I lead teams that transform the delivery of government services through technology, data, and design that puts users first.
My Story
I'm Jonny Zillessen, an Associate Partner at IBM Consulting and a Chartered Management Consultant. For over fourteen years at IBM, I've worked with experts who are passionate about using cloud, automation, and AI to improve how government serves its citizens.
I am currently a lead responsible for working with UK government organisations focused on transforming national technology infrastructure. I build and lead teams of specialists that deliver complex, national scale digital programmes. My work sits at the intersection of strategy and delivery: helping senior leaders define what transformation looks like, and then staying with them to make it happen.
My early career was spent delivering technology change across financial services and the energy sector, working with major banks and global oil and gas companies on large scale systems transformation. That cross industry foundation shaped how I think about complexity, risk, and the importance of getting delivery fundamentals right. When I moved into public sector work, I brought those lessons with me and found a vocation. I'm drawn to the challenge and purpose of improving services that millions of people use.
What I Do
Digital Transformation Strategy
Working alongside government leadership teams to define change enabled by technology that aligns with policy objectives and delivers measurable outcomes for citizens.
Complex Programme Delivery
Leading teams of specialists through the full lifecycle of national scale programmes, from discovery and design through to live service and sustained operation. My teams navigate complex supplier ecosystems, regulatory frameworks, and the scrutiny that comes with public accountability.
AI and Emerging Technology
Applying generative AI, automation, and hybrid cloud to real public sector challenges. I do this responsibly, securely, and with a focus on practical value. I work with government organisations to identify where these technologies can genuinely improve services.
People and Team Leadership
Building high performing, diverse teams where people are supported to do their best work. I'm a career coach, mentor, and active supporter of initiatives that develop the next generation of public sector technology leaders.
Impact
Outcomes our teams have delivered:
- Pioneering the UK's contactless border system.A collaboration across government and industry that processed over 10,000 passengers during a national pilot, reducing border processing times by 30% and generating national news coverage. This is now being scaled to an enterprise wide version due to be rolled out this year.
- Built a digital capability for the Disclosure and Barring Servicethat transformed how citizens access safeguarding checks. The team delivered an award winning cloud hosted service and won a UK Customer Service Excellence Award.
- Grew a strategic technology partnershipfrom an initial investment in thousands into a multimillion pound programme, establishing a long term build and run capability for a new national service.
- Consistently achieved 10/10 client satisfaction scoresacross multiple government accounts, with letters of commendation from senior programme directors recognising the team's dedication and expertise.
- MCA Consulting Award winner and finalistfor Performance Improvement in the Public Sector.
Credentials
- Chartered Management Consultant (ChMC, CMI)
- IBM Associate Partner
- IBM Hybrid Cloud Knowledge Leader
- Certified in Trustworthy AI and Ethics
- Durham University, BA Accounting and Finance
I live with my family in the North of England and enjoy climbing, swimming, and exploring the local countryside with my kids.