Sanjeev Jagait is Chief Data Officer at Arts Council England, where he leads the organisation’s data strategy to support evidence-based decision-making and effective use of insight across the cultural sector.
He brings more than 20 years’ experience in data roles across a range of industries, each presenting distinct challenges around sourcing and analysing data, translating insight into action, and embedding best practice. Throughout his career, Sanjeev has focused on ensuring data is robust, well-governed, and genuinely useful for informing decisions, improving efficiency, and strengthening organisational performance.
Sanjeev is experienced in building strong relationships with senior stakeholders, acting as a trusted advisor who understands diverse perspectives while maintaining appropriate service levels and data standards. He has consistently worked to educate organisations on how effective use of data can become a source of strategic advantage.
Working across different fields has shaped Sanjeev’s leadership style. He brings a blended approach to problem-solving, combining analytical rigour with pragmatism and an ability to respond to changing environments and priorities.
As he has progressed into senior leadership roles, Sanjeev has remained actively engaged in the wider data community. He values learning from peers across sectors and is committed to supporting the development of the next generation of data professionals. At Arts Council England, his focus is on using data responsibly and insightfully to support fair, transparent and impactful funding and policy decisions.
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?
“You require the ability to develop and communicate a compelling vision for how data and AI are going to support the organisation; pragmatic technical judgement on what work to undertake; and a strong ability to influence and engage colleagues.
“Translating what capabilities are required and how they add value. Set a direction colleagues can get behind and building the confidence needed to adopt new ways of working have all been key in my organisation.”
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?
“Understand who makes decisions within an organisation and how they make them (develop your empathy and emotional intelligence). Be a problem solver, whether you use data or not, and you will always have a role to play in any organisation.”
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