Richard Yeatman is one of Ignite Data’s Co-founders – he’s currently Operations and Technical Director, so he’s right at the forefront of Ignite’s work. This week I sat down with him for a chat; we covered everything from where the idea for Ignite Data originally came from, to his proudest achievement, and even where he spends his time outside the office.
What’s your background, what brought you to Ignite Data?
I graduated with a BSc in Computer Sciences with a specialism in business. I always knew I wanted to set up my own business related to data of some kind, I was just on the hunt for the right opportunity. Before Ignite I worked in various roles, all involving data of some kind.
Through work connections I met Dan (Hydes, Ignite Co-founder). We got talking about the problems with recruitment and data collection in trials. I’d worked in the NHS for a few years and my experience with EHRs, combined with the ideas Dan had been exploring, gave us the original idea for Ignite – these records hold the key, it’s about getting the right people and processes in place to use these records ethically and efficiently to support research.
What does a typical day’s work look like for you?
That’s a tough question, my job is probably the most dynamic job in the world! I oversee all the projects in Ignite’s portfolio, and I have a technical hat that allows me to manage relationships between various stakeholders to ensure we get access to the right data in formats that we can understand. I can be doing anything from writing proposals, pitching for projects, and of course making sure our clients are getting the best service and results possible.
What achievement are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of taking a methodology, a seed of an idea, and making it a reality. Dan and I had this wild – seemingly simple – idea, and we’ve turned it into a viable business.
The biggest thing for me was when we randomised our first patient; it wasn’t just an idea anymore; it was a real thing. That was pretty special.
What do you think will be the biggest tech advancement in the not too distant future?
In an ideal world I’d like to see more and more data linkage within the NHS – and I think that’s a realistic hope, there are lots of people working towards that goal. It’s important that we don’t take our eye off the ball when it comes to data quality too. The data that NHS records hold have huge potential for healthcare as a whole. High quality data would allow us to assess how drugs are being used – helping us figure out how patients get better faster; and that’s what we’re all working towards.
If you’re not at Ignite Data HQ in Reading, where are you?
My son was born last July so I’m enjoying watching him grow and his personality develop. I’m also running regularly – trying to improve my fitness along with the rest of the world! Aside from that I’m a huge Newcastle United fan. I head up north when I can to St James’ Park to go to matches with my cousin. I’m a bit of a football nut to be honest.
