Women in data at Royal London

Zukhrusa

Associate Data Scientist

Zukhrusa has an MSc in data science and analytics and a rich background in the field. Before joining us, Zukhrusa worked as a data scientist at Heathrow Airport and as a junior data analyst at Oviva, where she gained valuable experience in a fast-paced environment.

Since starting her career in 2021, she’s been focused on using machine learning and analytics to solve complex business problems. Zukhrusa specialises in natural language processing (NLP) and forecasting (classical methods to advanced machine learning techniques).

Passionate about the future of data and AI, she’s committed to continuous learning and growth. She’s also eager to support other women to enter and thrive in the field of data science, hoping to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in data.

Vicky

Data Engineer

Vicky works in our Group Data Office, working on projects to improve colleague, customer, adviser and employer experiences. She joined us in 2017, while studying a part-time BSc in data science at the Open University. Her academic studies and her enthusiasm for data problem-solving earned her a position within the data team in 2019. Vicky’s pursuing this BSc while managing work and family responsibilities and is expected to graduate with a first in 2026.

Vicky’s dedicated to developing production-ready solutions to support the work of data analysts and data scientists. Embracing new technologies, she helped launch our first cloud-based machine learning model. She’s one of two female data engineers in the our Group Data Office and aims to encourage more women to join this field.

When not debugging a pipeline, Vicky enjoys walking in the Scottish hills and cooking up delicious curries.

Cara

Chapter Lead Data Engineer

From the moment Cara got her hands on a prehistoric Amstrad computer, she was destined for a life in tech - though back then, it was more command-line based than touchscreens. Some might say she was born a geek and honestly, they wouldn't be wrong.

At 16, Cara skipped the traditional academic route, diving straight into work. A lucky break landed her a systems analyst role in a large utility company and she never looked back. A self-taught data engineer with over 25 years in the field, she spent years leading large scale data migration projects as a consultant in various organisations. One of her stand-out achievements was migrating high-value data sets for Greater Manchester Police into the Police National Database - a mission critical project where she led the full end-to-end delivery and implementation. Soon after, Cumbria police headhunted her to do the same for their data.

Passionate about all things data, especially leading data engineering teams and mentoring others, she's also witnessed the industry evolve from being overwhelmingly male dominated to a space where women are making waves. Now, she's not just building data solutions, she's helping build a more inclusive future for women in data.

Outside of work, Cara’s a proud parent who loves challenging herself with HIIT fitness classes and still brags about running the London marathon way back when. She also loves travelling and embracing the great outdoors on muddy walks with her family dog.

Daisy

Data Analytics Degree Apprentice

Daisy works in our Data Solutions team, focusing on delivering value through data analytics and visualisations, to unlock key insights and communicate these effectively to stakeholders, facilitating data-driven decision making.

Daisy’s currently pursuing a degree in digital and technology solutions, specialising in data analytics, at Manchester Metropolitan University and is set to graduate in the summer of 2025. Throughout her time with us and at university, Daisy’s enjoyed developing data skills utilising platforms such as Python, SQL, Power BI and Databricks. Following graduation, Daisy aims to hone these skills to grow her career in data analytics and obtain additional qualifications.

Having benefitted from a strong peer network herself, she recognises the importance of providing support and opportunities, as well as highlighting success stories, to allow women to feel empowered to grow and develop in any direction they choose. She believes that the Women in Data partnership will inspire and support other women in achieving their potential, especially those at the early stages of their careers.

Pam

Head of Data Management

Pam has over 25 years’ experience across financial services, energy, media, pharmaceuticals and the public sector. She started her career in data analysis before moving into business analysis and spent almost 20 years as a freelance contractor. Specialising in regulatory programs around 14 years ago, Pam has since built a reputation as a trusted data management and data governance consultant.

Pam’s steered major regulatory initiatives for some of the UK’s biggest financial institutions, ensuring compliance with various regulations, particularly BCBS 239 and GDPR. She’s known for her ability to translate complex data challenges into clear, actionable strategies, working seamlessly with stakeholders at all levels.

Beyond her career, Pam’s a proud mum of two, with a love for live music, ceilidhs and figure skating. She has more enthusiasm than talent for her interests, but like everything else, gives it a go. Pam firmly believes that “there are no stupid questions” and “if you don’t ask, you won’t get…”

Katherine

Associate Data Visualisation Engineer

Katherine’s works in our Data Visualisation team. With years of experience in various areas of customer services, including billing, alterations, commission and agency management, she’s developed a solid grasp of business processes and the data available.

This extensive background enables her to effectively discuss requirements with stakeholders, as she understands the context in which the data should be used and is aware of potential pitfalls.

Katherine’s also developing her skills in SQL, Tableau and Power BI, further enhancing her ability to create insightful and impactful data visualisations. Her expertise in data visualisation, combined with her comprehensive understanding of business processes, makes her a valuable asset to the team.