Carol Parillon is an Architecture Leader at NatWest with over 25 years’ experience designing technical systems that enable innovation. She leads Data Architecture for the bank’s Retail Data Transformation Programme, ensuring data drives better, more inclusive customer outcomes. Before NatWest, Carol spent almost 20 years at Shell, latterly as Chief Data Architect. She also served a two-year term as Data and Operations Officer for EDI (Everything Diversity and Inclusion), strengthening programme structures and embedding data-driven inclusion – support she continues to provide today. Believing architecture must be equitable by design, Carol runs mentoring circles and work-experience programmes that break down barriers for underrepresented talent entering technology. Her industry leadership includes serving on the judging panel for the Everywoman in Technology Awards, championing women and leaders in senior technical roles. Carol’s career blends large-scale data transformation with advocacy, ensuring the next generation of tech talent is as diverse as the communities it serves.