Ep 21 | Establishing a Centralised D&A Capability Across a Global, Fragmented Business with Hywel Benbow, VP Global Data & Analytics at GEMS Education

In Episode 21 of Driven by Data: The Podcast, Kyle Winterbottom is joined by Hywel Benbow, VP Global Data & Analytics at GEMS Education where they discuss the journey of establishing a centralised Data & Analytics capability across a global, fragmented organisation from scratch. Hywel provides fantastic advice and insights into the journey he has been on and the key points to consider, which includes: The challenge of consistency Where to start and whyThe importance of being ruthless with prioritisation Why you need to take the business on the journey to shift the culture Why communication is key Why you need to talk about outcomes rather than dataThe importance of quick wins Why you should think of yourself as an internal consultancy Why the role of a D&A capability is also a “sales role” Some of the commercial benefits GEMS have seen as a result The importance of setting the correct foundations The link between business priority and foundations Why managing expectations is critical The timescales to deliver genuine value to the business What you should be looking for in people who are joining your teamWhy problem-solving, communication & critical thinking skills trump technology skills