Steven Watson
About Steven Watson
Steven Watson serves as the VP and Head of Data Architecture at AXA XL, where he leads the Move to the Cloud transformation program. With extensive experience at XL Group plc, he has held various roles in data architecture and management since 2003.
Current Role at AXA XL
Steven Watson serves as the VP, Head of Data Architecture at AXA XL, a division of AXA, since 2019. In this role, he guides and supports the Move to the Cloud (MttC) transformation program, which focuses on transitioning from legacy on-premise data centers. He has built a data architecture capability that accommodates approximately 20 concurrent initiatives of varying sizes. Additionally, he runs the AXA XL Data Design & Implementation Authority and supports multiple data science and machine learning initiatives, including the use of unstructured data.
Previous Experience at XL Group plc
Before joining AXA XL, Steven Watson held various positions at XL Group plc. His roles included Software Engineering Intern, Subject Matter Expert & Technical Architect, and VP, IT Manager - Master Data Management. He worked in Hartford, Connecticut, where he contributed to operational transformation and data architecture solutions. His experience spanned from 2003 to 2018, during which he held positions such as AVP, Center of Excellence Lead - Data Management and Technical Team Lead for various insurance applications.
Education and Expertise
Steven Watson earned a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Computer Science from The University of Connecticut, where he studied from 2000 to 2004. He furthered his education with a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) from The University of Connecticut School of Business, completing the program from 2007 to 2009. Additionally, he participated in Leadership Greater Hartford in 2007, enhancing his leadership skills and professional network.
Technical Leadership and Initiatives
In his current and previous roles, Steven Watson has maintained awareness of emerging technologies and trends, assessing their impact on data, technology, and the insurance landscape. He is a member of the Move to the Cloud (MttC) Leadership Council, which underscores his commitment to innovation in data architecture. His leadership in data architecture has supported various initiatives, including those focused on data science and machine learning.
Early Career and Development
Steven Watson began his career as a Resident Assistant at the University of Connecticut's Department of Residential Life from 2002 to 2004. He transitioned into the technology sector with roles at XL Group plc, starting as a Software Engineer in 2004. His early experiences laid the foundation for his expertise in software engineering and data management, leading to a successful career in data architecture and operational transformation.