Bridging Sectors, Driving Change: Reflections from the Institute of Water Annual Conference

By Dr Dannielle Robb

Last week I was delighted to attend the Institute of Water’s Annual Conference, where I joined a room full of professionals committed to shaping the future of the UK’s water sector. My focus was clear: to explore how we can strengthen the vital link between the agricultural and water industries, especially as both face mounting pressures from climate change, sustainability targets, and evolving regulatory landscapes.

What stood out most during my visit was Session 2: Driving Progress Through Innovation and Technology—a powerful and inspiring panel featuring four exceptional women leading change across water, regulation, meteorology, and engineering. The session brought together:

• Dr Angela MacOscar, Head of Innovation, Northumbrian Water Group

• Jeannette Henderson, Principal, Ofwat

• Vicky Smiley, Head of Services Strategic Change, Met Office

• Sally Walters, Discipline Lead – Civil and Structural Engineering, Water, UK and Ireland, Stantec

Each speaker brought a unique perspective on how emerging technologies and innovative thinking are transforming the water sector—from predictive climate modelling and infrastructure resilience to regulatory innovation and collaborative partnerships.

But beyond the technical insights, what made this session was the all-female panel. In an industry where women are still underrepresented in leadership roles, seeing these experts share the stage was a powerful reminder of the progress we’re making—and the importance of networks like Women in Food and Farming in continuing to push for visibility, equity, and opportunity.

As someone working to better connect agriculture and water, I found the discussions deeply relevant. The challenges we face—nutrient runoff, water scarcity, soil health, and climate adaptation—require cross-sector collaboration. Innovation in water management can’t happen in isolation from farming practices, and vice versa. That’s why I was there: to listen, learn, and build bridges between our sectors.

The session reinforced the need for shared language, shared goals, and shared innovation. Whether it’s through joint research, data sharing, or policy alignment, the future of sustainable agriculture and resilient water systems depends on how well we work together.

I left the conference feeling inspired and well connected (as well as having enjoyed the Plymouth coastline!)—not just by the ideas shared, but by the women leading the charge.

Their expertise, clarity, and commitment to meaningful change are exactly what our industries need.

Let’s keep the conversation going.