YouGov Co-founder Given Government Data Role

YouGov co-founder and CEO Stephan Shakespeare has been named as chair of the Data Strategy Board for the UK government's Department for Business, Innovation & Skills (BIS)

The Board is charged with the general task of setting a strategy for the government to drive economic growth via access to its data sets; and more specifically with unlocking the potential of data held by four 'Trading Funds' - the Met Office, Ordnance Survey, Companies House and Land Registry - collectively known as the Public Data Group, for the benefits of individuals and businesses in the UK.

Shakespeare will advise ministers on how to make the most of data in the 'Funds' and on what further data ought to be released. Professing himself 'delighted' with the appointment, he comments: 'I look forward to putting my experience of running a data-driven business and my knowledge of the public sector to drive forward the strategic role of data in supporting innovation, reform and economic growth, both in the public and commercial sectors. What we are trying to do with the Data Strategy Board is important, it matters and will make a real difference. Greater transparency can lead to enhanced collaboration and unleash innovation.'

In addition to co-founding online research pioneer YouGov in 2000, Shakespeare also started PoliticsHome.com and ConservativeHome.com and more recently a new online venture, Opigram. He is a trustee of the National Portrait Gallery.

Web site: www.yougov.com .