Tech News Summary:
- Ian Hogarth is being selected by Downing Street to lead the Foundation Models Taskforce (FMT), which aims to accelerate the adoption of safe AI models with £100m in funding.
- The UK government aims to establish the country as a global hub for AI technology development and oversight after Brexit and plans to host a world summit this autumn to discuss regulatory safeguards.
- Hogarth’s appointment demonstrates Downing Street’s commitment to making Britain a global leader in AI technology development, and his experience as an investor in dozens of startups makes him an ideal candidate for this role.
In an exciting and game-changing move for both business and technology, Chancellor Rishi Sunak has tapped Songkick founder Ian Hogarth to lead the government’s taskforce on artificial intelligence.
Hogarth is widely regarded as a tech-industry trailblazer, having co-founded and served as CEO of Songkick, a personalised concert discovery service that boasts more than 15 million monthly users. Under his guidance, the company raised over $60 million in investment and formed partnerships with some of the world’s leading ticketing companies.
Now, Hogarth will be joining forces with the government to shape the UK’s approach to AI, which is set to revolutionise almost every sector in the coming years. The taskforce will focus on developing cutting-edge AI technologies that can help British businesses compete globally, while also ensuring that these technologies are deployed in an ethical and responsible manner.
Sunak believes that Hogarth’s experience and vision will be invaluable in achieving these goals. “Ian is someone who has already created a world-beating business, and understands the vital importance of AI in driving growth and innovation. I have no doubt that his leadership will prove instrumental in shaping the UK’s AI strategy, and I am thrilled to have him on board.”
Hogarth himself is equally enthusiastic about the opportunity to work with the government. “We are at an inflection point in the development of AI, and it is vital that the UK takes a leading role in shaping its future. I am excited to help bring together the government, industry and academia to ensure that AI development in the UK is not just technically exceptional, but also ethical and responsible.”
This news is sure to be greeted with enthusiasm by business leaders across the UK, who recognise the transformative potential of AI in driving innovation and growth. With Hogarth at the helm, the UK’s AI taskforce is well-placed to lead the charge – and usher in a new era of technological innovation.