Being a data leader
Some of the specific attributes you have described are – in my mind – those of a great data leader. I’d love to hear your thoughts: what makes someone a standout chief data officer (CDO) or senior data leader in this field? What do you think are some of the key attributes they need to have?
DT: You need great communication skills, and communication skills are not just being able to explain model X but showing how you can use data within the business setting.
You also need to be a great listener. You really need to listen to the business and understand what they want to do. You need to be able to listen, identify the gaps, and work out how to fill them to provide business value.
Those are the key ones. Obviously, you need to be analytical and adaptable as a data person. If one of the approaches that you’re taking is not working, you need to know when to select a different approach.
I also always like people to be entrepreneurial...