Computer Weekly Reveals 2026 Most Influential Women in UK Tech
Karen Blake leads the 2026 list highlighting female leadership across UK technology sectors.
1Annual Recognition of Leadership
Computer Weekly has announced its 2026 list of the most influential women in UK technology. Karen Blake, head of EDIS, secured the top spot as the 15th individual to receive this honor. The initiative, launched in 2012, aims to increase visibility for women who drive significant change across the British tech landscape.
2Selection Process and Growth
The program has expanded significantly since its inception, growing from 25 honorees in 2012 to 50 today. This year, the longlist featured over 870 nominations, reflecting a robust interest in recognizing diverse talent. Expert judges evaluate candidates based on their lifetime contributions, leadership roles, and potential for future impact within the sector.
3Karen Blake’s Strategic Impact
Karen Blake currently leads Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in Science and Health. Her background includes serving as co-CEO of the Tech Talent Charter and co-authoring the Lovelace Report. She previously worked as a senior researcher for the House of Commons, focusing specifically on digital inclusion policies and inclusive workforce strategy advisory roles.
4Corporate and Innovation Leadership
Deborah O’Neill, head of technology innovation at Oliver Wyman, represents the corporate sector's influence on the list. She manages performance transformation across the UK, Ireland, and the Nordics. Her work involves leading digital transformation initiatives and new proposition launches, alongside her strategic partnership duties at FutureDotNow and board trusteeship for Girlguiding.
5Security and Public Policy
The list includes high-level public sector figures like Blaise Metreweli, the head of MI6. Angela McLean, the government’s chief scientific adviser, is also recognized for her work in mathematical biology. Additionally, Danielle George, the chief scientific adviser for national security at GCHQ, brings over 25 years of engineering expertise to the public sector.
6Entrepreneurship and Venture Capital
Mary McKenna and Erin Platts highlight the role of investment in the tech ecosystem. McKenna supports female founders through AwakenHub, while Platts leads Octopus Ventures. Both women actively contribute to industry taskforces, focusing on scaling businesses and promoting diversity within the venture capital and finance sectors across the United Kingdom.
7Focus on Artificial Intelligence
Zahra Shah leads AI-focused initiatives, serving as a board adviser for NexaQuanta and chair of the UKAI Women in AI Working Group. Her work spans AI privacy, consent management, and investment committees. She represents the growing necessity for responsible governance and ethical oversight in the rapidly evolving artificial intelligence technology market.
8Media and Digital Advocacy
Zoe Kleinman, the technology and AI editor for BBC News, represents the media's role in shaping public understanding of tech. Meanwhile, Samantha Niblett, an MP and founder of Labour: Women in Tech, campaigns for gender equality. These leaders bridge the gap between technical developments and the broader societal impact of digital transformation.
9Inclusive Technology Initiatives
Claire Reid of PwC and Amy Low of AbilityNet focus on creating inclusive environments. Reid serves as chief technology and innovation officer, while Low leads a charity dedicated to reducing barriers in work and education. Their efforts ensure that technological advancements remain accessible to diverse populations across various professional and social sectors.
10Open Source and Infrastructure
Amanda Brock leads OpenUK, focusing on the sustainable development of open source software and hardware. Akua Opong, an engineer at the London Stock Exchange, contributes to accessibility networks and STEM mentorship. Their work emphasizes the importance of open standards and infrastructure in maintaining a robust and equitable technology ecosystem in Britain.
11DeepMind and Defense Roles
Lila Ibrahim, chief AI readiness officer at Google DeepMind, brings 30 years of experience to the list. Sarah Winmill, the digital functional leader for the Royal Navy, manages complex information systems. These roles demonstrate the critical nature of technical leadership within both global AI research organizations and national defense infrastructure.
12Legacy of the List
The 2026 list underscores the diverse pathways to influence, from venture capital to government advisory. By highlighting these 50 women, Computer Weekly continues to foster a more inclusive tech culture. The recognition serves as a benchmark for future progress, encouraging continued representation and leadership development across all levels of the industry.