The UKHO is proud to partner with Women in Data® in support of our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, including fostering an open culture, enabling everyone to feel safe to contribute and to improving life at work for all employees.
This partnership enables us to continue to build a community where we can promote networking, mentorship, leadership and a more representative gender balance in data, digital and technology roles.
Over the next five years, the UKHO data landscape will become more integrated, automated and connected. Data will increasingly be managed and consumed as real-time services rather than static products, supported by modern cloud-based platforms and greater use of AI to automate processing, improve quality assurance and generate insight.
Ownership of data will continue to move closer to business domains within a stronger enterprise framework for governance, standards and interoperability. This will enable trusted data sharing across government, industry and international partners, supporting maritime safety, national security and the transition to new standards such as S-100. It will also support growing demand for data-centric services and increased automation across the organisation.
As data becomes more widely shared and reused, confidence in its quality, provenance and lineage will become increasingly important. Organisations that can demonstrate trust and transparency in their data will be better placed to innovate and scale. The workforce will also continue to evolve, bringing together data, digital and domain disciplines to accelerate delivery and maximise the value of data as a strategic asset.
The UKHO is a world-leading authority in marine geospatial data, powering safer, smarter use of our oceans. From supporting defence and global shipping to advancing ocean understanding, we turn complex data into actionable insight. We are executive agency of the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) and operates as a trading fund. We are self-funded andblend innovation, collaboration and global reach to help partners navigate challenges and unlock new opportunities across the world’s ocean and coastlines.
Sarah Gauntlett Data Protection & Compliance Manager
My role is to focus on helping the organisation handle data responsibly, securely, and in line with GDPR. My role spans everything from managing Subject Access Requests and supporting ISO 27001 audits, advising on projects and procurements, and delivering awareness campaigns that make data protection practical and relatable for colleagues.
My career has developed through hands-on experience in data protection, governance, and information security within a Ministry of Defence environment, alongside ongoing professional development by completing my level 3 Apprenticeship in 2025. I’ve always been drawn to roles that combine problem-solving with people engagement, I’ve a strong focus on working and helping others in whatever capacity and translating complex requirements into something clear and workable and not so scary or problematic.
What I enjoy most about UKHO is the collaborative culture and the opportunity to genuinely influence how people think about and use data. No two days are the same, and I value being able to make a tangible difference across the organisation. I genuinely love working at the UKHO it’s a fantastic organisation, and being part of such a supportive, collaborative, and talented team makes it even more rewarding every day.
Outside of work, I have a beautiful family. I’m married with two children who keep me very busy outside of work. I enjoy staying active, getting outdoors, and switching off with friends and family. I also have a keen interest in personal development and keeping up with the ever-evolving world of data protection and cyber security.
Shraddha Chavan Lead Test Automation Engineer
I am a Lead Test Automation Engineer at the UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO), where I have worked since June 2023. With a background in Software Engineering and an MBA, I have spent over 17 years working in quality assurance, test automation, and engineering leadership roles. Throughout my career, I have been passionate about helping teams deliver high-quality digital products and data-driven services while driving continuous improvement in quality engineering practices.
What I enjoy most about working at UKHO is its inclusive and supportive culture. I value being part of a diverse organisation where people genuinely care about the products and services they build and are always willing to go above and beyond to support one another. I feel listened to, trusted, and empowered to contribute to strategic initiatives that help shape the organisation’s future. The combination of collaboration, innovation, and purpose makes UKHO a rewarding place to work.
Outside of work, I love spending time with my family and enjoy dancing, singing, and listening to music. I’m naturally curious and enjoy keeping up to date with the latest developments in technology, particularly emerging trends in AI, digital innovation, and data. I enjoy learning how new technologies can solve real-world challenges and create positive change. As someone who has built a long-standing career in technology, I am passionate about encouraging more women to explore opportunities in digital and data roles and helping to create inclusive workplaces where everyone can thrive. Looking ahead, I hope to continue driving innovation through technology, mentoring future talent, and helping shape a more diverse and inclusive digital and data profession.
Joanne Lavington Senior Data Analyst
I am now a Senior Data Analyst, but my career has spanned several disciplines, all centred on working with data. My two lifelong passions, the sea and numbers, led me to a BSc in Maritime Studies focussing on marine science, which naturally aligned me to working at the UKHO. I started as a Tidal Analyst where I developed analytical and geospatial skills before moving into a Defence role.
I became Senior Oceanographic Analyst, combining operational work with postgraduate study, completing an MSc in Oceanography while providing oceanographic analysis and geospatial intelligence to the Royal Navy.
After years in marine science, I was keen to apply my analytical skills in a new way. The formation of the Data Analytics Team provided that opportunity, and I was successful in gaining a development role that led to my current position. Today, I specialise in management information (MI) and business intelligence (BI), using code such as Python for analysis and Power BI for visualisation to transform data into actionable insights. I love working with data in a maritime organisation and am excited to support the UKHO in growing digital skills and transitioning to being data centric.
Outside of work, I love being outdoors in the fresh air enjoying long walks or the sea. I am a keen sailor, having recently swapped my scuba gear for sails after diving since my teens.
Gina Warren-Locke Data Governance Manager
My current role is Data Governance Manager, where I help develop the UKHO’s data governance framework in line with DAMA principles. This includes shaping data policies, procedures and supporting artefacts, while working closely with colleagues across the organisation to make sure what we create is practical, useful and suited to our business environment.
I studied Geography and Environmental Management at university and joined the UKHO after graduating. I initially trained as a Cartographer, working with data to produce paper and electronic navigational charts that support safety of life at sea. I later managed teams of cartographers, before deciding I missed being closer to the data itself. That led me into data governance and management, first in a technical support role and now as Technical Lead.
What I enjoy most about working at the UKHO is the variety of data and topics I get to engage with across the organisation, and the knowledge that this work contributes to something genuinely meaningful by helping keep people safe worldwide. I also feel very fortunate to work with such a supportive and collaborative team.
Outside of work, I enjoy walking, paddleboarding and generally spending time outside in nature with my family.
Katie Gatcombe Senior Geospatial Analyst
I am a Senior Geospatial Analyst and AIS Data Steward at the UKHO, working with maritime data to support analysis, procurement and reliable dataset delivery. I collaborate with colleagues, stakeholders and suppliers to define requirements, resolve issues and ensure AIS data is used effectively across the organisation. I joined UKHO in 2014 after completing an MSc in Applied Geotechnics at Camborne School of Mines, following previous degrees in Global Environmental Change (University of Leicester) and Geology (Cardiff University). My data career began in marine cartography and chart production before moving into data analysis, including a Level 4 Data Analyst Apprenticeship, then onto my current role.
I enjoy being part of work that has a real-world impact, helping support safer navigation and making it easier for colleagues to use trusted data. I also like that my role gives me the chance to keep learning, try out different software, and have a go at new things.
Outside work, I enjoy travelling and adding to my LEGO collection.
Fill out the form below to receive our comprehensive partnership brochure.
