Our Founder

Digital Anthropology was originally founded as a social enterprise by serial entrepreneur, digital anthropologist and future of work expert Richard Skellett.

The decision to transform into a charity was made during the Covid-19 lockdown. Richard quickly realised that due to the devastating impact of the virus on business and the economy, generally the pace of change for automation was likely to increase at faster levels than anticipated.

Richard’s personal journey has provided the passion to ensure that the impact of digital on people is fully understood. He is totally committed to make a difference and believes that the best way of doing this is to take positive action.

He was one of three boys raised by Charles and Evelyn Skellett. Charles was a foreman in a Rubber Mill working 65 hours per week and his wife Evelyn worked full-time across four different companies.

By the age of 13, Richard was working 25 hours per week whilst at school, and he believes he would not be where he is today both personally and professionally without those two early roles. However, those first two jobs no longer exist today due to technology. The displacement of people due to digital not only impacts people starting work today but also has a major impact on the ever- increasing tax requirements to support an increased demand for public services. The tax contribution from Richard and his associated businesses has generated close to £80m and therefore the impact of disruption not only affects people who are able to support themselves but also those who need our support.

Richard is a renowned future of work expert and has spoken passionately to outlets such as BBC, City AM, Sunday Times, Daily Express, Talk Radio and so on. Richard is a regular contributor to SSON amongst others.

Richard is available to speak at corporate events, conferences and to national, international and regional media around future of work. For any enquiries, please contact 01494 898058.