Bharathi joins the 2025 DataIQ 100 North America as a data leader who brings both business insight and technical expertise to the forefront of enterprise transformation. As Vice President of Data and Insights at Swire Coca-Cola, USA, and a member of the board, she has helped elevate data from a support function to a strategic lever, shaping decisions not only across the business but at board level. Her ability to align data initiatives with commercial goals, secure executive sponsorship, and lead on responsible AI and governance makes her a standout voice in a fast-evolving field. Bharathi exemplifies the kind of leader who turns data into measurable business impact, not just ambition.
I am a business-focused technologist enabling data-driven decisions and AI innovation to elevate client experiences and drive measurable business outcomes. My career spans across reputable companies such as Swire Coca-Cola, USA, UnitedHealth Group, and Goldman Sachs, where I successfully transformed intricate business requirements into efficient technological solutions.
As the Chief Data Officer, I have globally expanded teams, implemented enterprise-level data governance, collaborated on scalable business technology solutions, and improved efficiency as a board member.
I have a master’s degree in software engineering from the University of St. Thomas, MN, and a bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance from Bangalore University, India. I have also undergone training in data science for business leaders at Carnegie Mellon University.
Securing business sponsorship starts with aligning data initiatives with key strategic objectives. I ensured alignment by working closely with the executive leadership team, to define and implement data strategies that directly supported business goals.
My role as a board member further strengthens business support. By participating in board meetings, defining roadmaps, and approving budgets, I ensure that data initiatives are aligned with the broader business strategy of the top North American Coca-Cola bottlers. This active involvement fosters a sense of ownership and shared accountability, crucial for long-term success.
The data leader’s role has become and will continue to be increasingly strategic. Beyond technical expertise, success hinges on business acumen and communication. In the next 12-24 months, I anticipate a greater focus on data monetization, AI governance, and fostering data literacy across organizations. As companies embrace AI-driven decision-making, data leaders will be key in bridging the gap between technical teams and business stakeholders, ensuring data initiatives directly drive revenue and competitive advantage. They will also be at the forefront of ethical AI implementation and responsible data usage.