2026 marks an important milestone for Socitm: 40 years of supporting public sector digital, data and technology leaders.
Providing resources, tools, training, sharing best practice, and a network of fellow professionals to help deliver services which improve the lives of people and communities.
Since 1986 Socitm has evolved alongside the public sector itself
From the early days of local government IT – through the various flavours of tech-enabled change and digital transformation – to today’s complex landscape of data, cyber security, AI and place-based services. One thing has remained constant: our focus on practical support, collaboration and impact.
Over four decades, Socitm’s been shaped by its members. Chief information officers, chief digital officers, digital leaders, practitioners and partners have come together to share insight, challenge thinking, and help one another navigate change.
That collective wisdom, always grounded in real-world experience, is what makes the Socitm community distinctive.
We continue to evolve
In 2024 we secured charity status. Which cemented our position to be driven by purpose, not profit. And helping the local public sector operate better through smarter use of technology, data and collaboration.
We focus on what matters most. People and place. Recognising that technology is only valuable when it delivers better outcomes for communities.
The challenges facing the public sector today are significant:
- Financial pressure
- Rising demand
- Skills shortages
- Climate risk
- Rapid technological change
But so too are the opportunities. Across the UK and beyond, we see the innovation happening daily. It’s led, often quietly, by committed public servants working together in new and creative ways. We continue to celebrate and showcase this exemplary practice and help with better use and adoption of proven solutions. We want to continue to generate motivation and interest to instil change.
As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, this is not just a moment to look back, but a chance to draw on our history to look forward. To reflect on what we have learned, to recognise the contribution of our members past and present, and to renew our commitment to supporting the next generation of public sector leaders. We’re keen to work hand in glove with other key stakeholders and partners to deliver ambitious plans for the sector.
Over the coming months, we’ll be sharing stories, perspectives and milestones from our journey and exploring what the next chapter could and should look like.
From legacy to leadership
Our flagship event this year will be our President’s Conference on Tuesday 9 and Wednesday 10 June in London. There we’ll take the opportunity to both celebrate our achievements to date, but also look forwards.
Thank you for being part of Socitm’s story so far. We’re looking forward to shaping the future together.
🎉 Celebrate with us as we mark our 40th Anniversary with reminiscences and a timeline with highlights so far. How much do you remember?
📷 Have we missed anything? Send us your memories, milestones or photos
