Chief data officers hire for tech innovation | Computer Weekly

"While the role of chief digital officer (CDO) is regarded as quite diverse, a study from Deloitte suggests CDO's recognise the need for a strong data strategy, regardless of whether their organisation's operational model is centralised or decentralised. Deloitte noted that it's important for CDOs to outline a clear direction of travel for data in their organisation, to enable a cohesive approach to data and avoid common challenges that arise from siloed operations and duplicated effort."

"According to Deloitte, a clear, documented and shared vision is therefore a key tool, enabling CDOs to articulate how data should be used in their organisation to drive performance and achieve the organisation's strategic objectives. The company's Chief data officer survey 2025, based on a poll of 81 CDOs, reported that 70% of respondents are either implementing artificial intelligence (AI) systems or conducting experimental proof-of-concept projects to understand its potential."

"Deloitte noted that while few CDOs indicate that AI is transforming their organisations currently - the data shows a positive indication that CDOs are looking to move towards utilising AI, and further development of AI capabilities are therefore required to drive this. The research found that CDOs in organisations with higher perceived data management maturity demonstrate a strategic shift towards leveraging data for business value."

CDOs recognize the necessity of a strong, shared data strategy whether operating within centralised or decentralised models. A clear direction for data use prevents silos and duplicated effort and enables cohesive organisational approaches. A documented, shared vision helps articulate how data should drive performance and strategic objectives. Deloitte’s Chief data officer survey 2025 of 81 CDOs found 70% are implementing AI systems or running proof-of-concept projects. Few report AI as currently transformative, yet many intend to scale AI, requiring further capability development. In higher-maturity organisations, priorities shift toward AI/GenAI (67%) and data products (56%). Lower-maturity organisations prioritise data governance (63%), strategy (41%) and quality (33%).

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