February 2026
In an era where technology evolves at breakneck speed and business priorities can shift overnight, the role of the Chief Data & Analytics Officer (CDAO) plays a more pivotal role than ever. This is especially true within Gartner CDAO Communities – where the brightest minds in data and analytics come together to connect, collaborate, and address their most complex challenges – together.
At a recent Dallas CDAO Community Executive Summit, senior data and analytics leaders gathered to exchange hard-earned insights, discuss emerging strategies, and seek actionable solutions to the mission-critical issues facing their organizations. In candid conversations, executives shared their top priorities for the months ahead. From process optimization and demonstrating ROI to strengthening data security and developing people strategies, their perspectives reveal both the challenges and opportunities shaping the CDAO agenda.
So, what’s top of mind for today’s leading data and analytics executives? Below, we highlight the priorities and strategies shared by seven Dallas CDAO community members.
Strengthening Data Foundations & Security
A strong data foundation is the bedrock of every successful D&A initiative. While new technologies grab headlines, executives shared how robust governance, process-driven thinking, and high-quality data are non-negotiable. Without these essentials, even the most innovative projects risk falling short of their true potential.
I think data and analytics leaders should primarily focus on governance and how we're delivering value to the business. I know there's a lot of hype right now with artificial intelligence, and it's been that way for a year or two. And while that's very important, the foundation still comes back to our governance practices, our data quality and knowing what data we have and where it's at. Without those foundations, we won't be able to grow.
– Amberle Carter
CDAO, Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, State of Texas
Data is not new and the issues are not new, but one of the things that I encourage leaders to focus on is to look at data from a process perspective and leverage AI for its capabilities to improve processes. That's what I would suggest teams focus on.
– Kishore Agasthi
CDO, Morgan Street Holdings
The Value Creation Imperative
CDAOs emphasized that it’s no longer enough to be a data expert – today’s leaders must be value experts, championing initiatives that drive revenue, reduce costs, and ensure compliance. By putting value creation at the center, data teams transform from cost centers into strategic engines of growth.
Always concentrate on value creation. Do not be a data expert, but become a value expert. This is what is needed today, and this is what is needed tomorrow.
– Ibrahim Itani
Head of Analytics & Innovation, Marathon Petroleum
Definitely providing ROI. Make sure all of your initiatives provide an impact to the bottom line of the company – whether it's increased revenue, reduced cost, or regulatory compliance. Without showing the actual value of the projects, you're seen as a cost center – not a contributor – to the bottom line of the company. That would be the most important thing I would recommend to focus on.
– Tufan Arikan
CDO, TriNet Group
Harnessing AI for Real Results
Leading CDAOs are crafting AI roadmaps, balancing innovation with security, and gearing up for the next frontier – agentic AI.
Make sure that you have a crisp strategy around generative AI. You don't need it for everything, so make sure that you know where you want to use it and where you don't want to use it.
– Aamer Charania
Head of Applied Machine Learning, Best Buy
It will be about how we utilize AI to improve productivity and be competitive in the industry.
– Sreenivas Gadhar
VP - Global Data and Analytics, Marsh McLennan
Upskilling for the Future of Data
In a world of rapid change, talent is the ultimate differentiator. Executives shared that they are investing in upskilling and creative workforce strategies to keep their teams ahead of the curve.
The number one thing data leaders should be focused on is their people. Upskilling is going to be critical for us, because the world and the industry is growing so fast. We have to find creative ways to keep up with that growth. It’s going to be critical to figure out the people strategy that we're going to deploy to support that.
– Livia Kessler
Head of Analytics Delivery, Bon Secours Mercy Health
As these CDAO community members illustrate, the path ahead for data and analytics leaders is both challenging and full of promise. Whether you’re focused on strengthening data foundations, demonstrating business value, harnessing AI, or investing in your team, these priorities are best tackled together – with the collective wisdom and support of peers who truly understand your journey.
If you’re ready to connect with fellow CDAOs, exchange actionable strategies, and stay at the forefront of innovation, join Gartner CDAO Communities. Already a member? Sign in to see when your community is meeting next.
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