The latest installment in our Q&A series with female leaders in data features Jacqueline Paneque, Head of Data Literacy and Data Quality at TE Connectivity. (Read our previous Q&A here.)

Jacqueline Paneque has long been fascinated with the power of data. After transitioning from a career in finance, she worked her way up to become head of data literacy and data quality at TE Connectivity, a leader in industrial technology manufacturing. She is currently responsible for improving data literacy, ensuring data quality, and maintaining trusted, discoverable data at her organization. You can follow her on LinkedIn.

What inspired you to choose a career in data?

I actually came from a finance background, so a career in data wasn’t on my radar at all in the beginning. But through various roles at different companies, I quickly realized that data was at the root of many of the issues I was facing – mostly the quality of it. After a few years in finance-related roles and still dealing with the same “data problems,” I saw a position in data governance pop up at my company (though it was marketed as “business intelligence analyst,” which honestly sounded pretty intimidating). I was curious, so I took a shot and reached out to the hiring manager for a chat. That’s when I was given the chance to step into the role. It was definitely a leap, but once I got involved, I grew to really enjoy the field. The constantly evolving nature of data and the endless learning opportunities are what really drew me in. I’ve always considered myself a “forever learner,” and the data world is the perfect place to keep growing. It’s been an unexpected but rewarding shift!

What has been the biggest challenge in your career so far?

The biggest challenge I’ve faced in my career has been gaining a seat at the table for data governance/data quality. Often seen as an afterthought and deprioritized in favor of quick results, data governance is difficult to establish and integrate effectively. Coming from a non-data background, I initially faced skepticism about my understanding of data management, making it harder to advocate for its importance and secure buy-in from stakeholders who viewed data more as a byproduct than a strategic asset.

Data roles are often seen as purely technical, making it challenging to break into the space and prove your value. This is especially true in sectors where strict data governance isn’t legally required, and data literacy may be low. It’s not just about implementing data systems; it’s about fostering a culture where data-driven decision-making becomes second nature. Bridging the gap between business and data teams has required patience, adaptability, and a strong foundation in both data governance and business strategy. Demonstrating the value of data through quick wins and focusing on the human aspect of adoption has been key to overcoming these challenges and proving my place in the space.

Best advice you’d give to other women aspiring to become data leaders?

My advice is to trust in your background and skills. Regardless of your background, your experience is valuable in the data world. The key is to be adaptable, stay curious, and embrace continuous learning – this field moves fast, and there’s always something new to explore. Also, don’t be afraid to take risks or look for a “stretch assignment” to push your boundaries.

Where do you see the future of women in data?

I’m really excited about the direction women in data are heading. The field is growing rapidly, and there are increasing opportunities for women to step into leadership roles or enter the “data space.” It’s no longer just about the technical side – roles in areas like data governance, quality, and literacy are particularly exciting because they make the transition more accessible to everyone in an organization and are less intimidating for those looking to get involved. I envision a future where diverse perspectives shape every facet of data, making it an integral part of both professional and personal life.

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