At the Home Office, technology plays a vital role in keeping people safe, delivering essential services, and supporting national security. Behind this work are dedicated and experienced professionals like Katie, Director of Police and Public Protection Technology (PPPT) in Digital, Data and Technology (DDaT). In this interview, Katie shares her journey into tech leadership, the impact of her work, and her experience building a career as a woman in public sector technology.
How did you get started in tech and what inspired you to pursue this path?
My civil service career spans 25 years. It’s hard to believe, really! I started out leading a casework team and later moved into policy development. During that time, a major transformation programme was on the horizon, focused on centralising corporate functions, and it included a significant technology element.
That was a turning point. I was keen to be involved, to help shape solutions and improve processes. It was my first experience working alongside technology professionals and that really lit the spark for me. From then on, I’ve consistently worked in transformation programmes where technology has been key.
What drew me in was the focus on solving problems and improving people’s experience. It’s motivating to know that your work has made something better, more efficient, or more user-friendly for colleagues, users, and the wider public.
What attracted you to the Home Office and what keeps you motivated here?
Even straight out of university, I was drawn to public service. I’ve always felt a strong sense of purpose working for the public good. Joining the Home Office was a natural step; it’s such a vital department that impacts people’s lives every day.
What’s kept me here is the variety and importance of the work. There’s never been a shortage of interesting, meaningful projects. You really feel like you’re making a difference, and that’s incredibly motivating.
Can you share what your role involves on a day-to-day basis?
No two days are the same, that’s for sure. There are a lot of conversations, whether in programme boards, leadership meetings or one-to-ones with my team. I might move from discussing technical strategy to resolving a live service issue or supporting colleagues through decision-making.
A big part of the role is about navigating complex challenges, balancing different risks, setting direction, and ensuring the right outcomes. I also work closely with a fantastic group of around 500 civil servants and a similar number of third-party colleagues. It’s a big, capable team and I value the opportunity to work with them.
Are there any key projects you’ve led that you’re particularly proud of?
Absolutely. It’s difficult to pick just one, as there are several transformation programmes within PPPT that I’ve been fortunate to be involved with, each supported by a capable and dedicated team. That said, one area I find particularly inspiring right now is the work we’re doing in close partnership with policing stakeholders.
What makes this work so meaningful is the tangible impact it’s having on frontline policing. We’re helping to equip officers with modern technology services that give them better access to real-time data, which is a significant step forward. For example, the transition from the Police National Computer to the new Law Enforcement Data Service is a game-changer in how data is accessed and used operationally.
We’re also making strides in areas like biometric technology and automated number plate recognition. These tools not only help streamline policing operations but also offer powerful ways to generate insights and tackle emerging threats more proactively.
It’s genuinely exciting to see how technology can support more effective, responsive policing. From everything I’ve seen, those within the police service truly recognise just how crucial these innovations are to modern policing. It’s a space I’m proud to contribute to.
As a woman in tech, what has your experience been like in a traditionally male-dominated field?
Honestly, my experience has been very positive. I’ve had great support from colleagues, both men and women, and from my managers throughout my career.
That said, I’ve also had to be clear with myself about my value. I’ve learned to own the fact that I deserve to be in the room, to contribute, and to lead. Confidence is key, and that often starts from within. Over time, I’ve seen more women come into leadership roles in tech and policing, which is hugely encouraging.
Do you have any advice for women and girls considering a career in technology, especially in the public sector?
Go for it. Technology is part of everything we do, and we need diverse voices shaping how it works and who it works for.
Don’t assume you need a technical background to start. Tech roles often benefit from transferable skills. If you can, speak to women already in tech. It can make a huge difference to hear their stories and see what’s possible.
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If you’re interested in joining Home Office DDaT, explore current roles on our Careers Page.
