Dr Cate Kalson

I am bought into Dynamo’s mission to grow the North East technology sector, I want to play my part in ensuring that our region benefits from the opportunities that technology adoption presents. We can make more progress on certain dimensions if organisations collaborate and work as a collective rather than individually, this is the impact potential of Dynamo. I also get a lot professionally and personally from making new connections, so I’m thankful for my role with Dynamo as I’ve met many great colleagues and collaborators since I got involved a few years ago.

I’m the chief people officer at Opencast, which is a technology consultancy headquartered in Byker, Newcastle. We deliver services for enterprise clients across the UK, with a particular focus on UK government, healthcare and green energy. We have 500 people nationwide and I lead our people strategy, social impact and operational people functions. Tangibly what this means is being an executive leader, focused on the sustainable growth of Opencast with a particular focus on our employees and broader societal impact.

I listen to what’s going on with our Opencast clients and our Opencast technology leaders. It’s a privilege to be surrounded by tech innovators!

I play tennis competitively, which keeps me fit and takes my focus away from work. I enjoy visual creativity, so dabble with interior design and lino printing. I love spending time with my husband & two boys, following their interests and being active together as a family.

1. Raise the profile of the tech sector within the region, with a particular focus on bringing diverse talent into the sector.
2. Raise your profile, to generate business opportunities and attract talent.
3. Learn from peers and provide networking opportunities for colleagues with peers at all levels.