Meenal Iyer is a Data and Analytics strategist and transformational leader with over 20 years of experience building data and analytics platforms, driving enterprises to be insights-driven. She specializes in data literacy, monetization, democratization, and crafting enterprise data strategies from vision to execution. Her expertise extends to AI and machine learning, and enterprise data governance. Passionate about leveraging data to create value and enable data-driven decisions, Meenal is also a thought leader and an active member of Data and Analytics executive networks in Northern California, contributing to the advancement of the field.
Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Meenal shared her professional trajectory, insights on the future of data and analytics and how organizations must prepare for the opportunities and challenges that may lie ahead, significant career milestone, future plans, words of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.
Hi Meenal. What inspired you to pursue a career in data and analytics, and how has your journey evolved over the past 20+ years?
I stepped into the world of data by chance. Early in my career, I had the opportunity to build a leasing data mart from scratch, and I was immediately hooked. I enjoyed the challenges it presented and decided to grow in this space. As I delved deeper, I realized the immense value data could bring beyond just reporting—it could drive decisions, strategies, and innovation. That realization pulled me further, and now I can’t imagine my life without data. Over the years, I’ve intentionally worked across multiple industries to learn about different businesses, solve diverse data problems, and help organizations become data-driven. This varied experience has given me a playbook to help organizations succeed with data. I hope to continue in this field until I retire—it’s truly my passion.
What do you love the most about your current role?
What I love most is seeing data generate tangible value, whether through monetization, cost optimization, or influencing strategy. My role as a data leader is unique because it allows me to drive data-driven decision-making and transform the data culture within the organization. Watching this transformation unfold and knowing I’ve played a part in it makes me proud and fuels my passion for what I do.
What do you see as the future of data and analytics, and how do you think organizations can best prepare for the opportunities and challenges ahead?
AI is set to revolutionize every aspect of data and analytics. It will transform how we ingest, process, and report data, how we democratize it, how we tell stories with it, and how we build trust in data to ensure that AI and machine learning models are reliable. The key challenge for organizations is to ensure their data strategy incorporates AI effectively. It’s also crucial to upskill teams and provide them with a sense of security, helping them understand that AI will evolve their roles rather than replace them. The opportunity lies in using AI to enhance efficiency and productivity, treating it as a thought partner rather than just a tool. Organizations that embrace this mindset will be better positioned to thrive in the future.
How do you stay current with the latest trends and developments in data and analytics, and what sources do you rely on for insights and information?
I stay current by subscribing to newsletters that provide daily updates on the world of data and analytics. I dedicate an hour each day to reading these summaries, diving deeper into topics that catch my interest. I also follow top leaders in the field on LinkedIn, attend webinars and conferences as a speaker or panelist, and actively engage with the data and analytics community. Being a thought leader in these groups allows me to share my experiences while learning from others. Additionally, I advise VC firms and interact with early-stage startups, which helps me stay ahead of the curve and understand emerging trends.
Who has been a significant influence or mentor in your career, and how have they helped shape your professional journey?
My first manager at my first full-time job had a profound impact on my career. He taught me how to think about data, lead with a data-driven mindset, and partner effectively with the business. He also showed me how to build high-performing teams, empower them, and help them succeed. His guidance shaped my approach to leadership and inspired me to focus on driving organizations to be data-driven and innovative.
What has been your most career-defining moment that you are proud of?
There have been many defining moments, but the one that stands out most is when I built my first Customer Lifetime Value model. At the time, I was a data engineer, and the head of revenue management asked me to operationalize a model his team had developed. I had to learn Java within a week to implement it—this was before the days of YouTube and readily available online resources. That experience opened my eyes to how data is used in the real world, and I’ve never looked back since. It sparked my passion for customer analytics and for driving organizations to be data-driven, which has been my guiding principle ever since.
How do you prioritize your well-being and self-care amidst a demanding career?
I make exercise a priority, dedicating at least 60 minutes every day to physical activity, preferably outdoors. Whether it’s a walk, bike ride, or gym workout, exercise gives me the space to think about pressing issues without the distractions of a laptop or phone. It’s energizing and refreshing, and I often find solutions to problems during this time. I also use this time to listen to podcasts and audiobooks, which helps me stay informed and inspired.
What are your long-term career aspirations, and how do you see yourself evolving as a leader over the next five years?
My long-term vision is to become a Chief Data and Analytics Officer and eventually grow into the role of Chief AI Officer. As a data leader, I’m uniquely positioned at the intersection of business and technology. I see myself as a business partner, not just a technologist, and my focus is on ensuring that the value proposition of data remains high within the organization. Over the next five years, I aim to continue driving innovation, building high-performing teams, and helping organizations unlock the full potential of their data.
Which technology are you investing in now to prepare for the future?
AI is the technology I’m investing my time and resources in. It has the potential to drive efficiency, scale, and impact across every area of an organization. By understanding and leveraging AI, I’m preparing myself and my teams to stay ahead of the curve and embrace the opportunities it presents.
What advice would you give to aspiring data and analytics leaders looking to build their careers in this field?
Always remember that technology is an enabler, not the driver of strategy. Use AI as a thought partner to scale and enhance your strategy, but don’t rely on it to define your direction. Data is at the heart of AI, so it’s critical to build trust in your data and ensure that trust extends to any AI outputs. Finally, continuous learning is essential. With AI evolving rapidly, it’s important to stay ahead by upskilling yourself and your team. Embrace change, and view it as an opportunity to grow and innovate.