Acuity Analytics appoints former IBM executive Jon O'Donnell as CEO

Acuity Analytics has appointed Jon O'Donnell as chief executive officer with immediate effect as the company looks to accelerate growth in AI, data and digital services. O'Donnell, who joined the business as chief operating officer in 2024, succeeds Rob King, who will become chairman at the end of the year. King will take over from Philip Gore-Randall, who is due to retire on December 31 after seven years in the role.

The leadership changes form part of the company's succession planning and have the backing of its board and private equity owner Permira. Acuity Analytics said the appointments come as it expands its analytics and insights business to help financial services clients transform their operations through AI, data and digital technologies.

Before joining Acuity Analytics, O'Donnell spent more than two decades at IBM, where he held a series of senior leadership positions, including overseeing business and technology consulting operations across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Since joining Acuity, he has worked on business strategy, technology innovation and the growth of the group's AI, data and digital services operations.

Jon O'Donnell said: "Our clients are making significant decisions about where to invest in AI and how to change the way their businesses work. They need partners who understand their workflows and can turn technology investment into sustainable advantage.

"Acuity Analytics brings together people who understand financial services in depth with growing expertise in data and AI. My priority is to make that combination count: helping clients re-design their workflows, optimising operations through the best combination of AI and talent and achieve more from their investment.

"Rob has built a strong business with trusted client relationships and talented colleagues. I look forward to building on that work and continuing to benefit from his experience as he transitions to the role of chairman."

The appointment follows a series of acquisitions designed to strengthen the company's technology, data and AI capabilities. In October 2026, Acuity Analytics acquired US data consultancy Continuus, adding expertise in data strategy, governance and data platforms. The deal followed its acquisition of data and AI specialist Ascent in 2025 and managed services provider PPA Group in 2024.

Rob King said: "Jon brings substantial experience of leading technology businesses and helping organisations change how they operate. Since joining Acuity Analytics, he has combined that experience with a clear understanding of our clients, our people and the opportunities ahead.

"We have invested significantly in AI, digital and data, building on the industry expertise that has always distinguished Acuity Analytics. Jon is the right person to lead the business through its next stage of growth.

"I would also like to thank Philip Gore-Randall for his contribution as chairman over the past seven years. His judgement, counsel and support have been invaluable to me and have helped guide Acuity Analytics through a period of significant growth and change."

King has led Acuity Analytics since its separation from Moody's in 2019 and, in his new role as chairman, will continue to support the executive team while maintaining selected investor and client relationships.