The State of Hawaii has taken a significant step toward a data-driven future with the appointment of Rebecca Cai as its new Chief Data Officer (CDO). With a remarkable career spanning more than 20 years in the Data & Analytics field, Ms. Cai brings a wealth of experience and a formidable track record in transforming data into actionable insights, promoting transparency, ensuring accountability, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within organizations.
A Trailblazing Journey
Chief Data Officer, New York State
Ms. Cai’s journey to the pinnacle of data leadership in Hawaii commenced with her role as the Chief Data Officer for New York State. During her brief yet impactful tenure, she delved into the nuances of data governance, decision sciences, data strategies, and digital strategy, setting the stage for her distinguished career in the public sector.
Managing Director, Singularity Digital Solutions
Prior to her role with New York State, Ms. Cai served as a Managing Director at Singularity Digital Solutions. It was here that she meticulously refined her expertise in data governance, decision sciences, data strategies, and digital strategy, which would later define her career.
Expert Associate Partner & China Digital COO, McKinsey & Company
Her journey into the data analytics domain took her to McKinsey & Company, where she took on the role of Expert Associate Partner & China Digital COO. This phase enriched her understanding of data governance, decision sciences, data strategies, and digital strategy, solidifying her standing as a formidable figure in the field.
Director – Digital & Analytics, Deloitte Consulting
At Deloitte Consulting, Ms. Cai served as Director – Digital & Analytics, contributing significantly to the realms of data governance, decision sciences, data strategies, and digital strategy. Her multifaceted expertise was by now making her a leading authority in the field.
Senior Manager – Business Analytics, IBM Global Business Services
Ms. Cai’s career path led her to IBM Global Business Services, where, as a Senior Manager, she honed her skills in data governance. She ensured data quality and accessibility were central in her work, thus cementing her reputation.
Project Implementation Manager, SAP America
Her professional journey began at SAP America, where she served as a Project Implementation Manager. This formative experience laid the foundation for her illustrious career in data analytics.
An Academic Foundation
Ms. Cai’s scholastic background includes an MBA from the University of South Carolina, providing her with a strong academic foundation to complement her professional achievements. With over two decades of digital and data analytics experience primarily in the private sector, she now commits her exceptional skills and expertise to the public service arena, with the State of Hawaii poised to reap the benefits of her extensive knowledge and visionary leadership.
In Closing
Rebecca Cai’s appointment as Chief Data Officer for the State of Hawaii marks the dawn of a new era, where data will steer the course of progress and transformation. With her distinguished career, Ms. Cai is well-equipped to usher in a culture of transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement, ensuring Hawaii leverages data to build a brighter future. Her transition from the private sector to public service underscores her commitment to making data work for the betterment of communities and organizations.