Oxitec People: Mayur Yadav, Head of Data Management, UK
Oxitec People: Mayur Yadav, Head of Data Management, UK
Can you tell us about your role at Oxitec and what it entails?
I lead the Oxitec data team who build our global data, AI, and IT systems including apps and dashboards, ensuring these systems are solid and support Oxitec’s strategy, while also keeping our IT operations aligned with our worldwide business goals and mission. A key part of my role is to provide guidance and direction to the data experts and external partners who implement these systems.
What motivated you to join Oxitec’s mission?
This one is simple. Great people and a great mission. I was impressed (and still am) with the clear, impactful mission that was set out and the innovative technology. This was further reinforced by the dedication, enthusiasm and scientific mindset of the Oxitec team. Although my background is not in biology or entomology, I believed that I could make a positive impact, bringing a decade of data knowledge from the financial and energy industries, and also learn a lot in the process!
What do you enjoy about your role?
I really enjoy supporting my team build beautiful data systems and collaborating with great people from all over the world across the business. Everyone is passionate about their work and open to ideas. In the data team, we create new things daily and being able to provide guidance in this process is so rewarding. Thanks to our clear mission and innovative technology, we’re solving new challenges every day and fostering fresh thinking. With the growth of AI and the potential opportunities it presents, the team is always learning. I also enjoy solving puzzles and learning new things, which suits the data role well.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue your area of work?
Everyone has a unique journey, and while not strictly advice, I think these following principles are a reflection of mine. Know your values and maintain a growth mindset. Strive to work with great people and be open to other peoples’ viewpoints, as working together you can achieve more. Commitment to personal development, helping others, and broadening the vision are all essential for cultivating leadership skills. Embrace new technologies as the landscape is evolving exponentially in this new, AI age; but always ensure your work serves the overall mission. A strong focus on building things that will make tangible, positive differences is important. When it comes to data systems, I also feel a great design and user experience are crucial for delivering impact and driving adoption.