Accelerating Innovation to Power the UK Economy: Adam Turner, The Data Lab Innovation Centre
Adam Turner has been at the forefront of data-driven innovation for years, helping to shape the UK’s economic landscape through the strategic application of artificial intelligence, data analytics, and cross-sector collaboration. As a tireless connector of people and ideas, Adam has played a critical role in advancing over 200 innovation projects, bringing together academics, government leaders, and industry pioneers to tackle real-world challenges with cutting-edge technology.
His work has generated tangible economic impact on both national and international scales. Across the UK, and notably in Scotland and Northern Ireland, Adam has helped to create, safeguard, or enhance more than 1,000 high-value jobs, increasing taxable income and driving regional prosperity. Through his innovation leadership, collaborators have achieved more than £200 million in additional revenues by developing new or improved products and services, realising efficiency gains, and enhancing global competitiveness.
Adam’s influence is evident in several major initiatives. He co-led the UK proposals that launched the Smart Manufacturing Data Hub (SMDH), a £54 million programme designed to support UK manufacturers in improving productivity, boosting resilience, and achieving net zero readiness. This initiative has not only addressed workforce challenges but has also strengthened the manufacturing sector’s ability to compete on a global stage.
In Northern Ireland, Adam helped to establish the AI Collaboration Centre, a hub designed to empower SMEs to adopt and innovate with AI and data. This centre supports economic growth, fosters technological advancement, and develops critical skills within the workforce, laying the foundation for a future-ready economy.
Adam’s dedication to responsible and inclusive innovation is equally notable. He co-leads the Participatory Harms, Auditable Workbenches and Methodologies programme, a UK-wide initiative that is equipping public and private sector innovators with tools, training, and methodologies to implement ethical and trustworthy AI. By ensuring AI development aligns with both societal values and economic ambitions, Adam is helping the UK lead in responsible tech innovation.
His work also extends into healthcare, where he co-leads AI Colon Endoscopy, a Europe-wide project that is set to revolutionise the detection and treatment of colorectal cancer. This initiative not only has life-saving implications but also promises significant cost savings and efficiencies across health systems like the NHS, showcasing the dual social and economic impact of applied AI.
Beyond specific programmes, Adam has supported enterprise zones, regional deals, and growth ecosystems by linking SMEs with government, councils, and investors. His efforts have catalysed local innovation, attracted foreign direct investment, and provided upskilling opportunities in areas that need them most.
Through AI acceleration programmes and public sector innovation support, Adam continues to foster a culture of transformation from within. His deep understanding of both technology and people has earned him widespread respect, making him a vital force in the UK’s innovation economy.
Adam Turner’s career is a blueprint for how collaborative, responsible innovation can fuel economic growth. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the UK economy.
To read more about the techUK President's Awards, visit our page here. Winners will be announced at the techUK Annual Dinner on 1 July
Read more about our President's Award finalists:
People Award
- Transforming Healthcare through Impactful Leadership: Lynette Ousby, CEO, ReStart
- A Quiet Force for Good in Cybersecurity: Randall Mason, Fortinet
- Shaping the Future of Workforce Training Through Innovation: Evren Emre, SANLAB
Society Award
- Harnessing Technology to Protect Survivors of Domestic Abuse: Razi Hassan, Domestic Abuse Alliance
- Building a Better Public Sector Through Digital Innovation: Dr. Doug Guthrie, Digital Modus
- Driving Digital Skills and Diversity in STEM: Elizabeth Barr, Cisco
Economy Award
- Accelerating Innovation to Power the UK Economy: Adam Turner, The Data Lab Innovation Centre Centre
- Redefining Digital Trust for UK Businesses: Cindy van Niekerk, Founder of Umazi.
- Transforming Commercial Conflict into Economic Opportunity: Fayola-Maria Jack, Resolutiion
Planet Award