Martin French

Driven by a passion for harnessing data to drive transformational change, I am a seasoned technology executive with a proven record in designing and implementing pioneering data strategies. Throughout my career, I have built and led high-performing international teams by merging robust technical expertise with strategic insight, consistently delivering sustainable business benefits.

Apex Group, London | Global Chief Technology & Data Officer | Aug 2022 – Present

• Implemented a global Data and AI strategy, establishing governance and ethics councils to ensure oversight and alignment across the organisation.
• Built and scaled a comprehensive data function, including Data Engineering, Operations, Insights (Analytics, Data Science & AI), and Data Product Management.
• Achieved $14 million in annualised savings through technology consolidation, staff optimisation, and strategic reshoring.
• Negotiated vendor contracts to deliver $1.4m in licensing savings within 3 months of employment.
• Provided strategic oversight of data streams for a $64m ERP and CRM transformation programme.
• Re-architected a fragmented data estate post-M&A to improve efficiency and business relevance.
• Launched a data monetisation initiative to generate revenue through internal data products estimated value of $54m per annum over 33% of client base.
• Transitioned the enterprise to a Data Mesh-inspired model, balancing centralised governance with domain ownership.

Sanne Group, London | Group Head of Data Engineering / Acting Chief Data Officer | Aug 2021 – Aug 2022

• Rewrote and operationalised the enterprise data strategy in alignment with evolving business priorities.
• Defined and initiated a new Target Operating Model for global data management.
• Authored core policies including data retention, handling, and compliance frameworks.
• Acted as the enterprise-wide SME for all data-related systems, including DLP in collaboration with the CISO.
• Spearheaded a shift in organisational data culture across all global jurisdictions.
• Rescued a high-risk document management implementation from failure, safeguarding against substantial losses.
• Represented the group at industry events, delivering keynote insights on data architecture and transformation.

Secondary Education prior to military service.