Become aData Strategist

Becoming a Data Strategist is a fantastic choice if you enjoy working with data and making strategic decisions. You’ll be at the heart of a company’s operations, influencing key decisions and helping shape the future. Plus, it’s a rapidly growing field with lots of opportunities for career advancement and innovation.

• Shape business success through data-driven decisions
• Solve real problems using advanced analytics
• High demand across industries like tech and healthcare
• Influence future trends with powerful insights

As a Data Strategist, your main job is to turn data into strategies that help businesses succeed. You’ll collect and analyse data from various sources, identify trends and patterns, and use this information to create actionable plans. Whether it’s improving marketing campaigns, optimising operations, or developing new products, your insights will be crucial in guiding business decisions.

Market Research

Understand and predict market trends to stay ahead of the competition.

Customer Insights

Analyse customer data to create personalised experiences.

Product Development

Use data to design and improve products that people love.

Optimisation

Streamline business processes to save time and money.

Predictive Analytics

Forecast future trends to make proactive decisions.

Data Strategists can work in a wide range of industries. Here are some fields you could explore:

Technology

Help tech companies develop data driven products and services.

Finance

Analyse financial data to guide investment decisions and manage risks.

Healthcare

Use data to improve patient care and streamline healthcare operations.

Retail

Understand customer behaviour to enhance shopping experiences and boost sales

Entertainment

Analyse audience data to recommend content and create engaging experiences.

Government

Help public agencies make data driven policy decisions and improve public services.

To become a successful Data Strategist, you’ll need a blend of technical and strategic skills. Here are some key skills:

Analytical Thinking

Ability to analyse complex data and extract meaningful insights.

Communication

Presenting data and strategies clearly to different audiences.

Problem Solving

Developing solutions based on data findings.

Technical Proficiency

Using tools and software for data analysis.

Strategic Planning

Creating long term plans based on data insights.

STEM subjects are the foundation to becoming a Data Strategist! Make sure you are studying hard in:

Mathematics

Essential for understanding data analysis and statistics.

Computer Science

Provides the technical foundation you’ll need for data handling.

Business Studies

Helps you understand business operations and strategy.

Economics

Useful for understanding market trends and economic principles.

English

Important for effective communication and presenting your ideas clearly.

A Data Strategist could work on some really cool projects like:

Analyse Global Trends

Predict what’s going to be the next big thing in tech, fashion, or gaming by studying patterns and data from around the world.

Advise Top Companies

Work with leaders at big firms like Google or Tesla, helping them decide where to invest millions to stay ahead of the competition.

Create Winning Marketing Strategies

Use data to figure out exactly what customers want and help brands craft perfect marketing campaigns.

Optimise the User Experience

Work with app developers to enhance user interfaces by analysing how people interact with websites and apps like TikTok or Instagram.

Use AI to Predict the Future

Collaborate with AI engineers to develop models that predict everything from stock prices to climate changes.

Improve Health Outcomes

Help healthcare providers use data to predict disease outbreaks or improve patient care by analysing medical records and trends.

Some well-known Data Strategists making significant contributions:

Dr. Katrina Wallace

Founder of Flamingo AI, she is renowned for her work in artificial intelligence and data strategy, helping businesses improve customer experience through data insights.

Dr. Kate Carruthers

As the Chief Data & Insights Officer at UNSW Sydney, Kate leverages data to influence decisions at one of Australia’s leading universities.

Fiona Milne

Fiona is a Data Strategy Lead at Accenture Australia, helping businesses unlock the power of their data to drive innovation and efficiency.

Vanessa Doake

Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Code Like a Girl, Vanessa is passionate about data-driven strategies that empower women in tech.

Tamara Mellon

As Head of Data at the National Australia Bank, Tamara uses data to shape the future of banking, ensuring customer needs are met efficiently.

Certain personality traits could indicate you might excel as a Data Strategist:

Curious

Always eager to learn and discover new insights.

Analytical

Enjoy diving into data and finding hidden patterns.

Creative

Think outside the box to develop innovative strategies.

Strategic

Able to see the big picture and plan for the future.

Communicative

Effectively share your ideas and findings with others.

Bachelor of Commerce (Business Information Systems)

Curtin University offers a Bachelor of Commerce (Business Information Systems) that includes courses in data analysis, strategic management, and decision making, making it an ideal starting point.

Master of Data Science 

Postgraduate studies are for those looking to specialise further. Master’s Degree in Business Analytics or Data Strategy offers advanced skills. The University of Western Australia provides a Master of Data Science, focusing on using data for strategic decision-making in business environments.

Combining degrees can give you a unique advantage in the world of data strategy. For example, you might study Data Science alongside Marketing to understand how data can drive effective marketing campaigns. Alternatively, combining Computer Science with Psychology can help you crack into the human aspect of data analysis, understanding user behaviour and preferences.

Another interdisciplinary approach is blending Data Analytics with Environmental Science or Healthcare. By merging these fields, you can tackle pressing global issues like climate change or healthcare accessibility using data-driven solutions. These combinations allow you to apply your data skills to real problems, making your career both meaningful and impactful.

When you study to become a Data Strategist, you’ll acquire a diverse set of skills and knowledge like how to collect, clean, and analyse data from various sources, using tools like Python, SQL, and data visualisation software. 

• Statistical methods and machine learning algorithms, enabling you to uncover valuable insights from complex datasets.

• Data management, predictive modelling, and decision making. 
• Case studies and actual scenarios, applying your analytical skills to solve practical problems.
• Develop critical thinking and communication skills, allowing you to effectively present your findings and recommendations to stakeholders.

Gaining work experience is essential for becoming a successful Data Strategist. Look for internships, part time or junior jobs. I.e. you could intern at a marketing agency and help analyse customer data to improve advertising campaigns.

Some companies offer apprenticeship programmes or on-the-job training opportunities for aspiring Data Strategists. By joining a company as a trainee or junior analyst, you can learn valuable skills and gain practical experience while earning a salary. This approach to learning allows you to develop usable skills and build your professional network.

Hackathons and Competitions

Participating in data hackathons or competitions is another great way to gain experience and build your portfolio. These events challenge you to solve problems using data, allowing you to showcase your creativity and problem solving skills. Plus, they’re a lot of fun and a fantastic way to network with professionals in the industry.

Volunteering

Volunteering for NFPs or community projects is also valuable. You could offer to help with data analysis for a local charity or assist a school in developing data driven educational programs. These experiences enhance your resume and have a positive community impact.

Technical and Strategic Management Certification

Certifications in BI platforms (Power BI, Tableau) and data tools (SQL, Python) are key for Data Strategists. These are offered by companies such as Microsoft or through online platforms like Coursera and edX. For a more strategic approach, certifications in management from institutions like the Australian Institute of Management (AIM) can be useful in developing the business acumen required for high-level strategic decisions. 

Bootcamps and Self-Learning

Short, intensive bootcamps focusing on data strategy and business analytics are increasingly popular for those wanting to transition into this field quickly. Programs like General Assembly offer practical skills and projects that prepare individuals for scenarios. Many Data Strategists are self taught through online resources. Platforms like Udacity offer Nano degrees in data strategy and analytics, allowing students to build portfolios of projects and demonstrate their skills to future employers.

Attending Industry Events and Meetups

Attending data and strategy conferences, such as those hosted by the Australian Data Science Network, is a great way to connect with industry professionals and stay updated with the latest developments.

Joining Professional Associations

Joining groups like the Australian Computer Society (ACS) or the Institute of Analytics Professionals of Australia (IAPA) can provide valuable resources, networking opportunities, and access to job postings.

Microlearning

Online platforms offer microlearning courses in data analytics, allowing you to learn specific skills or topics at your own pace. Websites like Udemy, Khan Academy, and Codecademy offer affordable courses on various data related subjects, making it easy to supplement your education.

As a Data Strategist, you can find career opportunities across a wide range of industries and locations in Australia. Data Strategists are in high demand. Whether you’re interested in working for large corporations, innovative startups, or even government organisations, you can make a real impact through data driven decision making across the country.

Western Australia

In Western Australia, the mining and resources sector offers opportunities for Data Strategists. Companies need experts to analyse geological data, optimise operations, and drive innovation in the industry. Perth, being a growing tech hub, provides opportunities in tech startups and established companies, offering a vibrant environment for data professionals.

Australia

Across Australia, Data Strategists are in demand in various industries, including finance, healthcare, and government. Cities like Sydney and Melbourne are home to numerous companies and institutions that rely on data to drive their strategies and operations, offering a wide range of job opportunities.

Rest of the World

Globally, the demand for Data Strategists is growing rapidly. In the United States, tech giants like Google, Facebook, and Amazon are always looking for talented individuals to handle their vast data needs. In Europe, cities like London, Berlin, and Amsterdam offer roles in innovative tech firms and startups. The rise of remote work also means you can find opportunities with companies around the world without leaving your home.