Most CDAOs Are Responsible for AI Strategy and Operating Model

Seventy percent of chief data & analytics officers (CDAOs) have the primary responsibility for building the AI strategy and operating model for the organization, according to a new Gartner survey. The survey for 2025 was conducted from September through November 2024 among 504 data and analytics executive leaders across the world.

“2025 is a critical year for CDAOs, as AI presents a new opportunity for them to establish their rank in AI leadership,” said Sarah James, Senior Director Analyst at Gartner. “CDAOs’ exposure across the organization, combined with their AI-ready data expertise, positions them uniquely to lead, guide, and challenge their respective organizations to successfully deliver value from AI. This is making the CDAO’s role pivotal to AI success. No other role has the opportunity to make the necessary connections and be at the center of the D&A and AI coalition of the willing,” said James.

Gartner predicts that by 2027, 75% of CDAOs not seen as essential to their organization's AI success will lose their C-level position. The CDAO role has become more established and strategic because of the complexity and ubiquity of data, its use, and its value. The survey found that CDAOs reporting to the CEO increased to 36% in 2025, up from 21% in 2024. However, the role of CDAO is evolving due to the prioritization of AI within organizations. While the CDAO role is secure, organizations are exploring different structures for AI leadership.

Gartner analysts foresee the CDAO role evolving in three distinct directions: Expert D&A Leader, Connector CDAO, and Pioneer CDAx. “D&A leadership will continue to diverge in the near future, and existing and aspiring CDAOs should develop their skills and expertise that align with their chosen path. This will help them to enhance their role and place in AI leadership,” said James.