Speaker profile

Rachel Butler is Defra’s Data Strategy Lead in the Chief Data Office, where she is shaping the department’s long-term approach to data and information. Her role includes developing strategic content, driving programme delivery, embedding culture change, and strengthening governance arrangements.

Rachel began her career as an Officer in the Royal Navy before moving into analytics as an Intelligence Analyst at Maritime New Zealand. She went on to lead multi-organisation analytics and intelligence programmes as a senior manager in New Zealand Public Service, before returning to the UK in 2024. As someone who has navigated a non-traditional path into data leadership, Rachel is passionate about social mobility and broadening access to careers in data. She holds an MSc in International Relations and National Security Studies and is committed to using data to connect people and inspire meaningful change.