Careers
More and more organizations are incorporating a Chief Data Officer (CDO) in their strategies to leverage big data and artificial intelligence (AI). A study by EY and the Club Chief Data Officers explores the profile of these professionals occupying a newly created role aimed at spearheading their companies’ digital transformation. In 70% of cases, the CDO — also called the Head of Data or Head of Data & Advanced Analytics — is tasked with driving business growth.
These data managers are charged with capturing and transforming company information, designing strategies, generating and measuring value, and enhancing the user experience. Additionally, they focus on data architecture, information security, the development of advanced analytics, and matters related to AI.
Several studies have found that this role has existed for less than 10 years. It is believed that the first CDO was appointed by financial services company Capital One in 2002. Although the role took time to catch on in other organizations, it is now widespread. Over half of CDO positions were created in the past three years, with a surge in the last 12 months.
Many individuals responsible for leading data strategy in companies hold university degrees in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or Telecommunications. However, 12.9% of CDOs have a background in Business Administration or Economics, 10.9% have studied Mathematics or Statistics, and 9.9% come to the role from a wide range of fields (e.g., medicine, sociology, communications, marketing, and physics).
Like the role of Chief Data Officer, those who hold it are still in the early stages of their careers. The majority of CDOs (61%) are between 41 and 50 years old, followed by professionals aged 30 to 40, who make up 29%.