Kathryn Parsons

Kathryn Parsons is a trailblazer in the world of technology and cyber security education. As the Founder and CEO of Decoded, she has revolutionised the way organisations and individuals understand and engage with digital technologies. What began in 2011 as a bold mission to teach anyone to code in a day has since become a global force in technology education, empowering the workforces of the Global 2,000, policymakers, and small businesses across every industry. Kathryn’s passion for demystifying technology and making it accessible to all has made her one of the most respected voices on the cyber security speaking circuit.

Under Kathryn’s leadership, Decoded has become synonymous with cutting-edge digital upskilling, offering academies and bootcamps in software development, data analytics, product management, and cyber security. Her company’s sought-after workshops tackle complex topics like AI, data ethics, and secure digital transformation with clarity and insight—making her a natural choice for organisations looking to rapidly enhance their cyber resilience. A former Non-Executive Director at the UK’s Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, Kathryn also played a key role in national policy development around tech talent, apprenticeships, and digital leadership.

Kathryn’s influence extends beyond the boardroom. She was instrumental in the campaign to make coding mandatory on the UK National Curriculum—a policy introduced in 2014, placing the UK among the first countries globally to prioritise computational thinking in classrooms. For this contribution to education, she was awarded an MBE by Her Majesty The Queen. A regular columnist for The Times, Kathryn continues to shape public discourse on the impact of technology, cyber security and AI on society.

Recognised by the FT, Computer Weekly, and The Sunday Times among the most influential women in technology, Kathryn is a compelling and authoritative speaker. Her deep understanding of digital literacy, combined with her ability to inspire cultural change, makes her a vital voice in today’s cyber security landscape. Hire Kathryn Parsons via The Cyber Security Speakers Agency to bring cutting-edge insight, clarity and impact to your next event.