Harnessing Data for Impactful Business Transformations | Ela Osterberger (VP of Data at WeTransfer)
On this episode of The Data Storytellers podcast, we explore the dynamic world of data-driven business transformation with Ela Osterberger, Vice President of Data at WeTransfer. Ela shares her insights on the evolution of data roles, the importance of data strategy, and the ethical considerations that come with handling customer data. We delve into the challenges and opportunities of building modern data infrastructures and fostering a data-driven culture within an organization. Ela's journey from economics and econometrics to leading data initiatives offers valuable lessons on leveraging data to drive business growth and sustainability.
Connect with us:
• Website: https://thedatastorytellers.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-data-storytellers
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2N0vZtHZHgod4Tll2LX2xa
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz9e56lhYUfORiOHMiLlPmA
• Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-data-storytellers-podcast/id1493766476
00:07 - Introduction to Ela Osterberger and her role at WeTransfer
01:15 - Ela discusses her career journey and passion for data
02:41 - Focus on data engineering and data governance at WeTransfer
04:06 - State of data analytics and the importance of a practical approach
06:44 - The opportunities and challenges in product analytics and data transparency
09:14 - The importance of having a clear data strategy
10:45 - How to gain influence and persuade within the business using data
14:01 - The role of trust and communication in data leadership
16:09 - Qualities of leaders who successfully drive data transformations
18:13 - Skills necessary for data leaders to be effective and successful
20:59 - Building a data culture beyond the data team
23:41 - Ela's role as a data evangelist and the importance of data ethics
25:25 - Approaching data education across various business units
27:30 - Long-term planning and alignment in data strategy
29:20 - Ela shares what she loves about working in data analytics
30:19 - Advice for aspiring leaders in data