Data Privacy in a Reconfigured Digital World: Trust, Choice, and Leadership
By Kathryn Gulifa,
General Manager Data and Analytics, HBF Health
Deputy Chair, IAPA Advisory Committee
Over the past decade, the digital landscape has transformed more than just technology - it has reshaped how we interact, connect, and trust. Interpersonal relationships, business models, and even government engagement now operate in ecosystems powered by data. This shift has reconfigured the dynamics between people and organisations, creating both unprecedented opportunities and profound responsibilities.
Choice in the Age of Data
One of the most striking changes is the spectrum of willingness to share personal data. Some individuals freely disclose details to social platforms, while others guard their information closely. Even within the same person, the level of sharing varies depending on the context - what we share with a retailer may differ from what we share with a healthcare provider.
The common thread? Choice. People want control over what they share, when they share it, and with whom. Respecting that choice is no longer optional; it’s foundational to trust.
Trust as the New Currency
Willingness to share data is deeply connected to trust. When individuals believe their data will be handled ethically, securely, and transparently, they are more likely to engage. For businesses, this means trust isn’t just a compliance checkbox - it’s a competitive advantage.
Organisations that fail to earn trust risk more than regulatory penalties; they risk losing relevance in a world where customers increasingly vote with their data.
The AI Acceleration Factor
The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence amplifies both the benefits and the risks of data-driven innovation. AI enables hyper-personalisation, predictive insights, and automation at scale - but it also magnifies the consequences of poor data governance.
Non-compliance with privacy regulations in an AI-driven world isn’t just a legal issue; it’s an existential one. Algorithms trained on improperly sourced or unsecured data can lead to biased outcomes, reputational damage, and regulatory sanctions. As AI accelerates, so does the need for robust privacy frameworks that safeguard individuals while enabling responsible innovation.
Implications for Businesses
This dynamic creates a delicate balance: personalisation versus privacy. While data enables tailored experiences, it also amplifies the need for robust governance and ethical practices. Regulations set the baseline, but true leadership goes beyond compliance - it embeds privacy into the DNA of business strategy.
The Role of Data & Analytics Leaders
As leaders in data and analytics, we have a critical role to play in shaping this future. Here’s where we start:
- Embed privacy-by-design into every solution.
- Champion transparency - make consent clear and meaningful.
- Educate teams and stakeholders on responsible data use.
- Advocate for ethical governance frameworks that prioritise people over profit.
- Audit AI models for compliance and fairness - because trust in algorithms is trust in the organisation.
Our influence extends beyond technical decisions; it shapes culture. By leading with integrity, we can ensure innovation and privacy coexist.
A Call to Action
Let’s commit to building a digital future where trust and choice are non-negotiable. The question isn’t whether privacy matters - it’s how we, as leaders, make it matter every day.
How is your organisation balancing innovation with privacy in the age of AI?
About the Author
Kathryn is an IAPA specialist advisory committee member
A passionate and experienced Analytics executive and evangelist, Kathryn currently occupies the role of General Manager Data & Analytics at HBF.
Kathryn has an education in Finance/Econometrics and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company directors. Kathryn brings expertise in Analytics Transformation across the full value chain, from data to advanced analytics, honed over more than a decade in banking, government, retail and private health insurance.
Kathryn is a vocal advocate for gender diversity in the Analytics industry and hold seats on the Advisory Boards of the Institute of Analytics Professionals of Australia (IAPA), RMIT Digi3 and Corinium’s CDAO conference series, and is an active contributor to industry initiatives like the development of an industry accreditation framework, consultation on university curriculum and judging of the Top 25 Analytics Industry Leaders since its’ inception.