Business Classification Disruptor Hires Chief Economist

Leeds, UK-based company data and industry classification specialist The Data City has appointed Paul Swinney in the new role of Chief Economist. The data platform is continuing with its rapid international expansion.

The Data City helps clients in both public and private sectors to understand the economy in 'real time' - clients include policymakers, economists, investors and analysts. The firm started out developing a new classification system called RTIC, which replaces the SIC codes used to categorise British industry since the 1980s and beyond. The older system does not allow for changes in the economy and continues to group large numbers of very different firms in 'other' categories. The Data City counted some 5.3 million UK companies on its database a year ago, and more than 400 RTIC classifications. With the aid of these new categories, the company maps the emergence of new sectors in the UK, serving a wide range of government departments, think tanks and global businesses.

Swinney (pictured) joins from Centre for Cities, where he was Director of Policy and Research, with substantial influence on regional economic development. In his new role he will guide development of the company's economic insight products, including a relaunched Frontier Economy Index' help position RTIC as the future of classification; contribute to its expansion into Europe, North America and beyond; and mentor the company's economics team.

Co-founder and CEO Alex Craven says of the new arrival: 'Paul has long been one of the most respected voices in UK economic policy. His appointment comes as we build the foundations of a new global industrial classification system and develop the tools that will inform investment, policy and growth worldwide.'

Web site: www.thedatacity.com .