7. Craig Brabec, senior vice president, chief data analytics officer, Best Buy

My career path has been anything but straight, more of a winding excursion full of exciting challenges over the past 25 years. This included leadership in corporate strategy and data analytics as well as manufacturing, construction, healthcare, supply chain and management consulting. Starting first in the United States Navy, I’ve traversed through Deloitte, Caterpillar, McKesson, Ford Motor Company, McDonalds and now Best Buy. The past decade has been focused directly in data analytics.  

As Best Buy’s senior vice president, chief data analytics officer, the current leg on my journey is infusing data use for value across the enterprise. I am leading enterprise transformation, establishing a best-in-class data strategy with advanced analytics and evangelizing these changes throughout Best Buy.  

I enjoy advancing our profession, serving on professional councils focused on advanced analytics and digital transformation. I advocate and mentor for the advancement of STEM programs across the globe, including USFIRST Robotics. I now also serve as an adjunct instructor at the Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy at Carnegie Mellon University and previously advised other colleges and universities on data analytics curricula. 

I am fortunate to lead a diverse team passionate about data and drives positive change for Best Buy. They make me a better leader every day and I am inspired by them.