Robert Ayala
CEO • Founder
Strategic Technologist. Human-Centered Innovator.
Current Mission
Robert Ayala’s mission is to build systems that empower decision-makers, elevate communities, and prepare organizations for what’s next. As CEO and Founder of Data Samurai, he helps public and private entities harness the power of data, AI, and governance to create lasting impact.
Career Highlights
Data Samurai
Founder & CEO | 2014–Present
Leads enterprise innovation in AI, analytics, and modernization strategy. Advisor to startups, governments, and Fortune 500s.
Centene
Enterprise Governance Lead | 2023–2024
Directed data governance, analytics culture, and strategy enablement across national healthcare systems.
Salesforce + Tableau
Director of Innovation Consulting | 2021–2023
Partnered with global healthcare and strategic accounts to embed AI, data platforms, and innovation roadmaps.
Blue Cross Blue Shield LA
Manager of BI & Health Informatics | 2015–2019
Built analytics systems and rapid prototypes to support care outcomes, provider performance, and executive reporting.
Walmart HQ
Principal Strategist | 2013–2015
Architected customer knowledge platforms, unified retail analytics, and managed IT vendor alignment globally.
Dell
Various Leadership Roles | 1997–2013
Progressed through global finance, HR, analytics, and strategy roles supporting M&A, operations, and consulting efforts.
Career Timeline
Dell
1997–2013
Finance & IT Strategy
Walmart HQ
2013–2015
Customer Platform
BCBS LA
2015–2019
Health Informatics
Data Samurai
2014–Present
Founder & CEO
Salesforce
2021–2023
Innovation Director
Centene
2023–2024
Governance Lead
Strategic Collaborations
Robert has worked with top institutions across consulting, academia, technology, and government to deliver scalable transformation projects:
Let’s Connect
Robert is open to collaborations, executive roundtables, and strategic conversations around AI, analytics, and the future of responsible innovation.
