Data leaders set the industry agenda at the 2024 DataIQ 100 Discussion and Summer Lunch

David Reed, Chief Knowledge Officer and Evangelist, DataIQ, was master of ceremonies and moderator for the panel discussions. Di Black, Managing Director, Accenture, kicked off the event by examining the evolving role of data leaders and how the recent explosion in AI and generative AI (genAI) tech has increased the pressure on data leaders to deliver more, faster.  

This was followed by a panel discussion including examining the way in which data leaders can be set KPIs with no idea why or what they need support with specifically, the risk of AI value when it comes to just spending on tech and the need for growth, the way in which foundations are essential to achieving success, and more.  

One panel member explained how they have had more discussions with the board in the last six months of their career than the whole of their career beforehand, highlighting the shift in data value and the appreciation of data for an organisation. The panel ended by looking at the development of proofs of concept and how genAI is not the sole solution to issues regarding end-to-end business problems, but it can be a key tool.  

The DataIQ 100 Discussion also took the opportunity to celebrate excellence in the industry and shine a spotlight on some of the most prestigious data leaders that are active today.

• Mars Wrigley was awarded the Culture Award, which this year recognises a team and a global data-driven organisation that has gone above and beyond to ensure data and AI is understood by all their workforce through their AI for All programme.
• Direct Line Group won the Innovation Award for its work on genAI in 2023, focusing on business-critical areas and providing highly improved user experiences.
• The prestigious DataIQ 100 Hall of Fame Award was presented to Ming Tang, Chief Data and Analytics Officer for NHS England. She has been a regular in the DataIQ 100 listing and was awarded the number one spot in 2021. Her work has impacted everyone in the UK and helped drive the importance of data within organisations. 

“Congratulations to Mars Wrigley and Direct Line Group for their awards, and of course a big welcome to Ming Tang to the DataIQ 100 Hall of Fame,” said Gregory.  

“Once again, the calibre of attendees highlighted why being involved with the data and analytics industry is such a privilege,” said Paul Hatley, Managing Director, DataIQ. “The atmosphere of the whole event was one of a tight-knit community and the conversations flowed freely, particularly around the impact of AI. Everyone was involved in sharing ideas, learning from other attendees, and building a strong rapport with peers, which is exactly what the DataIQ community is all about.” 

Following the roundtable discussions, a seasonal lunch was held followed by drinks outside on the terrace, providing attendees the prime opportunity to meet peers, catch up with friends within the community, and continue discussing hot button topics.

The DataIQ 100 Discussion is the premier industry gathering for data professionals to meet and delve into the most important and impactful topics with peers and colleagues. There is no better opportunity for data leaders to meet other industry experts in a safe and private environment. 

To become a DataIQ member, click here. 

To register for the DataIQ 100 Summit London, click here. 

DataIQ connects, develops and elevates data leaders and their teams. DataIQ’s membership community connects teams and individuals to a global network of senior data leaders and practitioners, develops soft skills for data teams through our widely recognised training programmes and peer reviewed market insights and an elevated profile across the data and analytics community.