FIRST ODI-CERTIFIED DATA ETHICS PROFESSIONAL ON THE ISLE OF MAN

Chris Kissack, Business Development Manager at Acclaim Limited, has become the first individual on the Isle of Man to earn the Open Data Institute’s (ODI) Data Ethics Professional certification. This is a milestone that places the Island at the forefront of ethical AI adoption at a time when data use is becoming more complex, risky, and widespread across sectors.

This certification from the Open Data Institute (ODI) is globally recognised and equips professionals to lead on ethical, responsible use of data and artificial intelligence. It marks a meaningful step for the Island as conversations around AI shift from adoption to accountability. It also reflects Acclaim’s broader focus on equipping its team and the wider business community with the tools needed to navigate emerging technologies responsibly.

“I am incredibly proud to have qualified as a certified Data Ethics Professional with the Open Data Institute, not just because it was a lot of study and hard work, but because it will enhance our services to our clients. How businesses and professionals obtain, use, and share data has never been more important, so understanding and being able to utilise different frameworks and methodologies is incredibly valuable. Being the first on the Island to obtain this accreditation is a career highlight for me, something I could not have achieved without the incredible encouragement and support from my colleagues at Acclaim, but I hope it will not be long before other data professionals on the Island follow suit, bolstering the Isle of Man’s reputation for a centre of excellence for data and AI. ” – Chris Kissack, Business Development Manager, Acclaim Limited

Why This Matters for Business

As more businesses turn to AI, questions around data privacy, fairness, and trust can’t be ignored. Acclaim Limited is actively encouraging its people to stay informed, meet new standards, and help shape a safer, smarter approach to AI for the Island.

Stuart Coleman, Director of Learning and Consultancy at the Open Data Institute, said:

‘Chris joins hundreds of Data Ethics Professionals all around the world. Data ethics and responsible AI are pressing concerns for many organisations across a wide range of sectors. The Data Ethics Professional certification gives people the tools and skills they need to build trust and transparency, ensuring that their organisations are well placed to maximise the benefits of data and AI while minimising the risks. The Open Data Institute is very pleased that Chris has joined many other data leaders from around the world.’

A First for the Isle of Man

Chris’s achievement comes as the Isle of Man launched its government-led AI initiative (Activate AI) last year, designed to raise awareness, education, and adoption of AI across the Island. Led by Digital Isle of Man, the programme brings together public and private partners to deliver practical, grounded guidance on emerging technologies.

As a training partner, Acclaim Limited has delivered workshops and shared insights to help businesses move from theory to action, ensuring that ethics and responsibility remain at the heart of innovation.

About Acclaim Limited

Founded in 2006, Acclaim Limited is a licensed trust and corporate services provider based in the Isle of Man. We support international clients with tailored solutions in structuring, estate planning, asset protection, accounting, and through our Acclaim Insights division, AI education and strategy.

We believe the future of business lies in smart, ethical growth, and we’re proud to help lead that future from right here on the Island.

About the Open Data Institute (ODI)

The ODI is a non-profit company, founded in 2012 by Sir Tim Berners-Lee and Sir Nigel Shadbolt. At the ODI, the mission is to work with companies and governments to build an open, trustworthy data ecosystem. ODI works with a range of organisations, governments, public bodies and civil society to create a world where data works for everyone.

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