Christian Franklin

About Christian Franklin

I help organizations drive digital transformation by harnessing the power of data, analytics, and AI to create measurable, sustainable impact. As a Sr. Director at phData, I lead strategic relationships with enterprise SaaS and digital-native companies, designing solutions that balance ambitious vision with pragmatic execution—what I call the art of the possible while staying attainable.My work spans three dimensions: strategic client leadership, where I architect multi-year data and AI transformation roadmaps aligned with business strategy; practice development and thought leadership, where I build differentiated frameworks around data products, semantic modeling, and AI enablement; and executive advisory, where I serve as a trusted counselor to C-suite leaders navigating the intersection of technology innovation and organizational change.I bring over 30 years of experience working with global enterprises, fast-scaling startups, and innovative mid-market leaders. My approach is rooted in first principles thinking, product thinking, and domain-driven design—enabling me to facilitate the difficult conversations about investment prioritization, capability building, and balancing innovation with operational stability.We\'re in the midst of a technological renaissance where the convergence of GenAI, machine learning, and cloud computing is reshaping industries. Digital is no longer an aspiration—it\'s the foundation. Organizations need both the vision to see what\'s possible and the discipline to execute what\'s attainable. That\'s where I focus my energy: partnering with brilliant teams to solve complex challenges and create lasting value.Specialties: Generative AI Strategy, Data Product Development, Semantic Modeling, AI Enablement, Data Governance, Executive AdvisoryIndustry Focus: Enterprise SaaS, Digital-Native Companies, Ad/MarTech, B2B Software & TechnologyLet\'s shape the future of business together—one strategic data innovation at a time.

Experience

1. Sr Director

   phData

   Feb 2026 — Present · San Francisco, CA, US

   Strategic Client Leadership & Revenue GrowthOwn and expand relationships with enterprise SaaS and digital-native companies and help drive multi-year data and AI transformation roadmaps that align technology investments with business strategy. Responsible for revenue growth through both account expansion and new client acquisition in strategic market segments.Capabili Development & Thought LeadershipDevelop differentiated frameworks and methodologies around data products, semantic modeling, AI enablement, and governance. Build intellectual capital that positions the firm\'s market leadership while mentoring client principals and engagement leads. Contribute to external brand through industry speaking, writing, and advisory participation.Executive Advisory & TransformationServe as a trusted advisor to C-suite and senior executives, translating complex technical architectures into business value. Facilitate strategic conversations around organizational change, investment prioritization, and innovation execution—bridging the gap between vision and practical implementation.Go-to-Market Strategy & Capability BuildingShape service offerings, engagement models, and market positioning for strategic accounts. Influence organizational priorities, including talent development, skill-building initiatives, and strategic planning. Drive thought leadership that elevates both client outcomes and firm capabilities.Core ApproachApply first principles thinking, product thinking, and domain-driven design to craft solutions that balance ambitious vision with pragmatic execution—focusing on the art of the possible while staying attainable.

Education

• California State University, Chico

  BS, International Business/Finance

  1981 — 1985

Skills

• Software Development
• Solution Selling
• Software Project Management
• Architecture
• Start-Ups
• Business Alliances
• Business Intelligence
• Healthcare Information Technology
• Solution Architecture
• Storage Solutions
• Software as a Service (Saas)
• Information Technology
• IT Management
• Salesforce.com
• Sales Enablement
• Virtualization
• Entrepreneurship
• IT Strategy
• Data Warehousing
• Professional Services
• Leadership
• B2b
• Management
• Business Analysis
• Storage Optimization
• Enterprise Software
• Enterprise Architecture
• Disaster Recovery
• Go-to-Market Strategy
• Strategic Partnerships
• IT Transformation
• Data Center
• Saas
• Requirements Analysis
• Cloud Computing
• Cross-Functional Team Leadership
• Integration
• Big Data
• Storage
• Consulting