What are the key ingredients for hiring an effective Chief Data Officer?
The Chief Data Officer (CDO) is the backbone of any organisation, providing the knowledge and insight to underpin and drive organisational strategy. This C-suite role is integral and relied on by every business function.
Here at Suzie Walker Executive Search, we regularly recruit interim and permanent CDOs, on behalf of our clients, for FTSE 350 and private equity-backed companies. We also support candidates to develop into these roles through further learning and role opportunities. We hope the following key ingredients provide food for thought.
Firstly, what is a CDO?
A successful organisation will be driven by good quality data from stakeholders to improve performance and to identify unique opportunities within their sector. The CDO will oversee every aspect of data collection, processes and analysis to form the basis of a strong strategy, ensuring that departments work in accordance with General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
Strategist
The CDO will have a keen interest in customer behaviour, developing a data and information strategy to fully understand their needs and to tell their story. Reporting to the CEO, and working with other C-suite colleagues, they will understand how data can drive strategic decisions and provide value to the organisation, identifying revenue opportunities.
Collaborator
An effective CDO will work closely with their team, and beyond, to oversee processes and analyse data, developing systems that provide meaningful information to the organisation. They will take a keen interest in how data can benefit departments, fine-tuning processes and reducing pain points wherever possible.
Overseer
Understanding and ensuring compliance of data protection guidelines is a key part of this role – from collection and storage, to systems and usage. The CDO will keep up to date on changes, ensure adequate communication and training throughout the organisation, and work with business functions to fully understand how data is being collected, stored and used.
Qualifications
Organisations’ requirements vary. Some will require a relevant bachelor’s degree or higher national diploma in a relevant qualification e.g. business, some will require a master’s degree, and some will value qualifications through professional bodies. However, a minimum of five years in a similar role and a proven track record will be essential.
Salary
Salary really depends on factors like experience, location and, most importantly, the right person. At Suzie Walker Executive Search, our team invests time at the beginning of a search to really understand what a client needs in terms of candidate profile and organisational culture. We also consider the ‘wild card candidate’ - being bold and brave while ensuring knowledge and expertise.
If you’re looking to hire an interim or permanent CDO, or if you’re looking to make your next career move, get in touch to see how we can help you or connect with us/send a message on LinkedIn.
With warmest regards,
the Suzie Walker Executive Search team
Suzie Walker Executive Search is a firm of specialist headhunters with an expert team recruiting interim and permanent senior leaders for marketing and digital roles in consumer-facing FTSE 350 and private equity-backed companies. Find out how we can support you by connecting with a Consultant below.