DataIQ is proud to announce THE most influential person in data and AI for 2026 as Laia Collazos, Chief Data and Analytics Officer,
@CocaColaEP.
Leading global data and analytics for one of the world’s largest consumer goods organisations, Laia oversees platforms, governance, insight, data products, data science and AI. All with a clear ambition: to “make data matter by driving value at scale.” She believes that data is not just an asset. It is “the language that articulates how a business operates.”
Laia's career spans software engineering, international consulting, global media investment and executive technology leadership. She understands that data must influence real operational decisions — not sit on the sidelines.
Today, she is accelerating responsible AI adoption through a global AI Incubator and Council model, powered by hundreds of champions across the business. The approach is simple: “learn by doing, capture value, and deliver AI responsibly.”
Laia believes the next chapter of data leadership requires balancing strategic vision with attention to detail. Recognising that scaling AI is not about pilots, but about embedding capability with governance, clarity and influence.
Their advice to aspiring C-suite leaders?
“Do not follow a straight line. Pack your CV with different experiences. There is no set path, but it is a fun journey, enjoy it!”
Read their path to power here:
dataiq.global/dataiq100/laia…