Data leadership dinner: building value in data-rich businesses
In April 2019, Silverpeak co-hosted a data leadership dinner with Spectrum and Wiggin for 16 senior executives from B2B software and technology businesses. The evening brought together leaders actively building and scaling data-rich businesses, sharing candid experience and insight under Chatham House rules.
Why data strategy drives business value
Senior executives at the dinner represent organisations where data is a core commercial asset. In particular, they discussed how data strategy shapes valuation, acquisition potential and long-term competitive positioning. Furthermore, they explored the cultural and operational changes that data-first growth demands — and the risks that come with it. As a result, the conversation spanned a wide range of strategic themes, from regulatory compliance and talent retention to the commercial application of AI.
Key themes from the evening
Across the evening, participants explored nine strategic questions that define the landscape for data-rich businesses today.
The group examined how buyers assess the value of data during M&A transactions, and how businesses can build data assets that command a premium. In addition, they discussed the challenge of attracting and retaining specialist data talent in an increasingly competitive market.
Security and compliance featured prominently. Participants considered how businesses protect sensitive data against growing threat levels, and how they navigate GDPR alongside other evolving regulatory requirements. Even so, the group recognised that compliance alone does not build competitive advantage — culture does.
The evening also covered the application of AI and machine learning to commercial outcomes, including how businesses identify and monetise data assets beyond their core product. Finally, the group looked ahead to the long-term role of data in shaping business models across the B2B software sector.
Silverpeak’s work in data-rich software
Silverpeak advises founders, management teams and investors across B2B software and technology, with particular experience in data-rich businesses. Find out more about our approach to software M&A or explore our other leadership events to see how we connect senior executives across the sector.