(EMEA) The UK government’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) has appointed Lindsay Mason as Interim Government Chief Data Officer (CDO). She took on the role in June 2025, joining the Government Digital Service (GDS) at a time when the government is recruiting a permanent successor.

Mason brings over a decade of experience in data strategy and governance across both public and private sectors. Before her current appointment, she served as Head of Data Management, Governance and Skills Development at the Ministry of Defence from 2022 to 2025. Prior to that, she held senior data leadership roles at John Lewis Partnership, including Data Governance Lead and Data Management Strategy Lead.

As Interim CDO, Mason is responsible for coordinating the UK government’s data strategy, with a focus on improving data quality, promoting common standards, and enhancing data sharing across public services. The role is also tasked with addressing data foundations identified in the recent State of Digital Government review.

With a background in fashion merchandising before transitioning into data, Mason is known for her nontraditional career path and her focus on empowering people through data. She describes herself as a passionate data leader with a strong track record in managing complex teams, stakeholder engagement, and driving a data-centric culture.