(US and Canada) ThoughtSpot has named Cindi Howson as its new Chief Data and AI Strategy Officer. Howson, who has been with ThoughtSpot for nearly six years, previously served as Chief Data Strategy Officer, advising organizations on data-driven transformation.

A recognized leader in business intelligence and analytics, Howson was previously a Vice President at Gartner, where she led research on data and AI, contributed to the Analytics and BI Magic Quadrant, and introduced key industry frameworks. Before Gartner, she founded BI Scorecard, provided in-depth product evaluations, and authored several books on business intelligence. She has also held leadership roles at Deloitte & Touche and Dow Chemical.

In her new role, Howson will continue to guide organizations in navigating the evolving AI landscape, ensuring responsible AI adoption, and helping leaders craft effective data and AI strategies.

Howson emphasizes that her role is not about executing a company’s AI initiatives but rather helping leaders navigate and shape them. “I am not the one executing your strategy — I am helping you craft it,” she shared on LinkedIn. Despite her strategic focus, she remains hands-on, continuously sharpening her expertise to stay ahead in the evolving world of data and AI.