This is a profile from the 2022 version of the DataIQ 100.
The latest list is available here.
David Henderson, chief geospatial officer, Ordnance Survey
What has been your path to power?
I’ve always been fascinated by the power of mapping, of geospatial data and technologies, and I’ve been blessed with the good fortune of being able to spend all of my career working directly with location data. Starting out in survey and photogrammetry and after completing a Masters in Geographic Information Science, I spent the formative years of my career developing the geospatial capabilities of a leading environment consulting firm in their environment modelling practice.
Subsequently, I’ve spent the last 20 years of my career at Ordnance Survey contributing to the continued growth of one of the world’s leading geospatial knowledge businesses. From roles in technical consultancy to leadership roles in product management and delivery of our public task, today I lead the development of our company strategy and the core geospatial capabilities that define Ordnance Survey’s position, reputation and contribution as a leader in the national and international geospatial industry.
Along the way I have worked with amazing colleagues, challenging managers and mentors, and have had the good fortune of spending time in the company of some of the most innovative and inspirational geospatial leaders – both here in UK and internationally.
What impact has the pandemic had on the role of data in your company/organisation?
As a world leading geospatial service provider, data has been well established as both a core asset and core capability for a long time in Ordnance Survey. However, the last two years have served as a wider reminder of the role of our location data in ensuring the resilience of a nation, whilst at the same time highlighting the important, yet often overlooked, unique aspects of foundational data that play a unifying role in what has become a highly connected digital ecosystem. As we develop our data capabilities further, the demand for timely and actionable insight which is both authoritative and trusted is at the heart of our strategic planning.
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