Hub & Spoken.

What's in this podcast?

In this podcast, Jason talks to Mahesh Bharadhwaj, Head of Europe Analytics at Funding Circle, a specialist financial institution that helps small businesses with loans and funding.

Listen to this episode on Spotify, iTunes, and Stitcher. You can also catch up on the previous episodes of the Hub & Spoken podcast when you subscribe.

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For more on this topic, read our whitepaper: Assembling your Dream Data Analytics Team

One Big Message

Data and analytics at its very core is about how to solve problems more effectively through deeper insight and more accurate facts. To efficiently carry out the complex nature of data work, a data team needs to not just do the job, but also grow as a team by contributing to the culture, and continual growth of their skills. 

[00:25] Mahesh’s journey in data and analytics, and his role at Funding Circle

[06:40] How to map out a plan and build a team capable of adding value to a company through the use of data

[11:40] Going in depth into the ‘ABC’ framework that Mahesh uses when hiring people 

[23:02] Build respect with other stakeholders and departments outside the data department

[28:00] Best practices for creating a team both from a workplace perspective – and an employees perspective to help them build their career

Small business is a primary driver of the economy

Small businesses are the backbone of the economy. They create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and support the communities in which they operate. In fact, small businesses account for nearly half of all private sector employment and generate more than two-thirds of net new jobs. Despite their importance, small businesses often face challenges in today’s marketplace, such as the ability to secure funding quickly, or difficulty applying for loans. 

Find solutions grounded in practicality

Finding data solutions to our everyday problems may look easy on the outside, but the truth is that it can be a challenge to identify and implement practical solutions. There are so many options available, each with its own set of pros and cons. Take a commonsense approach and focus on what is feasible; this can help you find workable solutions. 

Hire the right team members

There’s no question that data is one of the most important assets a company can have. However, it can be a daunting task to manage and interpret that data. Which is why it’s essential to have a strong data team in place. 

Even though you want to find a ‘unicorn’ who has a large amount of knowledge and will fit into the culture perfectly, it’s not always possible. Instead, acknowledge that you can find diamonds in the rough and help them grow. 

Take responsibility for your team members’ growth

It can be easy to fall into the trap of believing that once you have a solid team, the rest will fall into place. If you want to see your team members grow, you need to take responsibility for their development. Set clear expectations, provide feedback, and be there to help them when they need it. By taking responsibility for your team members’ growth, you’ll help them reach their full potential – and that will benefit your whole team.

To summarise

A successful data team must have the right people in place, although finding unicorn members for your team is not always possible. Accommodate team member’s growth, help them reach their optimum performance, and they’ll reach where they need to be. This includes having people on your team who can help you make better decisions and ensure that all of your efforts yield fruitful results.