Hazel Finlayson

HEAD OF DATA INSIGHTS Bella & Duke

Hazel Finlayson is a strategic and impact-driven data leader with over 15 years’ experience transforming data into business value across the public and private sectors. As the first Head of Data I at Bella+Duke, Hazel built the organisation’s data function from the ground up, establishing a scalable tech stack and driving a truly data-guided culture. She specialises in aligning data strategies with commercial objectives and securing investment by demonstrating clear ROI through advanced analytics, including predictive churn and customer lifetime value modelling. At the CDO Retail Exchange, Hazel will share her playbook for ruthless prioritisation and maintaining innovation momentum within a "squeezed" retail landscape.

Agenda Day 1

8:50 AM KEYNOTE PANEL DISCUSSION: THE 2026 RETAIL DATA PLAYBOOK: FROM DATA GOVERNANCE TO SCALING AI - FUNDING, FOCUS, AND WINNING IN A FLAT-GROWTH MARKET

With retail sales flattening, volumes declining and retail confidence still in negative territory, CDOs are being asked to deliver AI-led growth without much top-line tailwind. This panel unpacks how data leaders secure funding, prioritise ruthlessly, and influence the C-suite in a squeezed retail environment.

Understand how flat or volatile retail demand and fragile consumer confidence are reshaping the CDO mandate in retail.

• Discover funding narratives that resonate with CEOs and CFOs when sales growth is weak, but AI and data investment needs grow.

• Explore practical tactics for aligning product, tech, trading and finance around a shared value roadmap.

• Expand on a playbook for sustaining backing across budget cycles and leadership changes.

Check out the incredible speaker line-up to see who will be joining Hazel.

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