As the UK’s data protection regulator, we want to ensure that our workforce represents the communities that we serve. Working with Women in Data® aligns closely with our organisational commitment to EDI and directly supports our EDI objectives.
We are excited to become a member of Women in Data® to draw on their expertise in inclusive practices, community engagement, and talent development. We want to attract more women in data and tech, support our existing workforce, foster allyship and strengthen our use of data.
At the ICO, we’ve teamed up with Women in Data® because we want to make a difference! Around two-thirds of ICO employees are women, and we’re rightly proud of how we create space for women to have fulfilling careers in lots of different data specialisms. We still see a great opportunity though: to support women across the wider industry, and attract more women to parts of the ICO where we have lower female representation such as in our Digital, Data and Technology team. We’re looking forward to working closely with Women in Data on that mission.
When we think about the future of data, it’s easy to get caught up in the challenges, complexities, and uncertainties. If the last five years are any indication, we’re in for quite a ride!
But as we look ahead to 2030 and beyond, there’s a lot to be hopeful about.
First off, more people are becoming aware of the importance of data privacy and ethics. Assisted by organisations like the ICO, people are growing in knowledge and confidence to hold companies and public services to account. As a result, organisations are making it a priority to innovate responsibly when it comes to personal data.
Data is becoming a bigger part of our daily lives, driving business transformation at both individual and industry levels in exciting and disruptive ways. The applications of data through AI and automation can create new jobs – and better-paying ones – while freeing people up to do more meaningful work.
We’re also seeing more diversity in talent and perspectives in the industry. This promises a future where data and insights are more representative and outcomes more inclusive.
There’s still work to be done, though. We need to work together to ensure this positive future becomes a reality for everyone, with equity and compassion. It’s only then that the ICO’s own purpose – to empower people through information – is possible.
As the UK’s independent regulator for data protection and information rights law, we safeguard and empower people by upholding information rights, enabling us all to confidently contribute to a thriving society and sustainable economy.
We make it easier for people to understand their rights and how their personal information is used, setting clear expectations of what the law requires and safeguarding people who are at risk. Data is at the heart of what we do and what we regulate, and we know how important it is to ensure our workforce represents the communities and societies we serve.
Rachel Bennett
Intelligence Group Manager
As Group Manager in the Intelligence department at the Information Commissioner’s Office, I work in a team dedicated to transforming raw data into meaningful intelligence that supports decision-making across the organisation. Our work involves identifying patterns and trends, evaluating the credibility of sources, and predicting future events—bridging the gap between data specialists and non-technical colleagues.
My career began as a criminal investigator at the ICO, following my time at the Home Office. With an academic background in Social Policy and Law, I bring a critical perspective on how data practices shape society, alongside a strong foundation in both qualitative and quantitative research.
Throughout my career, I’ve seen first-hand the importance of using robust analysis to make decisions—connecting technical insights with real-world outcomes. I am passionate about ensuring that data is used to inform regulatory decisions that are grounded in evidence and aligned with the public good.
As a woman in data, I am proud to lead a diverse team and to champion the value of inclusive and impactful intelligence work.
Veena Prabhakar – Data Engineer
My journey into IT began out of curiosity and as an inspiration from my sister. But once I dipped my toes into the world of data, especially SQL, what started as a casual step quickly grew into a full-blown passion.
I’ve sailed through data as an ETL developer, analyst, specialist, and now an engineer, balancing deep solo dives with leading as a trusted expert. My master’s in Data Science and Advanced Computing sharpened my dual lens: the curiosity of a data scientist and the precision of an engineer.
Today, my role sits at the intersection of policy and practice, supporting the ICO’s mission to uphold information rights in a data-driven world. By combining precision, efficiency, and ethical data use, I help the ICO harness data to excel in the digital age. I design and deliver secure, scalable data solutions that support regulatory goals and uncover insights for smarter decisions.
What keeps me hooked on data is its versatility; how a postcode can guide retail strategy or save lives in an emergency. This evolution combined with traversing the waters of ever-evolving technologies like Fabric, SQL, Python, Spark, Power BI, and beyond, keep me curious.
Outside the office, you’ll find me blending colours on canvas, other times experimenting with makeup, or channelling my inner chef in the kitchen. Whether it’s a spatula or a script, I love learning and creating in all forms.
Marianne Morgan
Insight and Evaluation Manager
I specialise in communications research and evaluation, with a particular focus on making data meaningful and useful.
My current role is Insight and Evaluation Manager at the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), but I was previously Director of Research and Analytics in a communications consultancy and I’ve also been a board director for the Association for the Measurement and Evaluation of Communications (AMEC).
My path into data was a bit unconventional – I studied English at university and spent the first ten years of my career as a communications professional, working more with words than numbers. That background has shaped how I approach data: I’m passionate about making insights accessible and actionable, especially for non-specialists.
When the opportunity came up to build a research and measurement function from scratch at the comms agency Citypress, I leapt at the chance. Over the next decade, I helped embed data-led decision-making into campaign planning and evaluation, growing the team into an award-winning unit. We were named AMEC’s Small Research and Measurement Team of the Year three times, and developed a new globally recognised methodology for measuring impact.
I advised clients including Aldi, Pets at Home, eBay and Coca-Cola European Partners. Now at the ICO, I help shape reporting that captures the real-world impact of our work and uncovers insights to strengthen our communications and engagement.
What I enjoy most is data storytelling—translating trends and findings into clear, compelling narratives that help people make better decisions. I also care deeply about showing that you don’t need to be a maths or coding expert to work with data. The field benefits from people who can bridge the gap between analysis and action, and I love being part of that.
Jenni Thompson
Senior Data Analyst – Regulatory Cyber Directorate
I am the Senior Data Analyst in the Regulatory Cyber directorate at the ICO. I started out my data career attribute coding for a worldwide data company and creating large scale databases for their clients. I enjoy analysing interesting data, which is what drew me to cyber and cyber-crime data. Data enables me to make decisions backed by research and to make the best decision I can with the information I have.
Data skills come from many unexpected places. My degree is a BA in Linguistics and the statistical and data work required in that surprises many people. It was my final year module in forensic linguistics that really piqued my interest in data, and taught me how to build a picture with numerical evidence.
I am currently leading a project to create a cyber intelligence function at the ICO. I have been seeking out opportunities and building relationships to share data and intelligence, as well as working with intelligence colleagues to build new processes needed for the BAU of a function.
I have recently achieved professional IT Chartership with the British Computer Society in the discipline of data and analytics. Unfortunately like many women in technology fields, I’ve experienced many challenges along the way. However, I have also been given just as much guidance to navigate them, and I aim to share my knowledge to support others where I can.
Iman El Mehdawy- Group Manager, Information Management and Compliance Service
I hold a Master of Science in Molecular Parasitology. Part of my course involved learning about bioinformatics and how to handle vast amounts of biological data (DNA). This is when I developed an appreciation of how data can and does change lives. Getting involved in the transfer of information caught by the Public Records Act to the National Archives opened my eyes on the wealth of data left to us, from the Doomsday Book to the World War Two datasets and how valuable this data is.
In my current position at the ICO, I manage data to optimise our use of datasets and information while ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and established best practices. My role also covers data governance tasks such as creating policies, procedures and guidance relating to information and data management. I am starting to get involved in governance of AI as well.
It is refreshing to feel valued and celebrated as a woman working in data. I look forward to getting involved with Women in Data and helping to encourage more access and give more confidence to women to advance their careers in data.
Helen Sunderland- Assurance Support Officer
After studying Business, I began my career in education in a senior administrative role which included managing school data. Initially, there was a reliance on paper records and limited digital school information management systems options. Over time, we adopted advanced MIS and biometric systems, increasing the volume and types of data we managed, along with the need for consent.
After gaining CIPD qualifications, I transitioned to HR, handling employee records and using performance metrics to evaluate recruitment practices and HR initiatives. I then moved into hospitality and event management, utilising data for resource allocation, identifying cost inefficiencies and reconciliation processes to ensure accurate and timely financial reporting.
Next, I worked in a project coordination role in an interior design company, using data for project scheduling, coordination and budget management.
Over three years ago, I joined the ICO, the UK’s Data Protection Regulator, in the Assurance directorate. As a Local Information Management Officer for the department, I promote data protection compliance and accountability responsibilities; I also manage the department’s Management Information and EDRM. I am currently undertaking the task of building a new MI and reporting platform.
More recently, I obtained an ISC2 cybersecurity qualification and undertook a secondment within our Regulatory Cyber directorate. I engaged with Cyber Security Insurance providers to establish data sharing with the intention to use claims data to get a better understanding of the cost of cybercrimes. This information will help us to understand resilience across sectors, the types of vulnerabilities which are likely to lead to the costliest attacks and the steps needed to recover. Additionally, I have been involved in cyber intelligence work around the use of biometrics in schools, which has taken me back full circle to the start of my career.
Outside of work, I enjoy strength training, hiking, reading and theatre.
Alison O’Connor
Head of Economic Analysis – Impact and Evaluation
I’m Head of Economic Analysis at the ICO with 15 years’ experience in data intensive roles across both the public and private sectors. As an economist, data is at the heart of everything I do. It enables my team and me to move beyond assumptions and anecdotes to uncover meaningful patterns, test hypotheses, and measure real-world impact. I have always enjoyed working with data because it brings clarity to complexity, it helps create understanding about not just what is happening, but why.
At the ICO, I oversee and provide leadership on work related to impact considerations and measurement. Data is central in my role to empowering others to make informed and impactful decisions, drawing on evidence and insight, and understanding the impacts of our interventions to ensure that we are making a material positive difference. Whether I’m evaluating the effectiveness of a policy intervention or exploring economic trends, I find satisfaction in using data to generate insights that inform decisions and drive positive change.
As a leader, I am proud to champion the use of data and to support others in unlocking its potential. Given my own career journey with data, it is important to me to support other women in data to connect, learn and grow in their careers.
I am General Counsel at the Information Commissioner’s Office, the UK regulator for personal data and Freedom of Information. I have been in this role since August 2025, leading on the ICO’s legal strategy and governance, and advising on complex data protection and information rights matters ultimately ensuring regulatory compliance and the responsible use of individuals’ data.
My career in data has centred around the theme of data guardianship, and ensuring data is used responsibly, ethically, and with legal certainty by those entrusted to it. Compliance isn’t just about following rules but about creating trust so that the value of data can be fully realised.
My route into a career in data has been via various public sector roles. Prior to joining the ICO I was General Counsel and Director of Devolution, Governance and Law at the Electoral Commission. This followed a variety of legal posts in the Government Legal Department, most recently as head of the legal team responsible for data protection and civil society at the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), where I led on reforming data protection policy and legislation, dealing with data issues arising out of Brexit, and delivering government initiatives in civil society policy.
Working in data is a broad topic which I find varied and fascinating. I can put my wide range of experience in policy making, regulation, and law to good use. The work we do has real world implications and it is important to bring diverse perspectives to tackling the challenges in data.
It’s incredibly important to me that everyone has the opportunity to get involved in the sector and type of work that interests them, regardless of background, gender or ethnicity. That’s why initiatives such as Women In Data – and the ICO’s Women’s Network, of which I am the Executive Sponsor – play such an important role in overcoming barriers that would otherwise remain incredibly challenging to surmount, and we need to continue promoting equal opportunities and inclusion for everyone.
