Paula McLeod is head of the Statistics Profession in the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. She leads the network of statisticians and data enthusiasts working across the FCDO to promote the responsible use of trustworthy, inclusive data to strengthen our understanding of what works in international development and diplomacy, increase impact and enhance progress towards achieving the SDGs. She has built a career on the foundations of data and analysis, informing decision-making, action and ultimately – a better world.