Does data now have a seat at the table during strategic discussions? If not, what will it take to get it there?
In a group of companies there are many “tables”. Currently, data has an executive sponsor at the main table. Over the first year of the data and analytics group function, we have created the role of executive data sponsors across the different luxury “maisons” (businesses), who, on top of their respective primary role, also own the data roadmaps and transversal data strategy coordination in each respective business.
What are your key areas of focus for data and analytics in 2022?
2022 is a continuation of the journey across the three data strategy levels. In business optimisation it is about further extending the successful first impacts on AI and analytics. In ramping up the data foundations, it is about incorporating further tech innovation in platforms and data upgrades, with renewed focus on client data. And in strategy and organisation it is about bringing it all together while driving further data acculturation and adaptation of data organisations and operating models.
A special topic of focus is data and AI compliance, including ethics. Beyond the natural risk mitigation, these are very much in line with the corporate values on responsibility. For instance, we are taking very seriously the evolution of laws in Europe and in China.
Tell us what leadership means to you in the context of your role as a senior data leader.
For me the essence of data leadership comes in three aspects. First it is an underlying mindset of serving all stakeholders to help them embrace their role in data transformation. We are not just driving value in the short term, but creating a sustainable data ecosystem for business growth. Second it is strategic oversight and operational focus to deliver the right balance in pace of change across all data areas. Third it is humble learning to keep upgrading on best data practices and the business context. And, of course, it also requires general leadership set-ups such as working on your own strengths and surrounding yourself with a team that complements your weaknesses.
