Tom Riordan


Tom Riordan is a UK civil servant. He has been CEO of Leeds Council from August 2010, and in May 2020 he agreed to spend 3 months, part-time, leading the UK government COVID-19 tracing system.

Early life and education

Riordan was born and educated, in the state education system, in North Yorkshire. He graduated in Modern History from Trinity College, Oxford University in 1989. He gained an MBA at Imperial College in 1997.

Career

Riordan joined the UK civil service 'fast stream' graduate intake in 1990. He then specialised in environmental policy and represented the UK in international negotiations on climate change and endangered species. After setting up the Regional Development Agency Yorkshire Forward, he became its Chief Executive in 2006, supporting 10,000 businesses during the recession, completing award-winning regeneration developments and pioneering low carbon initiatives.
Riordan has been CEO of Leeds Council from August 2010.

Coronavirus

In May 2020 Riordan agreed to spend three months, part-time, leading the UK government COVID-19 tracing system.

Personal life

Riordan is married and has two children. He is a keen footballer and Middlesbrough F.C. supporter. He has experience of mental health issues in his wider family.