Utilizing the optimal blend of human resources and technology, CDOs (Chief Digital Officers) can unlock the full potential of their digital strategies.

In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, the role of Chief Data Officers (CDOs) is becoming increasingly significant. A new study titled 'Rise of the Data Force' by Experian Data Quality reveals this ambitious role of CDOs in driving change across European multi-nationals.

According to the study, business acumen and understanding of data's power are more critical than technical skills for CDOs. This shift in focus reflects the growing importance of data in today's cloud-centric business world.

Before the cloud era, the role of a Chief Architect was to define data architecture and standards. However, with vendors mostly determining these aspects now, the CDO is left to focus on controlling and managing business data effectively.

The study emphasizes the importance of a strong link between technology and people for maximizing value. CDOs, therefore, should be innovators, communicators, and leaders of data-driven innovation, with a focus on driving organizational change and data governance.

CDOs should be senior figures with a relentless focus on business outcomes, as per Mike Ettling, President HR Line of Business at SAP. They should be hired quickly, as the role doesn't have a standard profile yet.

In Europe, companies have primarily appointed CDOs from a compliance perspective due to the importance of legislation and governance in the role. However, the role varies from market to market and region to region, with challenges such as data migration and change management being common implementation issues for businesses moving to the cloud.

The role of the CDO becomes crucial in harnessing the cloud opportunity. They are responsible for understanding how to exploit data that is relevant for business users and aligned to corporate objectives.

However, the search for the Chief Data Officer of Zurich Insurance seems to be ongoing. Although the search results mention other executive roles such as Chief Underwriting Officer and Chief Customer Officer, no CDO is identified.

Despite this, the role of the CDO is becoming more prominent as the world moves to cloud solutions. Businesses are finding simplification and standardisation in cloud solutions that were not afforded by on-premise solutions. As such, someone with a strategic view of how data impacts the business will need to oversee the stewardship and security of this data.

In conclusion, the role of CDOs is evolving rapidly, with a focus on business outcomes, innovation, and data governance. As businesses increasingly move to the cloud, the need for a strategic, data-savvy leader will only grow.

Utilizing the optimal blend of human resources and technology, CDOs (Chief Digital Officers) can unlock the full potential of their digital strategies.