Developing a diverse workforce

We value the individual differences of people. We are developing a diverse workforce that is representative of society so our work is relevant to the community and customers we serve. Part of this diversity includes gender balance. Laura Paterson, one of the Met Office’s Chief Meteorologists, talks about her vital contributions to the Met Office.

“When I became one of our Chief Meteorologists it was a great milestone for me and the Met Office as it was the first time a woman has taken on this role. As part of a team of Chief Meteorologists I am responsible for the National Severe Weather Warning Service and lead the Met Office management of high impact weather.

I’ve had a really interesting and varied career so far at the Met Office. Before my current role, I was Deputy Chief Meteorologist. Before that, I supported the Met Office’s Chief Executive and wider Executive Team as Private Secretary to the Chief Executive. Before that, I worked as a meteorologist in the Met Office’s Operations Centre, and onsite, at a several RAF bases around the UK and the world.

One of the most exciting things I’ve done was a five month detachment as a meteorologist to the British Antarctic Survey’s Rothera Research Base. It’s was a fantastic experience to be forecasting on location in one of the world's most challenging environments.”