Ryan Johnson

About Ryan Johnson

Ryan T JohnsonSenior data executiveExperienced data leader with a background in AI, machine learning, data engineering, and analytics. Known for empathetic leadership and an ability to build and retain high-performing teams in all data domains. A proven track record driving data-focused strategies in high-growth environments, through a blend of analytical prowess and strategic leadership. Expertise in delivering customer-focused AI/ML features as well as critical business insights to drive business optimization and growth.My data work began in the field of neuroanatomy studying how androgens alter glial cell arborization. This led to a fellowship finding patterns in large sets of MRI data from children with Autism. I then began building and leading teams of analysts, scientists, and researchers for businesses interested in developing highly effective data capabilities. During this time I’ve found logical, quantitative, and scientific thinking universally valuable and have helped consumer-electronics, digital advertising, and software firms turn their data into impactful insights and products.I excel at communicating complex topics to diverse audiences and helping companies scale their data initiatives. Core competencies include: Data Science, Data Strategy, Acquisition Integration, Data Engineering, ML Operations (ML Ops), Revenue Funnel Metrics, Business Intelligence, Leadership, Data Architecture, Artificial Intelligence, Communication, Collaboration, Public Speaking, and PresentingIn addition to the core competencies above, I have experience in the following tools and techniques:SQL, Python, R, large language models (LLMs), retrieval augmented generation (RAG) systems, data visualization, Process Improvement

Experience

1. Vice President of Engineering

   Abre

   Feb 2024 — Present

   Team and Culture Building- Implemented a new product team org structure (squads and guilds) to improve focus and scalability- Built data engineering and security guilds, successfully recruiting talented engineers- Established quarterly lunch-and-learns to educate our product team- Presented on complex topics to the entire company to improve overall understanding of technology- Developed a uniform career ladder for technical contributors- Implemented 360 team reviews on the product team, helping grow a culture of constructive feedback- Conducted the first employee satisfaction survey in the Product organization- Developed data contracts for critical assets, cultivating a culture of valuing and protecting data.Engineering and Security- Delivered a new modern data infrastructure laying the foundation for additional features and scalability- Delivered a customer-facing AI feature powered by the new data infrastructure- Successfully advocated for rolling out more client self-service features to improve long-term company health- Strengthened our relationship with cloud service provider, securing assistance for critical upgrades, discounts and credits, and committed-use discounts- Initiated company-wide security awareness training - Developed numerous company policies on security, privacy, and compliance- Introduced engineering team to infrastructure as code and terraformed all new infrastructure

Education

• Michigan State University

  PhD, Neuroscience

  2005 — 2011

• William & Mary

  MA, Psychology

  2003 — 2005

• University of Tennessee, Knoxville

  BA, Psychology

  1997 — 2002

Skills

• Neuroanatomy
• Data Management
• Team Leadership
• Statistics
• Research
• Microsoft Office
• Analytical Skills
• Animal Behavior
• Experimentation
• Sql
• Stereology
• Physiology
• Immunohistochemistry
• Omnifocus
• Powerpoint
• Microsoft Excel
• Trend Forecasting
• Leadership
• Grant Writing
• Analysis
• Data Science
• Data Mining
• Quantitative Research
• Animal Models
• Science
• Public Speaking
• A/B Testing
• Digital Marketing
• Demand Planning
• Business Intelligence
• Confocal Microscopy
• Immunocytochemistry
• Matlab
• Psychology
• Laboratory
• Neuroscience
• Fluorescence Microscopy
• Keynote
• Group and Project Management
• Business Process Improvement