Tess Harwood

Experience

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  University of Bristol

  Sept 2014 - Sept 2016

  Undergraduate physics tutor

  I taught 1st and 2nd year core physics to Bristol uni students, comprising of tutorials and opportunities for extended learning. I invest in people’s grow, their capabilities and careers. I have an ever expanding toolset, nimble communication techniques, and a commitment to education that provides value.

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  Macrobond Financial

  Jul 2016 - Sept 2016

  Financial Technology Intern
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  KPMG UK

  Oct 2018 - Jul 2023

  I was responsible for orchestrating the digital transformation of England’s decentralised bus industry, forging strategic partnerships with policymakers, civil society groups, researchers, experts, and authorities. I facilitated collaboration between thousands of diverse stakeholders, including high-level briefings with MPs and Members of the Lords. I was able to build robust and trustworthy relationships that catalysed meaningful change within UK infrastructure.I led a dynamic team to successfully implement the pioneering Bus Open Data Legislation 2020 for the UK Government (Department for Transport) significantly enhancing the UK's public information infrastructure. This enabled third-party AI technologists to contribute and boosted public transport adoption.I leveraged my open data expertise and communication skills to influence major transport policies, including commercially complex topics such as the '£2 UK Fares' policy. I spearheaded initiatives in decarbonisation, sustainability, and accessibility, contributing to the industry's reduced carbon footprint and underscoring my dedication to innovative environmental solutions. Show less I developed business cases and established data standards for national-scale implementation, ensuring alignment with government objectives for national transport information requirements (e.g., TransXchange, SIRI, NeTEx, GTFS, NaPTAN). Throughout my career, I have maintained a focus on enabling consistent data production and interpretation across diverse stakeholders.I led comprehensive user research to identify and address the needs of diverse user groups within the transport data ecosystem, including bus operators, local authorities, data consumers, urban planners, and government officials. This work guided the adoption and optimisation of multiple platforms tailored to their requirements.I ensured that product development consistently met and exceeded the standards set by the UK Government Digital Service (GDS).I managed policy risks effectively while designing and implementing a national-scale open data platform, ensuring compliance, accessibility, and alignment with broader strategic goals. Show less

  • Change Lead

    Jul 2020 - Jul 2023

  • Product Manager

    Oct 2018 - Jun 2020
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  Harwoods Properties

  Jan 2021 - now

  Director

  Focused on buying, developing, and leasing high-yield properties.

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  Transport Scotland

  Feb 2024 - Sept 2024

  Data Delivery Manager

  Unlocking the potential value of public transport by delivering innovative data solutions.