Two and a half years ago, I received the call that would change the course of my professional life. A headhunter in Frankfurt’s financial sector had taken note of my work in data management and data solutions I was developing, and they wanted me to join their client. Eventually, after some initial doubts, I decided to move to Frankfurt with the hope of a new career, meeting new people, and all the other opportunities moving to this financial hub might bring.
Arriving in Frankfurt, I found myself working with prominent players in the fund and technology industries. My mission was clear: to design and implement cutting-edge data solutions that automated data feeding and streamlined processing in data warehouses. These solutions were not just about efficiency; they laid the groundwork for robust, scalable infrastructures that powered decision-making and compliance in an increasingly complex environment. In the wealth management industry, a lot of focus is now on automating data flows and generating automated reporting.
The transition wasn’t without its hurdles. As a woman in the predominantly male-dominated fields of finance and technology, I often found myself in rooms where my voice stood out not just for its ideas but also for its rarity. Nevertheless, precisely, these moments fuelled my determination to push boundaries and carve a path for others to follow.
Strength through Networks: Building a Community
Understanding the need for change beyond technology, I decided to align with organizations that shared my vision. Joining clubs such as Wirtschaftsjunioren, I began working to build networks for women who, like me, straddle the dynamic worlds of finance and technology. I hope these communities will become platforms to exchange knowledge, mentor aspiring professionals, and advocate for greater inclusion in industries that have long been perceived as exclusive.
A Vision Recognized: Winning the Thought Leader Scholarship
While balancing professional growth and community engagement, I wanted to deepen my understanding of leadership and managing companies. That’s why I pursued the Goethe MBA focusing on Data Science and Digital Transformation at Goethe Business School. I applied and won the Thought Leader Scholarship for 2024, one of my career's proudest moments. This prestigious award was given in recognition of my vision – one that reimagines the role of data in leadership and innovation.
The digital age calls for Chief Data Officers to take their rightful place on company boards. Data is no longer a back-office function; it’s the driving force behind strategy, compliance, and growth. My scholarship win is an acknowledgment of my achievements and a reflection of this vision – that we must build new paths for data intelligence to be at the heart of decision-making.
I think digital transformation is more than adopting new technologies; it is about reimagining how we work, connect, and innovate. In the age of artificial intelligence, there is immense pressure to create systems that perform efficiently and provide intuitive, user-centric experiences. My philosophy revolves around the principle that true transformation lies in integrating automation, transparency, and sustainability into the core of organizational strategies. As a millennial, I resonate with my generation’s values for sustainability, fairness, ethical imperatives of data usage, and flat hierarchies in corporate environments.
As a thought leader, I advocate for leveraging data responsibly and ensuring robust governance structures while exploring AI’s boundless potential. This dual focus helps bridge the gap between rapid technological advances and the ethical imperatives of today’s digital age.
Freelancing: Empowering Organizations with Expertise
This year, I have transitioned into freelancing and solo Entrepreneurship. I have noticed that more and more companies must change their operating models. According to Harvard Business Studies, jobs will shift towards a project-based model along with automating the operational day-to-day model.
From enabling financial institutions to streamline data processes to advising wealth managers on implementing effective data governance frameworks, my work has a singular goal: empowering organizations to unlock their full potential. Whether designing minimum viable products (MVPs) for modern data architectures or guiding clients through regulatory complexities, my approach remains rooted in practicality and foresight.
Transforming Ideas into Action
I hope that as a 2024 Winner of the Goethe Business School’s Thought Leader Scholarship, I will represent the values of GBS and make the most of the opportunities in the data field. To those navigating their career path: don’t be afraid to dream big, take risks, and create opportunities for yourself. You never know how a new city or new connections can inspire you to reach your highest potential.