What Does It Actually Take to Build a Data-Driven Culture? Lessons from Kuwait's Gulf Bank.

This article examines the practical steps taken to build a data-driven culture at Kuwait's Gulf Bank during the first two years of its digital transformation under Chief Data Officer Mai B. AlOwaish. Emphasizing data quality as the foundational priority, the bank implemented a "data ambassadors" program to engage employees as both data creators and customers, supported by tailored training, internal communications, and incentives. The initiative expanded to include a "Data 101" program for all staff, fostering empowerment and collaboration that led to innovations such as improved anti-money laundering models. The authors highlight that cultural change requires persistence, broad involvement, and alignment with existing organizational values, cautioning against quick wins that overlook people and culture.