Governing Body Spotlight

Avinash Tripathi is an Analytics Evangelist, Board Member and an avid public speaker with over 20+ years of experience in higher education. 

Avinash is passionate about using data to make a positive impact on the sector and actively contributes insights through industry publications, blogs and conferences. He is also a Co-Chair of the Atlanta CDAO Community.

Avinash is currently Vice President of Analytics at University of Phoenix, one of the largest online universities in the world.

Learn more about the Atlanta CDAO community here.
 

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

I've been working as an analytics practitioner for over 20 years. My journey began as an analyst at WPP, a prominent global company focused on creative transformation. At the time, data and analytics were often considered support functions within businesses. However, times have changed significantly with data being recognized as a critical component for organizations of all sizes.

After a few years, I transitioned into a senior role at a global Higher Education company, where I built teams comprising of data scientists, data engineers, and analysts. As my career progressed, I took on more leadership positions, where I devised problem-solving approaches that boosted efficiency and contributed to growth.

In my most recent roles, I have had the responsibility of aiding two of the largest online universities in the world in establishing a culture that values data-driven decision making. Throughout my career, I have demonstrated a passion for turning ideas into outcomes. These skills and experiences have led me to become a highly sought-after analytics practitioner.
 

What is one of your guiding leadership principles?

Use analytics ethically and responsibly.
 

With disruption being a key theme of recent years, where do you see the CDAO role going in the next 1-2 years?

In the next 1-2 years, I see CDAOs focusing on the following key areas:

• Extracting value from investments in data. According to McKinsey 8% of organizations successfully scale their analytics efforts to derive value from their data.
• Embracing AI for impact with ethics and responsibility. AI possesses the potential to revolutionize industries; however, it is crucial to employ AI in a responsible and ethical manner. CDAOs should collaborate with stakeholders to establish guidelines for AI usage ensuring that its applications are aligned with ethical principles and contribute positively to society.
• Cultivating a culture driven by data. A data driven culture entails fostering an environment where everyone within the organization is encouraged to utilize data for decision making purposes. CDAOs need to collaborate with leaders in order to cultivate a culture where employees feel comfortable leveraging data as a valuable organizational asset.
   

What advice would you give to someone just starting out as a CDAO?

Embrace the mindset of learning. The realm of data science and analytics is ever changing, demanding that CDAOs maintain a commitment to learning. To remain abreast of the trends it is essential for them to engage in reading, attend conferences, etc. that keep them at the forefront of their field.
 

Tell us three fun facts about yourself.

1. Known for my skills as a master of ceremonies (MC or emcee)
2. Fluent in multiple languages i.e., speak, read and write.
3. Have a passion for men's fashion brands.

What is the value of joining an Evanta community? 

Data is a rapidly evolving field. It can be hard to keep up with the latest trends on your own. Evanta curates a professional community that offers invaluable networking and learning opportunities. What differentiates Evanta from other communities is the Evanta team. They have created a benchmark for professionalism. We're all passionate about data, and we're all committed to making a difference in the world. I'm excited to see what the future holds for Evanta, and I'm proud to be a part of it.
 

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

by CDAOs, for CDAOs
 

Join the conversation with peers in your local CDAO community.