From 2003 to 2016 she worked for the Charity Commission as Head of Policy Engagement and Research. While there she led on the development of the Annual Return, the revision of guidance on campaigning and political activity and the establishment of a new research and horizon scanning function. She managed the Research Reports team and a programme of research which included longitudinal research on levels of public trust and confidence in charities. Prior to that Caroline worked at the disability charity Scope in a range of roles, including as acting Head of Public Policy and Research. More recently Caroline moved from the Charity Commission back into the charity sector where she worked at the British Geriatrics Society; the membership body for health professionals working with older people, to establish their policy and influencing function.

Caroline holds an MSc in Voluntary Sector Organisation and Administration from the London School of Economics.