Rochead is a fellow of the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA) and a chartered mathematician who is currently Commissioner for AI, Autonomy and Cyber, Defence Science and Technology at the Ministry of Defence.

In addition, Rochead holds positions as visiting professor of innovation strategy at Loughborough University and trustee of the University of Winchester.

The Alliance for Data Science Professionals, of which the Royal Statistical Society (RSS) is a founding member, was set up in 2022 to create industry-wide professional standards for data science.

The alliance has several projects underway for 2024, including introducing new alliance partners and launching an accreditation scheme for data science degrees, complementing the existing professional competency frameworks for Data Science Professionals.

Outgoing alliance chair and vice-president for professional affairs at the RSS Prof Rachel Hilliam said: “The alliance is a truly interdisciplinary endeavour, with the creation of standards by the community for the community, and I know that Ed will lead the Alliance for Data Science Professionals to further achievements in his role.”