Currys thinks big as Ryan den Rooijen joins tech and electrical retailer as MD of AI and Monetisation

Currys has appointed Ryan den Rooijen as Managing Director of AI and Monetisation.

Rooijen has advised various organisations on how to effectively harness data, analytics, and AI, and has worked as a software engineer, data scientist, Chief Data Officer, Chief E-commerce Officer, and Chief Strategy Officer at the likes of Qodea and Chalhoub Group.

“With many enterprises still treating generative AI like an expensive autocomplete rather than a force for real transformation, Ryan’s appointment as MD of AI and Monetisation signals a real step change in our approach,” says Andy Gamble, CITO at Currys.

“Most organisations are thinking too small. AI isn’t just a productivity tool; it’s a catalyst for reinventing business models. It’s not about making processes faster - it’s about redefining them. The real breakthrough comes when AI moves beyond automation and becomes a thought partner, driving decision-making, innovation, and entirely new ways of working. Not to mention, the incredible potential of AI enabled products to unlock entirely new revenue streams for retailers.”

Rooijen comments: “As someone who has experienced the transformative power of technology, I’m excited to be joining Currys as Managing Director of AI & Monetisation.”

“The company’s mission, to help everyone enjoy amazing technology, is particularly important given the disruptive potential of artificial intelligence. In my new role, I will be helping unlock the value of Currys’ data through its customer first loyalty strategy, and creating products that grow profits, building on its Connected Media’s strong start.”

RTIH AI in Retail Awards

RTIH, organiser of the industry leading RTIH Innovation Awards, proudly brings you the first edition of the RTIH AI in Retail Awards, which is now open for entries. 

As we witness a digital transformation revolution across all channels, AI tools are reshaping the omnichannel game, from personalising customer experiences to optimising inventory, uncovering insights into consumer behaviour, and enhancing the human element of retailers' businesses.

With 2025 set to be the year when AI and especially gen AI shake off the ‘heavily hyped’ tag and become embedded in retail business processes, our newly launched awards celebrate global technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world and the resulting benefits for retailers, shoppers and employees.

Our 2025 winners will be those companies who not only recognise the potential of AI, but also make it usable in everyday work - resulting in more efficiency and innovation in all areas.

Winners will be announced at an evening event at The Barbican in Central London on Wednesday, 3rd September.

This will kick off with a drinks reception in the stunning Conservatory, followed by a three course meal, and awards ceremony in the Garden Room.

Please email our Editor, Scott Thompson, if you have any questions or need further information: scott.thompson@retailtechinnovationhub.com

Key 2025 dates

Friday, 18th July: Award entry deadline 

Tuesday, 22nd July: 2025 finalists revealed

Wednesday, 23rd July - Friday, 8th August: Judging days

Wednesday, 3rd September: Winners announced at the 2025 RTIH AI in Retail Awards Ceremony, to be held at The Barbican in Central London.