Creating space for innovation at North Sea Transition Authority

For Patrick Rickles at the North Sea Transition Authority (NSTA), driving digital change means embedding new ways of working across the organisation, backed by a clear-eyed focus on capability, culture, and user needs.

As the UK regulator responsible for managing oil, gas, and carbon storage activities in the North Sea, the NSTA plays a critical role in supporting the energy transition and ensuring energy security. That mission increasingly depends on harnessing data, digital tools, and innovative thinking - not just within technical teams, but across the whole organisation.

Priorities for 2025: Skills, AI & Automation

“My team’s focus this year is threefold,” Rickles explains. “First, to equip our workforce with essential digital capabilities through our Core Skills Practitioner programme, ensuring everyone is confident with supported software.”

That foundation is being paired with more advanced initiatives - including using artificial intelligence to enhance insight and impact. “Second,” he continues, “we’re leveraging AI to unlock deeper insights from our data, enhancing the value and impact of our work.”

The third priority is about freeing up time and enabling focus. “We’re working to automate routine elements of our business processes - so that teams can concentrate on higher-value, strategic activities.”

Rickles is clear that digital innovation isn’t just about tools and tech. “I’m excited to share how we’re driving innovation by fostering an open and supportive culture that encourages experimentation,” he says.

That includes:

• A Sandbox environment for testing new technologies in a safe and supported way;

• A network of Digital Ambassadors who act as local champions for change;

• And a monthly Innovation Time, when the entire organisation sets aside dedicated time for learning and personal development.

Bringing people on the journey

The best advice Rickles has to share is rooted in empathy and communication: “Talk to people, listen to them, and make sure they feel heard.”

He’s seen how transformation efforts falter when engagement is an afterthought. “Engaging stakeholders early, listening actively, and involving them meaningfully creates the foundation for successful and sustainable change.”

Looking ahead to the Government Transformation Summit, Rickles is keen to learn from his colleagues across government: “I’m curious to hear how others are evolving their digital workplace strategies. What approaches have helped you drive innovation? What’s been effective in engaging teams and embedding digital ways of working? What lessons have you learned along the way?”

👉  Patrick Rickles is one of the DDaT leaders hosting discussions on both days of Government Transformation Summit (24-25 June, Church House Westminster). Registration is free for civil servants and local government executives.