Tom Orrell

Tom is a Deputy Director of Programs at Development Gateway: An IREX Venture. Tom’s experience bridges human rights law, sustainable development and humanitarian action, and data policy. Prior to joining DG in January 2024, in 2017, Tom founded and managed DataReady, a social enterprise that supported sustainable development and humanitarian organizations in navigating the complexities of data governance through a human rights lens. Since joining DG, Tom is working to incorporate DataReady’s brand and approach into DG’s growing portfolio of data governance and strategy work. Additionally, Tom supports a number of DG’s programs and projects, including DG’s work with UNICEF, the aLIVE program, and HackCorruption. Tom also contributes to DG’s external engagement and business development functions.

Tom started his career working for UNICEF in Ethiopia between 2007-2009, following completion of a BA (Hons) in International Relations from Keele University. Tom then studied law at BPP Law School in London and was called to the bar of England and Wales in 2011. Following several years working as a human rights lawyer in London, Tom pivoted to internet and data policy, working for Global Partners Digital and Publish What You Fund before setting up DataReady. Tom is fluent in Greek and has a basic knowledge of Spanish and French.