“The World of Data” hosted by Chris Wilkinson.

This week our team had an educational data training session hosted by Chief Data Officer and all-round data expert Chris Wilkinson . Chris is familiar with Forsyth Barnes through several partnerships and projects; we’re delighted he took some time to share his wealth of knowledge with us.

Have a read at the interview below:

Hi Chris! Thanks for chatting with us. Would love to know how you got into the world of data?

I’ve always been a little ‘geeky’ and big on technology. I love keeping on top of the latest technology trends and was afforded a newly created role within a marketing function to help create visual graphics and charts for the sales team, and it blossomed from there. And here we are 25 years later.

What would be the one piece of advice you’d relay to someone looking to excel their career in the data space?

A big one is keeping up to date with the world of data and tech advancements. Familiarise yourself with a particular area of technology you enjoy, whether it’s how to store, analyse data or storytelling. But just as important, you’ve got to learn the softer skills of being able to communicate and build relationships. Decades ago, learning technical skills was enough but now it’s important to have both.

You’ve talked about emerging trends in your presentation. We’d love to know: what would be the number one data trend to look out for in the next year?

For me, the gap is excellent tech and a growing wealth of data - so how do we bridge the gap and help businesses make better decisions? How do we make people use data-driven decisions by removing the element of fear from decision makers that we’re not taking the decision away from them but instead supporting them? This is something that hasn’t been tackled and is one that needs addressing.

As you know, we partner with emerging technology businesses. What would you say are the top three up-and-coming areas to look out for in 2023?

Firstly, everyone is using batteries, phones, homes, cars etc. and current battery tech is still pretty ancient. A company that can find a low-cost fast charging tech will be one to watch. Secondly, whole genome sequencing. I talked for years about medication and DNA analysis but looking at the complete genome sequencing - understanding what your genetics mean for you - can be transformational if we can crack it. The third one, we know there’s too much CO2 causing the heating of the planet. However, CO2 can be used as a fuel. Whoever can crack converting excess CO2 into energy solves two problems at once. NASA and Shell are working on this, and I’d love to see it happen.

You have developed a really strong relationship with our team at Forsyth Barnes; our team loves working with you and appreciates your support throughout the years. Why do you think you continue to partner with us?

I really enjoy working with the team here at FB. Everyone’s really motivated and enthusiastic, and they always display a willingness to learn. I like that there’s a real consultative approach where every consultant takes the time to learn what each organisation needs to grow and succeed.

Thank you, Chris.

Our team’s key takeaways from the session:

• The amount of information that data companies hold on to is big. There are so many tools and languages available to visualise this and target your decisions better.
• Data is essential and should be treated to create actionable change in any company. By getting a better understanding of what our clients want to achieve, we can find the best candidate for any project.
• Data is a core recurring insight that can enable a business to thrive or fail. Using data-driven decisions as a tool to help decision-makers rather than replace them.

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