Joel Shapiro

Kellogg Professor | Chief Analytics Officer

Joel Shapiro is a leading expert in data analytics, AI, and strategic decision-making. As a Fractional Analytics Officer and advisor, he helps organizations leverage data to drive strategic insights, optimize decision-making, and achieve measurable results. Joel specializes in transforming data into actionable strategies and guiding companies through AI adoption and advanced analytics to enhance performance and growth.

With deep experience in building analytics capabilities, Joel works with diverse industries to strengthen their data functions and solve complex challenges. Through his strategic consulting in business analytics, he helps organizations improve their performance and decision-making through data-driven strategies.

A recognized thought leader, Joel conducts research on AI and data-driven decision-making, contributing to top publications and industry discussions. As a Clinical Associate Professor at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, he also teaches executives and professionals how to harness data for competitive advantage, ensuring they have the tools and strategies needed for success.

Joel’s blend of academic insight and practical expertise makes him a valuable partner for organizations looking to maximize their data potential.

Industry & Sector Expertise

  • AI Readiness

  • Data Analytics

  • Data-Driven Marketing, Sales, and Revenue Cycle

  • Financial Services

  • Technology

Education

PhD
Pardee RAND Graduate School

JD
Northwestern Pritzker School of Law

BS, Physics
University of Michigan

Professional Experience

Fractional Analytics Officer & Advisor for Select Clients
Present | Remote

Joel helps organizations leverage data, AI, and analytics to drive strategic decision-making, build analytic capacity, and achieve measurable business outcomes. His expertise includes:

  • Driving Data-Driven Strategies and AI Adoption

    • Helps organizations transform data into actionable insights and adopt AI and advanced analytics to enhance decision-making, optimize performance, and achieve growth.

  • Building and Enhancing Analytic Capabilities

    • Works with diverse industries to develop and strengthen their analytics functions, enabling effective data use for solving complex problems and identifying growth opportunities.

  • Strategic Business Consulting

    • Provides expert guidance to enhance commercial outcomes (e.g., pricing strategies, customer engagement) and operational performance (e.g., employee development, team dynamics). This experience includes working with diverse clients, from enterprises to professional sports teams, to implement data-driven strategies that elevate performance.

  • Leading Research and Thought Leadership in Data and AI

    • Conducts research on AI and data-driven decision-making, shares insights in top business publications, and influences industry practices through speaking engagements.

  • Delivering Expert Training and Customized Solutions

    • Teaches professionals how to leverage data analytics and tailors analytics solutions to clients' specific needs, ensuring they have the strategies and tools for success.

Clinical Associate Professor, Managerial Economics and Decision Sciences | Northwestern University - Kellogg School of Management
2014 - Present

Chief Analytics OfficerChief Analytics Officer | Varicent
2020 - 2024

Associate Dean of Academics, School of Continuing Studies | Northwestern University
2010 - 2015

Assistant Dean of Graduate Programs, School of Continuing Studies | Northwestern University
2007 - 2010

Senior Researcher | Rockman Et Al
2003 - 2007

Doctoral Fellow | RAND Corporation
1999 - 2003