Discover the women and men who are advancing the use of data, inspiring their peers, and transforming organizations as we move towards a data-driven future.
Back to listingNicola’s experience and expertise
Nicola Askham, also known as The Data Governance Coach, has over 24 years experience in helping organizations design and implement effective data governance frameworks.
Working with data governance teams across all industries and sectors, especially insurance, banking, higher education, utilities, media, defense, retail and technology, she trains, coaches and provides consulting support for clients, giving them the skills and knowledge they need to implement data governance successfully.
Nicola Askham is on a mission to help organizations understand and manage their data better through her work. Over her career she has developed a practical approach that takes companies through all the steps needed to be able to successfully design and implement a data governance framework that is right for their organization. This includes a specialized focus on the soft skills essential to achieving a supported and sustainable data governance framework across the organization.
Nicola was a Committee Member of DAMA UK for 13 years and she regularly writes, presents and creates videos, blogs and a podcast on data governance best practice. She has written a book: Effective Data Governance published in February 2026.
A word from Nicola
“Data governance should enable, not block. This conviction shapes everything I do, from designing frameworks that fit organisational culture to training that focuses on 'why' before 'how.' Today's data leaders must be the bridge between technical possibility and business reality. Our sustainable impact comes from creating data governance that people actually want to use because it makes their work better.”
Florence’s inspirations
People who inspire me
John Ladley has been a tremendous inspiration to me throughout my career. As the author of the first ever book on data governance and one of the original leaders in the field, his pioneering work laid the foundation for all of us who followed. I was thrilled when he endorsed my own book—his support has meant the world to me.
Beyond John, I’m inspired by the entire data governance practitioner community: the people in the trenches sharing real challenges and solutions and supporting each other.
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