A recent survey by Gartner Inc. indicates that 70% of chief data and analytics officers (CDAOs) are now primarily responsible for shaping their organisation’s artificial intelligence (AI) strategy and operating model. The findings are based on the 2025 CDAO Agenda Survey conducted between September and November 2024, which included responses from 504 data and analytics executives globally.
The report highlights a shift in the organisational influence of CDAOs, with 36% now reporting directly to the CEO, compared to 21% the previous year. This development is attributed to the growing strategic importance of data and the increasing prioritisation of AI across business functions.
Speaking at the Gartner Data & Analytics Summit in London, Sarah James, Senior Director Analyst at Gartner, stated that the role of the CDAO is becoming central to AI implementation due to their expertise in data management and cross-functional visibility. Gartner forecasts that by 2027, three-quarters of CDAOs who are not perceived as essential to their organisation’s AI outcomes may lose their C-level roles.
Gartner analysts outlined three potential directions for the evolution of the CDAO role. The first, described as the “Expert D\&A Leader,” focuses on core data management responsibilities, typically reporting into IT and overseeing areas such as business intelligence and data platforms. The second, the “Connector CDAO,” is characterised by its function as an intermediary between executive leadership and AI initiatives, integrating data-driven solutions into products and services. The third, termed the “Pioneer CDAx,” combines roles traditionally held by chief data officers, CDAOs, and chief data and AI officers, with a focus on organisational transformation, cross-functional technology application, governance, and ethical leadership. Gartner analysts advise that as the landscape continues to change, current and prospective CDAOs should align their skill development with the direction they intend to pursue within the evolving framework of AI and data leadership.
