David Richards MBE

David Richards is a seasoned veteran in the software industry with over 25 years of executive experience and a strong advocate for British technology.

As the founder and former CEO of WANdisco, a prominent global player in distributed computing and big data, David has made a lasting impact on the industry.

He is now the co-founder and Managing Partner of Yorkshire AI Labs (YAIL), a pioneering venture capital firm based in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, known for its unique approach that combines sweat equity and cash to propel early-stage companies to new heights.

Alongside his business ventures, David is actively involved in philanthropic endeavors, serving as a board trustee at the David and Jane Richards Family Foundation, which focuses on empowering children.

He also co-founded Laptops For Kids, a charity that helps bridge the digital gap for underprivileged children by providing them with used devices for remote learning.

David's commitment to innovation extends to Silicon Valley, where he participates on advisory and executive boards of various start-ups.

Recognized for his contributions, he was appointed as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2022 New Year Honours for his dedication to the IT sector and support for young people, especially during challenging times like the Covid-19 pandemic.

Moreover, David has been granted honorary doctorates from The University of Sheffield in 2023 and Sheffield Hallam University in 2017, highlighting his significant impact on academia and entrepreneurship.

David pursued a BSc (Hons) in computing at The University of Huddersfield and an honorary PhD at The University of Sheffield, underscoring his commitment to both practical and academic aspects of technology.

His professional journey includes roles such as Founder & Chief Executive at WANdisco plc, Chairman at IntelliAM, and Non-Executive Director at Tech Nation, among others, showcasing his diverse expertise and leadership in various organizations and projects.