John Cumming
Director COE, Data and the Digital Asset, Worley Consulting

I’ve worked with data and technology from the very start of my career. What still fascinates me is working through deployment and people challenges that make it work. With today’s rapid tech evolution, that’s more critical than ever.

John’s journey into the world of data and technology began on the rigs of the Middle East in 1978, where he worked as a wireline logging engineer. It was here that he developed a deep appreciation for the value of high‑quality data.

With a master’s degree in petroleum engineering, he expanded his expertise into reservoir simulation and production engineering software development – laying the foundation for a career defined by innovation and impact.

Transitioning from development to deployment, John moved into consulting, where he focused on implementing technology solutions that deliver real value. After spending some time in management consulting, John then joined Worley in 2021 with a strategic lens, supporting the deployment of data and digital asset solutions globally, leveraging his expertise from working across countries and continents including Türkiye, Saudi, UAE, Oman, UK, China, Russia, USA, India and Norway.

John with other colleagues standing in front of and looking at laptop screens.

Building value for clients from digital

John’s focus is on helping customers navigate the complexities of digital transformation. His approach centers on fully understanding customer objectives and needs before working to bring together the most effective project plan, building robust business cases and aligning the right technology and teams to deliver measurable outcomes that are critical to justifying the investment in digital technology.

“We often see customers start from technology selection, or at least from the assumption that this is the most important element of the solution, when in reality we need to address the people, procedure and data issues just as carefully to succeed.”

John sitting on a stool on stage speaking into microphone.

The start of a new digital world order

Looking ahead, John sees a seismic shift in the digital landscape. The emergence of agentic AI, IOT, pervasive digital twins and autonomous robotics creates a major opportunity but also lots of noise and confusion.

“Finding a path through the current maze needs a clear understanding of technology maturity and the balance of cost and value delivered – that is what we focus on in Worley.”

With his experience and vision, John is helping shape a future where digital solutions are not just adopted, but truly transformative.