Spotlight on Ratika Garg

I am a technology and data leader with over 20 years of experience leading digital transformation, modern data platforms, and AI-driven innovation. Throughout my career, I have built and led high-performing global engineering and data organizations, partnering with business and product leaders to deliver technology solutions that drive measurable business outcomes and enhance customer experiences.  
I am responsible to define the vision and strategy for enterprise data and technology capabilities, focused on modernizing data platforms, accelerating delivery, and enabling AI-powered decision making. I am passionate about connecting business strategy with technology execution, helping organizations unlock the full value of data to drive growth, operational excellence, and innovation.

Learn more about the Southern California CDAO Community here.
 

Give us a brief overview of the path that led to your current role.

My career has evolved from being a hands-on middleware and enterprise solutions consultant, designing and building enterprise systems, to leading global engineering and data organizations that deliver technology at scale. Along the way, I have worked closely with business and product leaders, gaining a deep appreciation for how technology, data, and insights create real business impact.

This journey has shaped my passion for bridging business strategy with technology execution and transforming data into a strategic asset. Today, I focus on building modern data and AI capabilities that help organizations make faster, smarter decisions and drive innovation. 
 

What is one of your guiding leadership principles?

Build high-performing teams united by a shared purpose, where people support, challenge and elevate each other to achieve exceptional outcomes.  
 

What is the greatest challenge CDAOs face today, and how are you addressing it?

Balancing the rapid pace of AI innovation with the need for a trusted, scalable data foundation. While it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of new technologies, lasting value comes from solving real business problems—not deploying AI for its own sake. My focus is on building modern data capabilities that enable trusted insights, responsible AI adoption, and solutions that make work simpler, faster, and more impactful for users. 
 

What is the key to success for someone just starting out as a CDAO?

The key to success as a new CDAO is to start with the business, not the technology. Invest in building a trusted data foundation, develop strong teams and partnerships across the organization, and focus relentlessly on delivering measurable business outcomes. 
 

How do you measure success as a leader?

I measure success by the strength of my team—how well they collaborate, how empowered they feel, and the impact we create together. When people are growing, aligned around a shared purpose, and consistently delivering meaningful business outcomes, I know I've succeeded as a leader. 
 

What is the value of being a member of Gartner C-Level Communities?

The opportunity to learn from and collaborate with peers who are solving similar challenges. It provides a trusted forum to exchange practical experiences, challenge conventional thinking, and stay ahead of emerging trends.

Governing Body members share their insights and leadership perspectives to shape the agendas and topics that address the top priorities impacting business leaders today.