Building the very best data teams

When asked about her background, Maaike laughs when she explains, “I obtained my degree at the Hotelschool years ago, so I always thought I would become a hotel manager. However, once I started working I discovered the world of marketing, and that really turned out to be my thing. After working as an independent marketeer for a few years, I taught myself data analytics. In the end I became a true data nerd, with skills that I could use in my following roles as a data consultant, strategist, and now as a Data Craft Coördinator.”

So, what exactly does the role of Data Craft Coördinator entail? Maaike explains, “While in a company you often have one marketing or finance department, data at bol is something else. We have grown incredibly fast in recent years and now have several large data teams spread across the entire organization. They operate more or less independently. My task is to centrally support these decentralized teams and ensure they can perform their work in the best possible way.”

Over the past months, Maaike engaged in many conversations within the organization. “Because this role was completely new, I had the freedom to shape it myself. I met up for coffee with different team managers, talked to analysts, and worked closely together with HR. That’s how I slowly got to know more about the data needs at bol. For example, I noticed that our data teams were eager to collaborate but were often hindered by daily tasks. Now, I provide them with the tools to come together and really learn from each other.”

Maaike’s conversations led her to establish a data community within bol. A project that wasn’t created overnight. “The concept of a community sounds simple. Everyone comes together, enjoys it, and allocates time for it. But in practice, you’re dealing with people who are often very busy. It’s crucial to clarify a few things before starting a community. What do these people really need? And how can they get enough value from the community so they are willing to invest their time in it?”

By setting up various committees within the community, Maaike has created an environment where data analysts organize inspiration days, share documentation, and exchange tips. While she takes care of the structure, agenda, and logistics, her colleagues are now actively participating. And that feels great. “What I love about my work is that I can develop and guide a project from A to Z. It starts with identifying specific challenges, then I work with various teams on solutions, and ultimately I see how it plays out in practice. This way, I can truly make an impact, and make the role entirely my own.”

“Another great thing about working at bol? For me, that’s the trust we get. If you have a good idea, you are free to go ahead and work on it. Prefer to work in the evening, from home, or start a bit earlier? That’s fine too. The colleagues I work with are all incredibly motivated, solution-oriented, and hardworking. And I believe that the flexibility bol offers contributes to this immensely.”

Currently, Maaike is mapping out the various data teams and trends within the organization. She clarifies enthusiastically, “This information will help organize our teams even better and make them future-proof. I look forward to actively overseeing these developments in the coming years and enhancing our already exceptional data teams. There’s still so much exciting and cool stuff to do, and I’m far from done here!”