Gartner Data & Analytics Summit UK 2025 Takeaways with Rebecca O'Kill
May 15, 2025
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Rebecca O'Kill, CDAO of AXIS Capital and an expert in data governance, joins Juan and Tim to share insights from the Gartner Data & Analytics Summit 2025. She discusses the evolving landscape of data governance, emphasizing its critical role in enabling AI and aligning with business objectives. They explore the transformation of innovation teams and the necessity of balancing fast-paced business demands with tech strategy. Additionally, the conversation highlights the significance of collaboration and effective communication in fostering stakeholder engagement for better data outcomes.
Shifting the perception of data governance from a chore to an enabler fosters greater engagement and investment from stakeholders.
Implementing minimum valuable governance allows organizations to prioritize impactful projects while demonstrating quick wins and encouraging support.
Embedding governance roles within business teams transforms governance into a collaborative effort, aligning initiatives closely with operational needs and enhancing effectiveness.
Deep dives
Emphasizing Value Through Governance
Governance in enterprise data management is often viewed negatively, with many individuals reluctant to engage with it. To change this mindset, the conversation suggests approaching governance as an enabler rather than a chore, positioning it as essential for achieving desired outcomes. By framing data governance in relation to value and goals that stakeholders genuinely care about, organizations can encourage participation and investment from business teams. This shift is crucial because it allows governance to be seen as a path to exciting initiatives rather than a mundane obligation.
Minimum Valuable Governance for Success
Implementing the concept of minimum valuable governance involves identifying the least complex governance measures necessary to achieve substantial value. Prioritizing projects that have significant impact while requiring minimal oversight can help build momentum and demonstrate quick wins. Ensuring clear value propositions and engaging specific end users are essential components of this approach. This strategy not only fosters stakeholder support but also lays the groundwork for deeper governance practices as the organization matures.
Embedding Governance Within Business Processes
Embedding governance within business teams transforms governance from a peripheral duty into a collaborative effort central to operations. By integrating governance roles within customer-facing units, organizations can ensure that governance activities align closely with business needs and outcomes. This alignment helps to cultivate a sense of partnership where both the data team and business stakeholders work together towards shared objectives. Establishing this collaborative dynamic can significantly enhance the effectiveness and reception of governance initiatives.
Balancing Front and Back Office Roles
The roles of front-facing and back-office teams must be clearly defined to create an efficient data management environment. Front-facing teams focus on engaging with business units to understand their needs and deliver relevant insights, while back-office teams handle the technical architecture and data quality processes. This division enables organizations to maintain robust architecture while rapidly delivering valuable solutions. Additionally, leveraging talent that bridges both business acumen and technical skills fosters collaboration and ensures that solutions remain strategically relevant.
The Importance of Communication and Relationship Building
Effective communication and relationship building are paramount in driving data governance and strategic initiatives in any organization. Establishing strong connections with stakeholders enables data leaders to understand business priorities and adapt their strategies accordingly. Continually promoting open dialogue and active listening can help stakeholders see the value in governance processes, leading to greater engagement and collaboration. Ultimately, building trust within the organization accelerates the transition to data-driven practices and mitigates resistance to change.
Join Juan and Tim as they welcome special guest Rebecca O’Kill (CDAO of AXIS Capital) fresh from their panel at the Gartner Data & Analytics Summit 2025 in London. They'll have an Honest, No-BS discussion on making data catalog and governance work in the real world while sharing key themes and actionable insights from one of the year's most influential data conferences.
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