News story

New Interim Director appointed to the Geospatial Commission

Sarah Hodgetts has been appointed Interim Director of the Geospatial Commission.

Sarah Hodgetts today (23 October) started as Interim Director at the Geospatial Commission.

Sarah will take over the role previously held by Thalia Baldwin, following her appointment as Director for Strategy and Innovation at the Ministry of Justice. As Interim Director, Sarah will provide executive representation on the Geospatial Commission’s independent Board of Commissioners and is responsible for effective programme delivery and data contract management.

She will also be accountable for the Geospatial Commission’s annual budget and oversee strategy development, prioritisation and implementation.

Sarah joins the Geospatial Commission after developing the £14.8 billion Pioneer research and development programme.

Sarah Hodgetts’ biography

Sarah joined the Geospatial Commission after four years in science policy – including leading the creation of and setting up the Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA), the sponsorship of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and developing the £14.8 billion Pioneer research and development programme. 

Sarah has worked in policy and delivery roles for over 23 years across economic departments, HM Treasury and No 10. She has been responsible for the implementation and delivery of the government’s Industrial Strategy, led on manufacturing policy and delivered the apprenticeship levy. Her educational background is in industrial economics; she holds a diploma in management accounting and is a trained work coach.

Published 23 October 2023