GreenBook 2022 Future List Spotlight: Dr. Clara Mundia

Editor’s Note: The following interview features a GreenBook Future List honoree, Dr. Clara Mundia. The GreenBook Future List recognizes leadership, professional growth, personal integrity, passion, and excellence in the next generation of consumer insights and marketing professionals within the first 10 years of their careers.

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Introducing Dr. Clara Mundia

Dr. Clara is the Location Analytics Director at Dalberg Research, where she drives evidence-based analysis to address research project objectives across development sectors. With over 15 years of experience in the application of geospatial analytics, Clara’s work focuses on implementing innovative analytics techniques and creative ways to use data to answer questions that align with a strong humanitarian mission. She is passionate about the power of data to inform and lead development in low and emerging countries, particularly in advancing strategies around gender equality, human rights, climate change, and environmental sustainability. Clara holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Resources and Policy and an M.S. in Geography and Environmental Sciences from Southern Illinois University.

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What’s a fun fact about yourself that would surprise people to know?

Most people see me in the technology space, but what I love to do and that gives me some creative release is Do-It-Yourself (DIY) projects like sewing, furniture restoration, and crafting.

 

If you could go back in time to when you first started your career, what advice would you give to your younger self?

Don’t take ‘No’ for an answer no matter how many times you cross it. Also – demand the things you need for growth, for they will never be handed to you.

 

What do you consider to be key characteristics or qualities of a leader? How does this play into market research?

Impact focus, strategic thinking, and empathy. Within market research, where we regularly work with sensitive groups and data and information, we must be clear with our research intentions. Understanding the impact we seek and being strategic towards not being invasive in our approach are critical to ensure the accuracy of our data and the credibility of our processes.

 

How did you get your start in insights? Did you know that this is what you wanted to do, or did you fall into it?

Unofficially, I have always been insights-focused in my academic research through the use of spatial data to uncover deeper trends, to phenomena to support decision making. Professionally, I started in the insights industry during my time at Dalberg, where I have been exposed to multiple fields and queries that have pushed my thinking and experience. It is truly where I find great satisfaction in the use of my skills.

 

What is something you’ve built or launched that you’re proud of?

I have built the Location Analytics (LOCAN) department at Dalberg Research. I’ve grown the team and its resources to a revenue-generating business line, and had the opportunity to build capacity among young GIS professionals.

 

What sets you apart from your peers? Is there a specific trait that you attribute much of your success to? (For example, resiliency, grit, capacity for risk, etc.)

I am quite outspoken and determined to ensure diversity (capacity and area) and skills acknowledgement, and I am keen to identify opportunities for growth.