Women to Watch in Data

Sarah Schlobohm, Head of Artificial Intelligence, The Citation Group

Sarah Schlobohm’s career trajectory encompasses a breadth of expertise, from her innovative contributions to data science in the financial sector to her adeptness in team leadership and mentorship. With a background spanning physics and chartered accountancy, Sarah has established herself as a prominent figure in the field.

In addition to her professional achievements, Sarah actively engages in discussions surrounding AI ethics, delivering compelling talks on vital topics such as data integrity, bias mitigation, and privacy protection. Her dedication to nurturing the next generation of data scientists is evident through her development of training materials, mentorship initiatives, and participation in career events.

Sarah’s multifaceted approach underscores her commitment to advancing ethical standards and cultivating talent within the data science domain.

Diane Berry, PhD, Chief Data & Analytics Officer, Phoenix Group

Diane Berry’s career spans a spectrum of disciplines, from her foundational work in software engineering to her pioneering research in statistical science and her strategic leadership in consulting. With over two decades of diverse experience, Diane has honed her skills across roles, from crafting intricate client-server applications to orchestrating data-driven transformations at Bain & Company, where she navigated complex challenges for clients across industries.

Her visionary leadership and strategic foresight have been instrumental in driving tangible results and fostering innovation. Now, at Phoenix, Diane leads the charge in integrating entities and reimagining the Standard Life brand, leveraging her wealth of experience to navigate the intricacies of this pivotal phase. Her unwavering commitment to excellence and her passion for leveraging data to solve complex problems make her a driving force in shaping the future of the organisation. With a keen eye for emerging trends and a dedication to staying ahead of the curve, Diane ensures that Phoenix remains at the forefront of industry innovation, poised for sustained growth and success in an ever-evolving landscape.

Kat Holmes, Data Director, Siemens Energy

Kat Holmes is a seasoned professional offering consultancy and training services in various domains, including Data Strategy and Governance, Data Mesh, organisational architectures, and operating models, alongside fostering data literacy and cultural transformations, with a particular focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) within data teams. Additionally, Kat is an accomplished keynote speaker, sharing insights on these topics. With a career spanning over 16 years in programme, project, and change management, Kat’s career aims are multifaceted. She aims to elevate organisational data maturity by instigating changes in people, processes, and technology. Leveraging her extensive experience, she endeavours to lead large-scale transformations, empowering organisations to harness the potential of governed data effectively.Kat seeks to actively engage in dynamic, international workplaces that prioritise excellence while championing diversity and inclusion. As an Executive Data Leader and Keynote Speaker, Kat’s expertise spans Strategy, Innovation, Governance, Operating Models, and Diversity & Inclusion. Notably, she is the Founder of MenopauseX, a data-for-good startup.

Karen Ambrose, Chief Data Officer, The Francis Crick Institute

Karen Ambrose is the dedicated database team lead within the Scientific Computing team at the Crick, entrusted with the management and security of all databases. With a solid background in bioinformatics, Karen’s journey began at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, where she grappled with the management of extensive data, notably contributing to the groundbreaking Human Genome Project.

Over the course of her five-year tenure at the Crick, Karen has demonstrated her expertise by spearheading significant projects, including the smooth relocation of database systems from multiple institutes. This task required meticulous planning and execution to ensure minimal disruption to ongoing research activities.

Karen’s collaborative approach has been instrumental in fostering strong partnerships across various teams within the institute. Her commitment to data security and excellence in database management makes her a valued asset within the scientific community at the Crick.

Ciara Moore, Chief Data and Digital Officer, Bank of Ireland (UK) plc

Ciara Moore, a seasoned professional in financial services leadership, possesses over 20 years of experience with a proven track record of successful delivery in banking and advisory roles. She is renowned for her results-driven approach, resilience, and a strong focus on transforming the data, digital, operational, and cultural landscape within organisations.

At the executive level, Ciara demonstrates exceptional leadership qualities, driving change even in the most complex and challenging environments. Her leadership style is characterised by visibility, values-led decision-making, and an unwavering focus on execution.

Ciara Moore’s expertise lies in maximising business value through strategic initiatives and fostering sustainable growth. Her wealth of experience and commitment to excellence make her a valuable asset for any organisation aiming to navigate the dynamic landscape of financial services successfully.

Gabriela Filip, Chief Data and Analytics Officer, Knab Bank

Gabriela, an experienced expert in data and analytics strategy, governance, and policy development, has a profound passion for unlocking the full potential of data across enterprises. With a keen focus on maximising the business value of data, she champions the integration of advanced analytics while emphasising the importance of sustainable data governance practices.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Gabriela sees data as a force for positive change in all aspects of life. Her guiding motto, “Learn. Inspire. Teach. Protect. Remove obstacles. Be Human,” reflects her unwavering commitment to advancing knowledge, sharing insights, and safeguarding sensitive data.

Specialising in data-driven organisations, strategic enterprise data management, and advanced analytics, Gabriela is a valuable asset for any organisation seeking to harness the power of their data effectively.

Caroline Zimmerman, Data Products & Strategy Director,  Profusion

Caroline Zimmerman, a former literary agent turned data professional through an MBA journey, possess a fervent enthusiasm for intertwining data, narratives, and design to facilitate organisations in achieving profitable growth. Her daily endeavours involve crafting data strategies and product roadmaps, assembling diverse teams capable of executing and refining those visions, and diving into the thick of things when necessary, even delving into technical aspects herself, to ensure successful outcomes.

The teams Caroline constructs include not only data specialists but also product managers, scrum masters, user researchers, and subject matter experts. This holistic approach aims to craft data products that effectively tackle the right issues for end-users and the organisation at large.

Beyond the realm of data, Caroline advocates for a workplace culture that embraces people’s full humanity, believing it leads to greater organisational success, including financial prosperity. She encourages individuals to bring their authentic selves to work, recognising that suppressing certain aspects often leads to negative manifestations. By sharing her own humanity in the workplace, Caroline hopes to inspire others to do the same, fostering a more inclusive and productive environment.

Rachel Pillsbury, Chief Data Officer, LeftWise

Rachel Pillsbury is an experienced, nationally recognised data, analytics, and machine learning leader. She excels in senior-level influence and hands-on implementation. With a diverse background spanning FMCG, retail, fintech, legal practice, logistics, media, HR, biotechnology, healthcare, and travel, Rachel brings a wide breadth of knowledge to every project.

As Roving Chief Data Officer at Phoenix Equity Partners, she has created successful data strategies for growth and acquisitions, resulting in multi-million-pound exits. Rachel has led best-in-class data teams, transforming organisations like Riviera Travel with personalised, machine learning-driven insights that generated millions in incremental revenue.

Lauren Walker, Global Chief Client Solutions Officer, Annalect

Lauren Walker’s career journey began in U.S. politics before transitioning into strategic marketing at an Equifax spin-off, ChoicePoint (now owned by LexisNexis). Following this, she spent two years at Yale School of Management, honing her skills. Her career then led her to roles in product marketing, sales, and consulting at IBM, culminating in her appointment as Chief Data & Digital Officer and later Chief Operating Officer at Dentsu International, a top global media agency.

With over two decades of experience in global executive roles, Lauren is recognised as a seasoned Digital Transformation Executive. She has received accolades such as being named a Top 100 UK Data Leader multiple times by DataIQ and recognised as a Global Top 100 Data Visionary by HotTopics. Lauren is an active keynote speaker, panellist, and podcaster at various prestigious events, including those hosted by IDC, Salesforce, and Gartner/Evanta CDO Exchange.

Stephanie DiChiara, Head of Transformation and Strategy, Group Data, QBE Insurance

Stephanie DiChiara has a diverse professional background spanning Insurance, Management Consulting, Technology, and Strategy. Currently positioned at QBE (London), she serves as the Head of Transformation and Strategy within the Group Data Office. In this role, Stephanie plays a pivotal part in shaping and executing a new vision for consolidated data and analytics.

Prior to her tenure at QBE, Stephanie accumulated 13 years of experience at Beazley plc (London), where she initially served as a strategic programme director. During her time there, she successfully delivered critical projects across various divisions and functions. Later, Stephanie transitioned into the role of business manager and became a valued member of the leadership team for the global claims team.

Before her ventures in the insurance industry, Stephanie worked as a management consultant at McKinsey, focusing on technology and consumer packaged goods. She also gained experience as a developer and project manager in Silicon Valley, where she contributed her skills to both start-ups and PwC. Throughout her career, Stephanie has demonstrated proficiency in delivering complex organisational change across different functions and geographical regions. She is adept at developing strategic visions, refining operating models, and leading high-performing teams to success.

Hannah Davies, Head of Data Culture & Excellence, Admiral Group

Hannah Davies, the Head of Data Culture & Excellence and Founder of the successful Data Academy at Admiral Group, boasts over a decade of experience in the data realm. With credentials such as Chartered Mathematician (CMath) and Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO), she has established herself as a prominent figure in the field. Hannah’s expertise lies in data fluency, fostering data culture, facilitating learning and skill development, as well as strategic management and leadership.

Her passions revolve around enhancing Data Fluency and Culture while championing the establishment of diverse, successful teams. Moreover, she is a staunch advocate for females in Data, Tech, and STEM subjects.

Hannah’s accomplishments speak volumes, with recognitions such as TechWomen 100 2023, Highly Commended STEM Educational Programme of the Year at the Wales STEM Awards 2023, and Finalist for Best Data Academy at the DataIQ Awards 2023.

Elaine Priest, Global Head of Data Risk, HSBC

Elaine Priest’s career has been shaped by her curiosity and willingness to take on challenges where the journey isn’t easy or the path that clear. Her expertise has been sought numerous times across different areas within the banking industry, but there has always been a data lens to any role that she has undertaken. Collaboration, co-creation, and partnership are key to her success. Being open to new ideas and innovation creates an energising environment.

Passionate about driving strategy and transformation, Elaine finds a real sweet spot where business, technology, and data come together to create new ideas that drive positive customer experiences.

She thoroughly enjoys “paying it forward” through career coaching and mentoring, finding nothing more satisfying than seeing someone reach their potential.

Sandra Stanley, Chief Data Scientist, Dunnhumby

Sandra Stanley, a dedicated and resilient business leader, boasts a wealth of experience exceeding 20 years in leveraging data-driven insights, data science, and AI to spearhead transformations and deliver impactful business results with a customer-centric approach. With a strong background in global grocery retail, Sandra also possesses hands-on data science expertise across various sectors.

 

Known for her proven ability to pitch ideas to senior management, Sandra is admired for inspiring and developing teams while delivering data science solutions that yield tangible business benefits. She is respected within large teams for her multitasking prowess, seamlessly juggling team leadership, client deliveries, and strategic internal projects that benefit the broader data science community.

Nirali Patel, Group VP Data & AI Strategy, Liberty Global

Nirali Patel, a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in the digital, data, analytics, AI, and change management fields, currently holds the position of Group VP of Data & AI Strategy at Liberty Global. In this role, Nirali leads an internal consultancy dedicated to driving value accretive data strategy across the group and facilitating the integration of AI and ML across Liberty Global’s functions.

Throughout her career, Nirali has played a pivotal role in large business transformation programmes across diverse industries, including health, financial services, consultancy, and telecommunications. Her mission is centred on solving high-value problems that enhance customer experience, drive efficiencies, enable new revenues, and positively impact society. This commitment has led to delivering significant results, including generating hundreds of millions in revenues, cost savings, margin, and return on investment.

Passionate about transforming businesses, Nirali focuses on establishing the right foundations for data and AI, aiming to scale adoption across entire organisations and unlock value within them. Committed to the growth of individuals, she actively engages in mentoring, coaching, and other Employee Resource Group (ERG) schemes. Nirali is honoured to be frequently recognised as one of the DataIQ 100.

Dr. Nadia Morozova, Global Chief Analytics & Insights Officer – Brand, Marketing and Communications, EY

Dr. Nadia Morozova, an accomplished Analytics & Insights expert, recognised for her award-winning contributions, is a distinguished thought leader and keynote speaker. With a wealth of international experience spanning fourteen years, she has consistently achieved exceptional business results in revenue, profits, market share, brand equity, and customer relationships across brand, consumer, shopper, and market insights.

As the Global Chief Analytics & Insights Officer – Brand, Marketing & Communications at EY in London, Dr. Nadia Morozova leads high-performing teams with a focus on placing consumers and customers at the core of business decisions. Her leadership is marked by a strong commitment to authentic and empathetic guidance, coupled with a fast learning curve and highly developed business acumen.

Dr. Morozova is renowned for her expertise in Digital and eCommerce, and she passionately builds bridges between academic and applied consumer research. Her career is characterised by a proven ability to build and transform business functions, set strategic directions, and articulate long-term visions.

Victoria Gamerman, Global Head of Data Governance and Insights, Boehringer Ingelheim

A trailblazer in data strategy, Victoria is dedicated to enhancing healthcare by bridging the gaps between patient-centricity, digital health, and real-world evidence to revolutionise clinical research through innovation and digital transformation.

As the Global Head of Data Governance and Insights, Victoria assumes responsibility for shaping the data strategy and governance for Clinical Development and Operations. Before this, she served as the Head of Health Informatics and Analytics, where she defined strategic priorities based on input from Medical and Commercial stakeholders. Leading a team of data scientists, Victoria’s organisation executed use cases, generating evidence from external clinical data and real-world healthcare data to support drug development.

Victoria holds a Ph.D. and M.S. in Biostatistics from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine and an M.A./B.A. in Mathematics from Boston University.

Currently mentoring at Endless Frontiers Lab at NYU Stern Business School, Victoria also serves as an Adjunct Scholar-Professional Lecturer at Columbia University, teaching Strategy and Analytics. Her innate curiosity fuels her enjoyment in connecting with like-minded individuals who advocate for leveraging data to generate insights, particularly in innovative applications advancing patient health.

Steph Bell, Director of Analytics, Sainsbury’s

Steph Bell, a distinguished member of the DataIQ100 for consecutive years in 2021 and 2022, emerges as an influential leader in analytics. Boasting over 15 years of client and stakeholder-facing experience in retail, customer, and marketing analytics, Steph is passionate about fostering teams of inspired and motivated analytics professionals. Her focus lies in delivering value through the creation of actionable insights, strategically influencing key decisions that position data at the forefront of business strategy.

With a proven track record, Steph has successfully led transformative projects for both Sainsbury’s and Argos. Her leadership style is characterised by guiding teams to adeptly craft compelling narratives with data, ensuring that insights resonate and drive impactful outcomes.

Helen Louwrens, Director of Data & Insight, Care Commission Quality

Helen Louwrens, a distinguished data and analytics leader, is dedicated to driving opportunities and solving organisational challenges through her profound understanding of data. With a wealth of experience, she specialises in crafting and implementing data strategies that maximise the impact of data and analytics. Helen seamlessly blends technical analytic expertise with commercial acumen, resulting in the development of more relevant and impactful solutions.

A catalyst for change, Helen leads organisations in adopting an insight-driven culture, fostering a transformative environment. Her leadership extends to managing multi-disciplined and geographically dispersed teams, ensuring the delivery of impactful business outcomes. Helen’s commitment to embedding data-driven insights within organisations sets her apart as a leader in the field.

Robin Sutara, Field Chief Transformation Officer, Databricks

Sheetal Patole, Chief Information Officer, Barclays

Tia Cheang, Chief Data & Analytics Strategy Officer, Gallagher

Holly Chatton, Head of Data Governance, AJ Bell

Elise Walker, Data Platform Director, Walgreen Boots Alliance

Alexandra Sidgreaves, Chief Data Officer, Zurich Insurance

Asheeka Hyde, Head of Trading Analytics and Data Science, Dunelm

Jessica Simons-Boswell, Head of Data, e.surv Chartered Surveyors

Di Mayze, Global Head of Data & AI at WPP

Ines Ashton, Director of Advance Analytics at Mars Petcare

Katy Gooblar, Head of Data and Group Analytics at The Royal College of Nursing

Katy stood out to me after seeing a recent LinkedIn post about her exceptional journey from humble beginnings to becoming a data leader. Her journey provides a source of inspiration for countless individuals who face adversity and uncertainty. Today we celebrate your immeasurable contributions to the data community and your enduring message that success is not about having it all planned out but about embracing the journey, wherever it may lead.