Jane returns to the 2025 DataIQ 100 North America as a data and AI leader who consistently turns vision into enterprise value. After securing a top ten position in 2024 for her work at Zurich North America, she has wasted no time bringing that momentum to her new role at Sidley Austin LLP. As Chief Data and AI Officer, Jane is shaping the firm’s AI strategy and embedding it within decision-making processes across the business. Her impact lies in her ability to move from ideation to scaled execution, underpinned by a deep belief that data and AI only deliver when paired with organizational literacy and C-suite alignment. With a track record that spans insurance, legal, and consulting, Jane stands out as a leader building capability where it counts: across teams, systems, and at the executive table.
I am known as a visionary leader in data, AI, and analytics, with a proven track record of transforming organizations through cutting-edge technology, data-driven strategies, and AI-powered business solutions. With over two decades of experience across industries including insurance, legal, finance, and consulting, I specialize in enterprise data modernization, AI adoption, and digital transformation.
As Chief Data and AI Officer at Sidley Austin, I am responsible for shaping the firm’s AI strategy and driving innovation through data-driven decision-making. Prior to this, I held executive leadership roles at Zurich North America, Patra Corporation, UFG Insurance, and TaxACT, building high-performing teams and spearheading large-scale data transformation initiatives.
For over a decade, I have led teams of engineers, data scientists, and analysts, implemented next-generation AI capabilities, and modernized data technologies, machine learning, NLP, and intelligent automation. I consider myself a champion of data governance, AI ethics, and business intelligence, having successfully embedded AI into core business operations, optimizing workflows and enhancing customer experiences.
I hold a Master of Science in data science from Northwestern University and an MBA from Indiana University Kelley School of Business, bringing a unique blend of technical expertise and business acumen, enabling organizations to unlock the full potential of AI and analytics.
We have centralized the work intake process and ideation around our AI use cases. We have also worked with external management consulting to establish a firm-wide and comprehensive strategy around data and AI to maintain and continue to drive our competitive advantage. My role is a peer to other C-suite executives, which provides me with the visibility to get buy-in on leveraging data and AI as a strategic asset across the firm.
I believe the role of a data leader will need to transition from prototyping new technology to real value creation at an enterprise level. This requires the CDAO to create a sustainable disciple of ideation to execution to scaled operation in order to bring turn these new technologies into a new reality. The data leader will also be required to build data and AI literacy across the organization. Regardless of how great your solutions are, the inability to activate the capabilities of the user community will be the most significant blocker to success.