Meet one of our talented data enthusiasts, Senior Consultant Toni Baron. We recently caught up with Toni to learn more about her passions of business intelligence, operational KPI analysis, quilting and baking. Keep reading to explore why Toni is dedicated to creating an insightful data journey that makes a lasting impact.
1. Tell us a little bit about what you do?
My core expertise lies in business intelligence and operational KPI analysis. I specialise in creating interactive and insightful dashboards that drive growth and make tasks like board reporting more efficient and less burdensome.
However, my passion goes beyond just the end visualisation. I’m deeply invested in the entire data journey. This includes getting hands-on with raw data, understanding quality issues, and collaborating with data engineers to build the most optimised reporting data models.
I’m particularly interested in understanding what senior leaders use to make their day-to-day decisions, identifying gaps in their data, and uncovering insights they might not even know they need.
I’m a strong believer in building a lasting data culture, bringing together system developers, data builders, and end users to foster a holistic appreciation and understanding of the data journey. I also emphasise the benefits of governance and version control within visualisation teams to ensure sustainable growth rather than letting data practices fade into the background.
2. What do you enjoy most about your job?
I enjoy helping companies achieve their data visions and meet their needs. There are countless ways to leverage data, but this can make it challenging to integrate into business-as-usual (BAU) operations. In fast-paced environments, it’s often difficult to navigate the options, narrow down what’s truly needed, and manage the cultural impact of implementation before it’s even fully realised.
What I find most rewarding is being able to step in, focus on building strong foundations, and leave knowing that my work has had a positive and lasting impact on both the company and the business as a whole.
3. What does a typical day look like for you?
My day begins with a coffee and the sound of birdsong in the garden. I’m lucky to live in the countryside, so my mornings are peaceful. I take about 20 minutes to self-reflect and prepare for the day, especially the challenge of getting a teenage boy awake and motivated! 😄
After that, I check my emails, adjust my priority list, grab coffee number two, and dive into work. No two days are the same. Different client needs, unexpected blockers, and shifting resources can change the course of the day at any moment. It’s all about going with the flow and focusing on what you can influence or achieve amidst any changes.
4. Which of our company values resonate with you the most?
“Thrive in work”. Between the ages of 18 and 65, we spend almost 24% of our time at work. That’s just the physical aspect. Work impacts us beyond the office, influencing our finances and sometimes bringing stress or concerns into our personal lives.
That’s why it’s vital to enjoy what you do. Dufrain truly understands this by seeing the person behind the role. You can speak openly and honestly with anyone, regardless of grade, about anything, without fear of judgment or negative assumptions about your work ethic. They actively encourage self-development and have one of the most impressive wellness and employee support networks I’ve ever seen.
Thriving at work should be a basic expectation, yet many company policies drive a less human-first attitude, which is a difficult thing to balance when protecting business longevity. However, when employees thrive, it leads to more ideas, better work outputs, greater loyalty, and better retention.
5. Who inspires you the most within Dufrain?
If I had to pick just one, it would be Sean Kenny. His career at Dufrain is particularly impressive. Not just because of his swift rise into a senior role, but because of his exceptional leadership skills and dedication to fostering the growth of his colleagues. Sean is known for his unwavering commitment to supporting the development of those around him.
His approach to leadership and personal development has made him a respected and influential figure at Dufrain, and he’s someone I aspire to emulate.
6. Which work benefit or perk is your favourite and why?
Private health insurance is my favourite perk. It’s invaluable to have quicker access to GP appointments and more flexibility in my care. With shorter waiting times and fewer restrictions on tests, I was able to recover and return to work much quicker after a period of illness. While I’m deeply grateful for the NHS and the incredible work its staff do, this benefit provides additional support and peace of mind when it’s needed most.
7. What’s the best advice you can give to someone who wants to work for us?
Be proactive and embrace the company culture. At Dufrain, there’s a strong emphasis on collaboration, personal growth, and open communication. Don’t be afraid to put yourself forward, share your ideas, and seek out opportunities for learning and development.
It’s also important to build relationships across the company. Everyone here is approachable and willing to help, so take the time to connect with colleagues from different teams and levels.
Finally, stay adaptable and open to new challenges. The work here is dynamic and fast-paced, and those who thrive are those who can go with the flow and make the most of every opportunity.
8. What skill do you think everyone should learn?
Effective speaking and active listening are essential skills for anyone in any role. Tone and body language often convey more than the words themselves, making it crucial to communicate clearly and authentically.
Active listening, in particular, is different from simply hearing someone; it’s a skill that requires continuous practice and attention. Over time, the pressures of work and life can cause us to lose touch with this ability. I’ve experienced this myself recently, and I’m grateful for the flexibility and support Dufrain provides, which has allowed me to refresh and polish this vital skill.
9. What advice would you give to someone who would like to start speaking at more industry events?
Start by building your confidence and expertise in smaller, more familiar settings. Practice speaking at internal meetings, team briefings, or smaller local events before moving on to larger industry conferences. This helps you refine your message, improve delivery, and get comfortable with public speaking.
Networking is also key. Connect with other speakers, event organisers, and industry leaders. Attend events as a participant to observe different speaking styles and understand what resonates with audiences.
Always be authentic and passionate about your subject matter. When you speak about topics you truly care about, your enthusiasm will naturally engage the audience. And remember, each speaking opportunity is a chance to learn and improve, so embrace the process and refine your skills.
I’m a bit of a creative soul, so you’ll often find me in my craft corner. Whether quilting, knitting, or dabbling in painting, I love experimenting with different artistic techniques. Cooking is another passion of mine. I enjoy trying out new foods and experimenting with flavours. Baking is a particular favourite. I’ve got a signature strawberry lemonade cake with a subtle fizz, just like lemonade. It’s my secret weapon in the kitchen!
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