20 Women in Data: Driving innovation and championing diversity

In an era defined by rapid digital transformation, women are making extraordinary contributions to analytics, governance, and innovation. Yet, despite this progress, female representation in data roles still lags behind. According to Women in Data UK, women now make up 25% of data professionals in the UK—a figure that, while promising, underscores the need for continued momentum.
These inspiring women are not only leading the charge in data-driven decision-making but also breaking barriers and redefining leadership in a sector that is critical to the future of business and society. Their work is shaping industries, advancing technology, and ensuring that data remains a powerful force for positive change.
We are delighted to spotlight 20 exceptional women who are at the forefront of the data revolution—role models who are paving the way for the next generation and proving that diversity in data is not just necessary but transformational.

Helen Hunter

Title: Chief Data & Analytics Officer at Barclays UK

Bio: Helen Hunter is the Chief Data & Analytics Officer at Barclays UK, where she leads data strategy, AI implementation, and analytics to drive business transformation. With extensive experience in retail and financial services, she previously served as Chief Data Officer at Sainsbury’s, focusing on customer insights and digital innovation.

Follow her on: LinkedIn

Dizem Ozalp Sari

Title: Director, Head of Data at BNP Paribas

Bio: Dizem Ozalp Sari is the Head of Data Services at BNP Paribas, specialising in digital transformation, data analytics, Machine Leaning Operations, and IT architecture for cloud and hybrid systems. With experience in financial services across Turkey, France, and the UK, she previously led the Global Data and Analytics Platform team at HSBC. Recognised as a role model in data and technology, she was named one of Women in Data UK’s 20 role models and a face of the #GirlsinData campaign.

Follow her on: LinkedIn

Roisin McCarthy

Title: Co-Founder at Women in Data

Bio: Roisin McCarthy is a seasoned talent acquisition specialist with over two decades of experience in the data and analytics sector. As the co-founder of Women in Data, she is dedicated to increasing diversity and inclusion within the data industry by providing a platform that supports and empowers women professionals. Her extensive background in recruitment and her commitment to community building have made significant impacts on bridging the gender gap in data-related fields.

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Kate Strachnyi

Title: Data and AI Content Creator at DATAcated

Bio: A data science and risk management expert, Kate Strachnyi specialises in governance and regulatory solutions for financial institutions. She is the author of the book Journey to Data Scientist, featuring insights from leading data professionals. With experience in data visualisation and analytics, she helps organisations translate complex data into actionable insights.

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Salema Rice

Title: CEO at IntelliCon Global

Bio: Salema Rice is an internationally recognised leader in data, AI, and technology innovation, serving as the CEO of IntelliCon Global. With over 25 years of experience, she has led AI transformations and digital strategies for Fortune 500 companies, previously holding executive roles at Accenture, Bain Capital, and Allegis Group. A top influencer in AI and data, Salema is a sought-after speaker featured in CNBC, Forbes, and Gartner. She is dedicated to mentoring leaders and driving AI’s societal impact through innovation and strategic collaboration.

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Indhira Mani

Title: Chief Data Officer at RSA Insurance

Bio: Indhira Mani is the Chief Data Officer at RSA Insurance, where she drives data strategy to create a competitive edge. With two decades of experience in financial services, she has led complex data and technology initiatives at institutions like Danske Bank, Deutsche Bank, BNP Paribas, RBS, and Barclays. She also serves as a governing body member of the Gartner Evanta CDAO network.

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Maria Harris

Title: Director at Digital Cal Consultancy Ltd

Bio: Maria Harris is the Chair of the Open Property Data Association (OPDA), leading the development of open property data standards across government and industry. She also provides mortgage transformation services through her consultancy, Digital Cat, and serves as a Non-Executive Director at United Trust Bank. Previously, as Director of Lending at Atom Bank, she designed and launched the UK’s first fully digital mortgage. With over 25 years of leadership experience, she is a strong advocate for diversity, financial wellbeing, and the role of technology in banking.

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Ravneet Shah

Title: Chief Technology Officer at Allica Bank

Bio: Ravneet Shah is the Chief Technology Officer at Allica Bank, where she has been leading technology strategy since January 2020. With over a decade of experience in software engineering, Ravneet has previously worked at Evari Insure and Santander UK, honing expertise in Java, Kotlin, Spring Boot, and cloud technologies. She also has a strong background in microservices, TDD, and various programming languages and frameworks. Ravneet holds dual bachelor’s degrees in computer engineering and computer science from Guru Nanak Dev University.

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Julie Smith

Title: Director of Data at CDP

Bio: Julie Smith is an experienced data governance and management professional with a passion for helping organisations unlock the value of their data. With extensive experience in data strategy, stewardship, and compliance, she works with businesses to establish strong governance frameworks that drive efficiency and regulatory adherence. A sought-after speaker and consultant, Julie is dedicated to educating teams on best practices in data management and fostering a data-driven culture.

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Cansu Subasi

Title: Global Product Owner at HSBC

Bio: Cansu Subasi is an experienced Global Product Owner specialising in data analytics and technology solutions within commercial banking. She leads strategic initiatives to develop scalable, competitive data-driven solutions in a changing regulatory landscape. Her work ensures that technology is streamlined and aligns with senior stakeholder priorities.

She has worked with leading financial institutions to implement effective data strategies that enhance decision-making and operational efficiency. Cansu helps organisations establish strong governance frameworks to maximize the value of their data assets.

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Nicola Askham

Title: Founder of The Data Governance Coach

Bio: Nicola Askham is a leading expert in data governance, helping organisations design and implement effective frameworks to manage their data assets. With extensive experience as a consultant and trainer, she has worked with major corporations to establish best practices in data management. Through her coaching and training programs, Nicola empowers businesses to enhance data quality, compliance, and strategic decision-making.

Follow her on: LinkedIn | Website

Debbie Lawrence

Title: Group Head, Data Strategy & Management at LSEG

Bio: Debbie Lawrence is a data governance and management expert with extensive experience in data strategy, quality, and compliance. She has worked across various industries, helping organisations implement robust data governance frameworks that drive operational excellence and regulatory adherence. Debbie specialises in developing best practices for metadata management, data stewardship, and business intelligence.

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Nina Tjarks

Title: Director at BNY

Bio: Nina Tjarks is an experienced Data Management professional with a strong background in the financial services industry. She specialises in data quality implementations and business analysis, helping organisations optimise their data strategies. Nina holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Monash University. Her expertise in managing data governance and quality ensures that businesses are well-positioned to meet both operational and regulatory requirements.

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Emilie LeBlanc

Title: Data Governance Officer at Spuerkeess (Banque et Caisse d’Épargne de l’État)

Bio: Emilie LeBlanc is a long-serving data governance professional with extensive experience in establishing and leading data management frameworks within the banking industry. As Data Governance Officer at Spuerkeess, Luxembourg’s state savings bank, she focuses on implementing robust data strategies that ensure compliance, enhance data quality, and drive informed decision-making.

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Elena Gorohhova

Title: Chief Data Officer at Luminor Bank

Bio: Elena Gorohhova is a seasoned data governance and management professional with extensive experience in the banking and financial services industry. As Chief Data Officer at Luminor Group, she leads initiatives to enhance data quality, compliance, and strategic data utilisation. With a strong background in risk management and regulatory frameworks, Elena plays a key role in ensuring data-driven decision-making and aligning governance practices with business objectives.

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Lynn Watts

Title: Head of Data Management and Governance at Royal London Asset Management

Bio: Lynn Watts is an established data governance and management expert with extensive experience in the financial sector. As Head of Data Management and Governance at Royal London Asset Management, she leads strategic initiatives to enhance data quality, ensure regulatory compliance, and optimise data governance frameworks. With a deep understanding of risk management and business intelligence, Lynn plays a crucial role in driving data-driven decision-making and operational excellence.

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Sonali Bhavsar

Title: Managing Director at Accenture

Bio: Sonali Bhavsar is a Managing Director at Accenture, leading the Global Data Management and Governance practice. With over 22 years of experience, she specialises in data and AI transformation, focussing on helping enterprises build robust data foundations, data mesh frameworks, and AI-driven solutions across industries such as retail, financial services, and life sciences. Sonali is also an advocate for diversity and inclusion, championing women in leadership and supporting initiatives like STEM Goes Red.

Follow her on: LinkedIn

Ashwini Suresh

Title: Data Governance Manager at Accenture

Bio: Ashwini Suresh is a Data Governance Manager at Accenture, working within the Chief Data Office (CDO). She specialises in developing and implementing data governance frameworks, ensuring data quality, security, and privacy compliance. Ashwini collaborates across various domains, including Capital Markets, B2B, and Supply Chain, driving data management initiatives such as data cataloguing, risk data aggregation, and data product implementation. With over 8 years of experience, she promotes best practices in data governance and project management.

Follow her on: LinkedIn

Antonia Tan

Title: Director at KPMG UK

Antonia Tan is a Director at KPMG UK, where she leads the Digital Lighthouse team in Financial Services Data Analytics. With a strong background in technology risk consulting, Antonia has been with KPMG since 2013, helping clients navigate complex data and analytics challenges in the financial sector. Prior to her role in the UK, she worked as an Assistant Manager at KPMG Germany, specialising in technology risk consulting for the banking industry.

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Soofia Noor

Title: Director and Head of Risk Technology, Capital Markets at EY

Soofia Noor is the Director and Head of Risk Technology for Capital Markets at EY, specialising in ESG, risk, and finance transformation. With a strong background in regulatory interpretation, technology solutions, and business strategy, she has led key initiatives such as FRTB, Generative AI in risk, and sustainable finance regulatory interpretation. Soofia has successfully managed complex regulatory projects across Tier 1 global banks, including BCBS 239, Basel 3, and carbon market initiatives. She is also known for her leadership in risk technology and delivering impactful change in financial services.

Follow her on: LinkedIn

The Future of Women in Data

As we conclude, it’s clear that the contributions of these incredible women in the data space are invaluable. Their leadership, expertise, and vision are driving transformative change across industries, breaking down barriers, and paving the way for future generations of women in data. The progress we’ve seen so far is just the beginning, and the work of these trailblazers will continue to inspire and shape the future of data, technology, and analytics. Let’s celebrate their achievements and keep pushing for greater representation and inclusion in the field.