Governing Body Spotlight

Miryem Salah is Vodafone's Director, Head of Data, Digital, Transformation & IT Hubs, known for her exceptional work in transforming data across various platforms. Charity work has been in the centre of Miryem’s life outside of work; leading research in the field of food poverty as part of ELFA and food banks. She sits on the boards of charities and has published papers aimed at sustainable development. 

Holding a Masters of Science in Public Health & Management with a career driven in Data analysis, Miryem has ensured data creates solutions within all industries. Miryem is now leading a new franchise model within Vodafone called “IT Hubs” which is taking Vodafone in a new path of managed services. In Miryem’s spare time, she likes to go hiking, with one of her accomplishments being the Camino de Santiago which took 3 weeks in total!

Learn more about the UK & Ireland CDAO community here.
 

Give us a brief overview of the path that led to your current role.

Prior to Vodafone, I was the managing director for Pronokal Canada and held numerous consultancy roles across industries in healthcare, gas and oil. The consultancy roles have been led within different skilled backgrounds such as project management, financial data analysis and operational management. I have grown a career within leadership yet always had the eye for detail in data. Within Vodafone, I have grown my career from leading retail and digital transformation, AI technology and most recently as Chief Data Officer.
 

What is one of your guiding leadership principles?

One of my crucial leadership principles is the ability to inspire and motivate your team. Effective leaders understand the power of vision and communication. By clearly articulating the organisation's goals and demonstrating unwavering commitment, leaders can foster a sense of purpose and drive among team members.
 

What is the greatest challenge facing CDAOs today, and how are you addressing it?

We consistently focus on change, and one of my primary responsibilities in change management is setting the direction. This involves providing the necessary support to my team and fostering an environment where change can thrive. By taking a structured and proactive approach, our leaders can effectively guide their teams through different transformations.
 

What is the key to success for someone just starting out as a CDAO?

A combination of strategic vision, effective communication and the ability to adapt would ensure a great start within the chief data officer role. Your team will need great steer and vision of what you are looking to achieve whilst guiding on the decision-making and aligning efforts across the company for one clear goal.  Building strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders can provide valuable insights and support, aiding in navigating complex situations.
 

How do you measure success as a leader?

The growth and achievements of our team are consistently recognised. Moreover, we take pride in seeing our team members develop their skills and emerge as innovative and nurturing leaders.  For me, success as a leader is when my team feels empowered that they can contribute to our vision and grow within the organisation.
 

What is the value of being a member of the Evanta community?

Collaborating with great minds in this community enables you to challenge the future and what could be achieved.  Working with others challenges your current ways and how we can work together to create something new. Focusing on diversity and inclusion by design and pushing ahead with story telling on how data can really help the SDGs, this will create a more sustainable world for our society and nation!
 

Evanta Governing Body members share their insights and leadership perspectives to shape the agendas and topics that address the top priorities impacting business leaders today.