Commercial Observer: Why Tomorrow's Top Executives Will Speak Data feat. John Carrafiell

In this thought leadership article, BGO Co-Founder and Co-CEO John Carrafiell argues that data science must move from the margins to the core of real estate investment firms. He emphasizes that the success of data adoption depends not only on technology or talent but on culture—starting with leadership commitment. Carrafiell highlights how BGO has integrated data scientists into investment teams to enable real-time, collaborative decision-making that blends human experience with analytical insight.
Carrafiell underscores that tomorrow’s top executives must be strategically fluent in data, even if not technically trained. He advocates for a shift in mindset where data science enhances rather than replaces human judgment, allowing organizations to challenge assumptions, make evidence-backed decisions, and build a learning-driven culture. The piece closes with a call for leaders to embrace AI and continuous innovation from the top down.