Theme: Thought leaders discussion on the geospatial transition

Matthew Pennells is a digital transformation professional, specialising in location intelligence, with an extensive international career in public, private and voluntary sectors. Currently Matthew leads Global Community Engagement for Esri.

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.

Aaron Addison serves as the Executive Director for the World Geospatial Industry Council (WGIC) Secretariat where his focus is geospatial industry outreach working with companies and organizations around the globe on challenges related to the policy, implementation and communication of geospatial data. His 30 years of international experience includes extensive work in the public and private sectors as well as NGOs and higher education institutions. In addition to leading the Secretariat, Addison currently provides leadership for WGICactivities in education, workforce development, digital twins and recently initiated GeoAction Africa project examining the contributions that geospatial tools and services may provide to countries in Africa. In addition to his operational and project management roles, he also staffs the WGIC Policy and IndustryAcademia committees working to bring education and research together with geospatial industry.?