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Building a world-class data org | Jessica Lachs (VP of Analytics and Data Science at DoorDash)

Lenny's Podcast: Product | Growth | Career

notes

NOTE

Select Metrics Wisely for Long-term Impact

Select metrics that can be measured in the short term but drive long-term outcomes. Avoid focusing on metrics like retention which are difficult to impact short term. Instead, identify and test inputs that influence the desired long-term outputs. Keep metric selection simple to ensure clarity and effectiveness.

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Transcript

Episode notes

Jessica Lachs is the global head of analytics and data science at DoorDash, where she’s built one of the largest and most respected data organizations in tech. In her more than 10 years at DoorDash, she has served as the first general manager, responsible for launching new markets; the head of business ops and analytics; and the VP of analytics and data science. Previously, Jessica founded GiftSimple, a social gifting startup, and started her career at Lehman Brothers as an investment banking analyst. In our conversation, she shares:

• How to structure and scale a high-impact analytics organization

• Centralized vs. decentralized data teams

• How to pick the right metric and aligning incentives

• Advice for data people on how and when to push back

• Lessons learned from building a global data team

• How to foster a culture of extreme ownership

• The role of AI in improving analytics team productivity

• Advice for aspiring data leaders without formal training

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