RTIH Innovation Awards judge Paula Bobbett takes on Chief Data and Digital Officer role at Boots UK

Paula Bobbett is this week starting a new position as Chief Data and Digital Officer at Boots UK.

She has been at the UK health and beauty retailer for almost five years and moves up from the role of Chief Digital Officer.

Bobbett’s CV also includes stints at Dixons Carphone, Avon and Debenhams.

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Bobbett is part of the judging panel for the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards. which are now open for entries, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the form at the end of this article and we will get back to you asap.

Vineta Bajaj

Another member of the RTIH Innovation Awards judging panel taking on a new role is Vineta Bajaj, who joins Holland & Barrett Group CFO in September, replacing Nick Allen who is leaving the retailer to pursue other opportunities.

Bajaj previously held the same position at Rohlik Group. a Pan European online grocer spanning five countries that has unicorn status.

She also spent ten years at Ocado Group, the FTSE 50 online grocer and technology provider, supporting its growth and strategic M&A, strategic divestments and fundraising over £1.5 billion.

“I’m thrilled to be joining Holland & Barrett at such an exciting moment in its journey.” says Bajaj.

“As the business accelerates its transformation to become a global, digital first wellness leader, I look forward to bringing my experience in omnichannel retail, e-commerce and AI and technology led growth to support its bold ambitions. It’s a fantastic brand with a powerful purpose in a sector that’s only growing in relevance and impact.”