Next CIO Awards

Recognising the rising stars of the UK IT sector

Christelle Heikilla

Former IT Director
Arsenal FC

Christelle is a digital and technology leader with a wealth of consultancy and industry experience who enjoys coaching and mentoring the next generation of IT leaders. She has a unique perspective having worked in large and smaller organisations and across different industries. Her specialism is helping businesses land IT transformation through strong leadership. She is a Non-Executive Board Director of TechSkills, owned by TechUK, whose mission is to develop digital talent that industry needs.

Most recently Christelle was the IT Director of Arsenal Football Club working in a complex but fun technology environment with diverse business operations.

Christelle started her technology career as an Accenture IT consultant working in the Retail and Entertainment industries. She then joined Sainsbury’s with her last role driving digital change. Christelle was a member of the IT Leadership team at Superdrug before swapping health and beauty for football!