Richard Floyd is Chief Data and AI Officer at City National Bank, where he leads data strategy, governance, and AI initiatives to support business transformation and risk management. His career spans diverse sectors, including service in the US Marine Corps, retail, and financial services, shaping a leadership approach grounded in discipline, adaptability, and results.
Richard’s work has consistently focused on using data as a foundation for better decision-making. He has led efforts to establish robust governance frameworks that ensure compliance, data integrity, and trust, while also leveraging analytics to streamline operations and mitigate risk. Across organizations, Richard has built and scaled teams that promote data-centric cultures and embed evidence-based decision-making into everyday business processes.
He places strong emphasis on data literacy and aligning technology initiatives with business outcomes, ensuring that data capabilities translate into measurable value. Richard’s perspective is rooted in the belief that data serves as a guiding compass—helping organizations navigate complexity, build trust, and make informed decisions that drive sustained performance.
As a data and AI leader, which traits and skills do you think matter most, and which of those have been most influential for you in your current position?
“Effective data and AI leadership requires a combination of technical proficiency (understanding data science and AI capabilities), strategic thinking (aligning initiatives with business goals), ethical awareness (navigating compliance and fairness), cross-functional collaboration (bridging teams), and change management (guiding organizational shifts).
“Among these, strategic thinking and cross-functional collaboration have proven most influential, as leaders who align AI projects with business objectives and foster teamwork between technical and non-technical teams drive measurable success and responsible innovation.”
Reflecting on your career, what is one non-traditional piece of advice (outside of technical skills) you would give to an aspiring data or AI leader aiming for the C-suite?
“While technical expertise is foundational, the path to the C-suite demands a shift in mindset: prioritize business outcomes over data or AI tools themselves. Aspiring leaders must master the art of translating technical capabilities into solutions for tangible business challenges, whether it’s improving customer retention, optimizing costs, or driving revenue growth.
“The key lies in storytelling. Frame every data or AI initiative around its impact on organizational goals. For example, instead of highlighting a model’s accuracy, demonstrate how it reduces operational inefficiencies by 20%. This approach builds credibility with executives and aligns your work with strategic priorities.
“Additionally, cultivate cross-functional empathy. Understand the pain points of teams like marketing, finance, or operations, and collaborate to co-create solutions. This bridges the gap between technical and business stakeholders, positioning you as a strategic partner rather than a niche expert.”