The Hidden Cost of Poor Data Quality

With Carol Kim — Executive Director, IBM

Can an organisation really be data-driven if its data can't be trusted?

In this episode, Ben Parker speaks with Carol Kim about why Data Governance and Data Quality are fundamental to better decision-making and what happens when organisations fail to get them right.

Carol explores how poor-quality data affects far more than technology, creating hidden costs across decision-making, operations and the wider business.

Drawing on her journey from finance into technology and Data and AI leadership, Carol also discusses the importance of curiosity, storytelling and authentic leadership — and the lessons she's learned navigating transformation across different cultures and environments.

You’ll hear practical insights on:

• Why trusted data is essential for better decision-making
• The hidden business costs of poor Data Quality
• Where Data Governance typically breaks down
• How people, process and technology need to work together
• What organisations need to build effective Data Governance
• Why storytelling matters for Data leaders
• The importance of curiosity and continuous learning in leadership

Chapters

00:00 The importance of continuous learning
02:01 Carol's career and leadership journey
07:54 Why storytelling matters in Data
09:59 Leadership and career transformation
15:13 Why Data Governance & Data Quality matter
24:06 Final thoughts

Thank you for listening!