Dave Cameron helped build analytics at Merkle (years before the $1.5B Dentsu acquisition), led Data Science as a Global VP at Nielsen, and now runs an independent consultancy while teaching business analytics at universities like the University of Chicago. Dave’s through-line: make data understandable, lead people to find work that fits them, and choose work that aligns your strengths—even if that means leaving a rocket ship to be present for your kids.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• What 3× growth changes: How Dave helped Merkle go from $25M → $75M and how that changed his career.
• How to build analytics that matter: Start with the decision, not the dashboard.
• Incentives drive teams: How variable comp/profit-sharing changes who works for a company
• Fit is greater than title: A quick filter—energy × ability × values—to choose roles you’ll thrive in.
• Quit Fast (protect your time): If it doesn’t fit your strengths, cut your losses—then move on.

Guest:

• Dave Cameron — Data & Marketing Analytics leader; former Global VP of Data Science (Nielsen); consultant & lecturer.
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dfcameron/