Naomi Hutchinson is Chief Innovation and Growth Officer at Sunderland City Council, where she plays a key role in the Smart City programme, ensuring that innovation delivers real social, economic, and environmental benefits for residents and businesses. Known for asking the critical “so what?” question, Naomi ensures that every initiative has purpose and impact—never tech for tech’s sake.
With over a decade of experience in the region’s tech and digital sectors, Naomi brings deep insight into how technology can drive inclusive growth and business transformation. Her previous role as Head of Innovation at Sunderland Software City saw her championing tech founders, brokering transformative partnerships, and unlocking opportunities at the intersection of supply and demand.
Naomi is passionate about building open, collaborative ecosystems where innovation is accessible to all and where cities become platforms for opportunity. Her work is helping Sunderland become one of the UK’s most inclusive and forward-thinking smart cities—open for business, and open to everyone.