Ratheesh Kamoor
SVP Head of Data & Analytics
Warner Brothers Discovery
Ratheesh Kamoor is the Senior Vice President of Data at Warner Bros. Discovery, where he leads the Data & Audience Platform initiatives supporting MAX Streaming Services, CNN, Bleacher Report, WB Studios, and more. His organization spans the entire data ecosystem—including data platform infrastructure, customer and content insights, audience development, segmentation and activation.
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Give us a brief overview of the path that led to your current role.
I began my career as a Software Engineer over 20 years ago, working across various technology and retail companies and progressing through multiple levels of the engineering ladder. My first data-focused role came at The Walt Disney Company, where I led the development of Disney’s first cloud-based data platform in 2015. I later evolved that platform to support AI/ML-driven product development across Disney Streaming and Digital properties, including Disney+, ESPN+, ESPN, and ABC.
What is one of your guiding leadership principles?
I’m a results-driven, iterative leader who balances long-term vision with agile execution. I believe in making rapid, measurable progress, learning through experimentation, and embracing a fail-fast mindset to drive innovation and continuous improvement.
What is the greatest challenge data leaders are facing today, and how are you addressing it?
In today’s environment, every part of the business relies on data and is being asked to do more with less. Managing prioritization and setting expectations across C-level stakeholders is a constant challenge. I’m navigating this by driving a strong product mindset, rigorously evaluating ROI, and over-communicating both challenges and opportunities to ensure alignment and transparency.
What is the key to success for someone just starting out as a CDAO?
The key to success in a C-level data role is a mindset of continuous learning, adaptability, and creative value creation. You must constantly seek new ways to unlock the power of data, while building strong cross-functional relationships. Data is the connective tissue across the organization—our role is to be the bridge, connecting dots across teams, functions, and strategies to drive meaningful outcomes.
How do you measure success as a leader?
Success as a leader is measured by the value you create. In the data space, that means unlocking the true potential of data to drive impact—whether through enabling better decisions, powering products, or delivering measurable business outcomes. The ability to consistently turn data into value is the ultimate benchmark for leadership in this field.
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