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datasamurai.com

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.

Building responsible AI frameworks
Modernizing public infrastructure through data alignment
Scaling startups and social ventures with innovation consulting
Partnering with executives on enterprise transformation

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:

McKinsey & CompanyHarvard Business SchoolTableauSnowflakeSigmaDeloitteKPMGIBMGartnerNTTAccentureGovTech & Public Sector

Let’s Connect

Robert is open to collaborations, executive roundtables, and strategic conversations around AI, analytics, and the future of responsible innovation.