efficiency and growth, but the transport and logistics industry is perhaps the industry that can most benefit from new developments in the field.
Amazon’s fulfillment network has shown the massive impact that good IT can have on delivery networks, and technologies like machine learning and big data can play a huge role in helping companies to maximise the effectiveness of their drivers and warehouse staff.
Chris Ashworth, CIO of logistics specialist Hermes, has extensive experience in this sector; as well as spending more than three years as Thomas Cook’s Head of IT, he also helped run IT and operations for Yodel (then known as Home Delivery Network Ltd) for over half a decade. You might say that when it comes to effective IT strategy, Chris can deliver.
Chris Ashworth
CIO - Hermes
Describe your role in 20 words or fewer.
I'm the executive responsible for digital and business transformation, strategy, product development and e-commerce.
What was your first computer?
Get the ITPro daily newsletter
Sign up today and you will receive a free copy of our Future Focus 2025 report - the leading guidance on AI, cybersecurity and other IT challenges as per 700+ senior executives
I had the Sinclair ZX Spectrum, with the classic rubber keys!
What do you like most about working in IT?
I love the variety and being at the heart of the business.
If you could magically get rid of one piece of technology forever, what would it be, and why?
Mobile phones at meal time!
What future tech innovations are you most excited about?
I'm really looking forward to big data and what you can do with it.
Who’s your biggest inspiration in the world of tech?
All entrepreneurs who take the risk of starting their own company - I always make time for them.
If you're a senior IT decision-maker and you'd like to apply to be part of the IT Pro Panel, please email panel@itpro.co.uk
ITPro is a global business technology website providing the latest news, analysis, and business insight for IT decision-makers. Whether it's cyber security, cloud computing, IT infrastructure, or business strategy, we aim to equip leaders with the data they need to make informed IT investments.
For regular updates delivered to your inbox and social feeds, be sure to sign up to our daily newsletter and follow on us LinkedIn and Twitter.
-
Bigger salaries, more burnout: Is the CISO role in crisis?
In-depth CISOs are more stressed than ever before – but why is this and what can be done?
By Kate O'Flaherty Published
-
Cheap cyber crime kits can be bought on the dark web for less than $25
News Research from NordVPN shows phishing kits are now widely available on the dark web and via messaging apps like Telegram, and are often selling for less than $25.
By Emma Woollacott Published
-
Protecting CIOs' IT budgets is "paramount" in maintaining business growth
News If CIOs are forced to make emergency budget cuts, they should also explain the risks to high level stakeholders so the responsibility is shared
By Zach Marzouk Published
-
The IT Pro Podcast: Accelerating digital transformation
IT Pro Podcast Implementation is just as important as the value of change
By IT Pro Published
-
Podcast transcript: Accelerating digital transformation
IT Pro Podcast Read the full transcript for this episode of the IT Pro Podcast
By IT Pro Published
-
Fit-for-purpose IT infrastructure for digitally determined organisations
Whitepaper Your innovation engine: Guiding organisations through change in the new digital economy
By ITPro Published
-
IT Pro News in Review: CIOs face a challenge, Ofcom's telecom fines, Apple expands Xcode
Video Catch up on the biggest headlines of the week in just two minutes
By IT Pro Published
-
CIO role has 'drastically changed' over last 24 months, says Lenovo
News Globally survey suggests chief information officers have greater influence over their company now the role has expanded beyond technology
By Bobby Hellard Published
-
How can CIOs help to close the tech skills gap?
In-depth The most well-equipped IT leaders can take a number of practical steps to close the divide within their organisations
By Rene Millman Published
-
What is a virtual CIO (vCIO) and does your business need one?
In-depth With tech skills in short supply, organisations are turning to temporary expertise to see through critical digital transformation projects
By Mark Samuels Published