What are some best practices and key actions to focus on during the first 100 days as a Head of Data?

For the 100 days I would suggest

1-     Understand the targets and vision from the Business: meet higher management and other stakeholders

2-     Evaluate the current Data strategy and plans: check adherence to business strategy, meet partners and vendors

3-     Conduct the as-is status: team, capabilities, platform, budget, tools, processes, project status

4-     Confirm existing roadmap or develop /adjust new roadmap.

5-     Ensure proper project governance is in place

6-     Communicate new strategy to everyone.

7-     Communicate, communicate, communicate

My sentiments would be to try and deliver a few quick wins for data initiatives that are focused or centered on what’s most valuable to the business. That way, it’s understood and measurable by all. Part of your 100-day plan should entail:

1.      Starting a conversation with key business stakeholders to get and establish a clear understanding of the top business objectives and priorities – what does the business really care about?

2.      Identify where data can help the business in achieving its objectives – this will inform ideas for data initiatives.

3.      Conduct an assessment to determine if and how ready the business is from a data, people and technology maturity standpoint – you need to know where the business currently is before you can help shape the future. This will help identify both opportunities and risks, while you formulate your plan.

4.      Continue the discussion with the CSUIT leaders and get buy-in on a viable use-case for data, that will bring the most value to the business.

5.      Formulate a proof of concept and define a roadmap for delivery. Try not to bite off more than you can chew! Focus more on the value add and measures of success.

6.      Continue to scale based on results/early wins while paying attention to lessons learnt along the journey. Share your results!

7.      Don’t go at it alone. It’s important to understand the organizational culture and have a few sponsors and supporters from the beginning. Especially from the business side.

8.      Try not to worry too much about failing and when you do fail, learn from it and move on.

9.      Stay prepared for changes, especially shifts in business objectives and changing priorities. This should be a reflection of your data strategy.

Key actions to focus on during the first few months of being the Head of Data include understanding the data landscape, evaluating existing infrastructure, and getting to know the team as much as possible. Moreover, ensure that your team goals and roadmap align with the data strategy and business objectives.