Liverpool City Region has appointed Tiffany St James as its first Chief AI Officer, the first such role in UK regional government. The city region covers six local authorities and a population of more than 1.5 million. It manages public services, transport, housing, and economic development.
The Chief AI Officer will lead a new AI task force responsible for health, transport, and education. The task force will oversee AI initiatives to ensure they are applied responsibly and deliver measurable results.
Mayor Steve Rotheram said, “Artificial intelligence is a transformative tool for public services and economic growth. We need leadership to ensure these technologies deliver clear benefits for all communities.” The role provides central guidance for AI integration across service planning, operations, and policy development.
Leadership in Digital Transformation
Tiffany St James brings extensive experience in digital governance and public sector technology. She co-founded the consultancy Transmute and is a member of the Global AI Council. Early in her career, she contributed to the creation of DATA.GOV.UK with Sir Tim Berners-Lee, the inventor of the World Wide Web.
She has advised government agencies and organizations, including the BBC, Channel 4, and Google. Her work has focused on ethical use of technology, data strategy, and digital service design. On her appointment, St James said: “This role provides the opportunity to apply technology to public services in ways that benefit communities across the Liverpool City Region.”
Taskforce and Regional Priorities
The AI task force will focus on ethical deployment, operational efficiency, and measurable outcomes. It will coordinate projects across health, transport, and education, providing guidance, reviewing performance, and advising on public policy.
Mayor Rotheram said, “Artificial Intelligence has the potential to be one of the defining technologies of our age – but only if it’s harnessed in the right way. That’s why we’re putting a clear focus on using it as a force for good – to improve public services, support our communities, and grow our economy.”
Supporting Innovation and Jobs
The Liverpool City Region has been expanding its technology activity. US-based company Kyndryl recently opened an AI hub in the region, which is expected to create up to 1,000 jobs. The hub will support enterprise development, workforce training, and collaboration across sectors.
St James will work with local partners to align AI projects with regional priorities and community needs. The Chief AI Officer role provides structured oversight, including ethical review and performance evaluation, establishing clear standards for AI adoption in the region.
