COMET, a UK-based specialist in investigation and assurance software designed for high-risk industries such as energy, construction, maritime, rail, and utilities, has announced that Dr Douglas Leith has taken on a new role as its new chief intelligence officer (CIO).
This newly created role reflects COMET’s commitment to advancing the way organisations gather, analyse, and utilise data to drive smarter, more strategic decision-making.
"Poor data leads to poor information. Poor information leads to poor intelligence. Poor intelligence leads to poor decision-making," said Mark Rushton, CEO of COMET.
"With Dr Leith’s appointment, we’re putting intelligence at the forefront, ensuring our tools and services empower businesses to make better, data-driven decisions."
In his role, Dr Leith will oversee the optimisation of data, information, and intelligence within COMET’s product suite, as well as lead initiatives to improve data practices within client organisations. His work will ensure that COMET’s customers can rely on high-quality data and actionable intelligence to enhance both strategic and operational outcomes.
COMET’s focus on intelligence is already reflected in upcoming innovations. In 2025, COMET will launch an enhanced Signals module, designed to help professionals easily extract actionable insights from their data and proactively identify future risks. Additionally, the company’s new Data HealthCheck service is assisting clients in improving data collection methods, ensuring data quality, and streamlining information processing.
Dr Leith brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having started his career with a PhD in applied artificial intelligence nearly 40 years ago.
"In many ways, AI’s role hasn’t changed - it’s always been about supporting human decision-making," said Dr. Leith. "Back then, my work led to a commercial product that helped maintenance managers decide which machines to repair and when, offering intelligence to make more informed, timely decisions.
"Today, we’re using digital technologies to uncover hidden insights in data, empowering organisations to make the best decisions possible."
With Dr Leith at the helm of COMET’s intelligence initiatives, the company is poised to redefine how businesses leverage data for smarter, safer, and more efficient operations.