Sam Lawrence-Rose

Sam was born and educated in Kent. Sam is currently the Digital Lead for Digital Inclusion and Capabilities at Kent County Council within the Strategy, Policy, Relationships and Corporate Assurance division, heading up the Digital Kent team.

Starting his career working for a Kent Further Education College as an apprentice before being retained and working in a variety of roles, including as the Cross-College Enterprise Coordinator.

Sam worked in the private sector, as a Service Manager for a retail group and latterly as Business Consultant for a global brand supporting franchisees.

Sam moved back into public sector in 2019, as South Kent Engagement Officer at The Education People, covering the districts of Ashford, Dover and Folkestone and Hythe then moving on to fulfil the role of Digital and Communications Lead.

As Digital Lead, Sam oversees the digital inclusion agenda across the county – improving digital access, engagement and skills. Working in partnership with all district and borough councils across the county, along with other partners, such as the NHS – Sam has been able to continue to grow and develop the digital programme, to maximise the impact.

Outside of his career, Sam was a Councillor of his local parish council from 2011 until 2021. In the 10 years, Sam successfully restructured the operations of the council to be more effective and led on several policy updates and introductions for the council. He also chaired and led on the Council’s employment responsibilities.