The United Kingdom Civil Service has announced the appointment of Catherine Hutchinson as the new Head of Government Social Research (GSR). Hutchinson takes over the leadership role from Jenny Dibden, who managed the state analytical profession for more than 15 years.
The incoming head brings an extensive professional background to the position, having spent over 20 years working within various branches of the British Civil Service. She currently serves as the Chief Analyst, Chief Scientific Adviser and Director of Analysis and Science at the Department for Work and Pensions. Her background in high-level data analysis and science strategy will guide the professional body moving forward.
Catherine Hutchinson said: “I am excited and honoured to take on this role. GSR has shaped my entire career. I care deeply about the value social research brings to government decision-making, and about ensuring our profession is confident, influential and future-ready. We can, we will, and we already do make a difference – for the public and for each other. “I owe Jenny a huge debt of gratitude for her leadership and for being an inspiring Head of Profession to me earlier in my career. GSR is a remarkable community, and I am thrilled to lead it into its next chapter.”
The transition marks a significant shift for the organisation, which provides essential social science research to inform public policy decisions across the state. Outgoing leader Jenny Dibden noted that the professional history and collaborative approach of her successor make her highly suited to manage the next chapter of the group.
Jenny Dibden said: “Catherine brings energy, clarity of purpose and deep commitment to social research. Her cross-government experience, collaborative instinct and senior influence make her exceptionally well placed to lead the profession into its next phase.”
The Government Social Research profession functions as a widespread network of social scientists who gather evidence, analyse societal trends and evaluate public policy implementation. Members work across various Whitehall ministries to ensure that empirical evidence remains central to government policy choices. The group aims to maintain high standards of scientific integrity while adapting to modern data methods to serve the public interest.
