Sheffield Tech Academy Appoints Three New Directors

Sheffield-based software and coding school, The Developer Academy, recently announced the appointment of Neil Bizzell as Director of Education, and Chris Dymond (Sheffield Digital) and Jamie Hinton (Razor Ltd) as Non-Executive Directors.

Neil Bizzell has joined the board as Director of Education and shareholder. Neil is an experienced computer science teacher with a demonstrated history of working in the Education industry. Highly skilled in computer science, youth work, educational technology, IT strategy, and youth leadership.

Chris Dymond is a Co-Founder and Director of Sheffield Digital, the association for the people and businesses of Sheffield's digital industries. Chris is also the Academic Director of the Smart City Management Programme at Zigurat Global Institute of Technology, and an associate lecturer in Digital Media Management at Sheffield Hallam University.

Chris says, “We desperately need to develop new models for providing learners with the skills and behaviours needed to create new things with digital technologies, and provide more pathways into work. This is not just in traditionally “tech” fields, but in all parts of the economy, and for all people no matter their background, age, or previous formal learning. The Developer Academy is innovating and creating these new approaches, and I’m incredibly keen and excited to help it do much more of this in any way I can.”

Jamie Hinton is an experienced CEO of Razor, recognised by the Financial Times as one of the Top 1000 Fastest Growing Companies 2021, and named as One to Watch in the LDC Top 50 Most Ambitious Business Leaders.

Jamie has worked with major brands including Alfa Romeo, Co-Operative Bank, HCCi Dyson, Virgin Trains and South Staffs Water. At Razor he challenges his team to think bigger; to enhance business functions, experiences and intelligence beyond the client’s expectation.

Jamie says, "Understanding technology is powerful - some of the greatest societal developments we’ve seen in the last decade come from the minds and hands of maverick problem solvers across the globe, using technology to transform the way we live, work and play - saving lives and transforming industries.

"How we support, shape and provide for the brightest minds entering the industry provides inherent value for every person and organisation on the planet - and it starts with the opportunities we provide for people now. It’s a huge privilege to become a non-Exec Director of The Developer Academy, to help support the next-gen of change makers from the heart of the North. Let’s DO this!"

Commenting on the appointments, Ben Atha, Founder of The Developer Academy, said "I am delighted to announce the appointments of Neil as Director of Education, Chris and Jamie as Non-Executive Directors. They bring an invaluable mix of skills to the Board, including in the technology sector, in education, in marketing and general management, gained from a range of businesses. As The Developer Academy faces into the next phase of its growth, they will add huge value to the Board".