Spotlight on Matthew Riccio: Building a data-driven organization

Measurement, data, and analytics are a core focus at Spotnana, where Matthew Riccio leads our Data Science, Analytics, and Reporting team. 

As Director of Data Analytics, his primary role and responsibility is translating data into actionable insights that drive desired outcomes for internal stakeholders, partners, and customers.

Matthew discussed why he joined Spotnana, his passion for data and analytics, and how Spotnana’s core values have shaped his professional development.

Can you share your career journey before Spotnana?

“I spent the majority of my early career in academia at New York University and Columbia University in New York City. As a Henry M. MacCracken and National Science Foundation fellow, my MA, MPhil, and PhD research focused on human behavior change and the advanced statistical and measuremental methods required to track and monitor key outcomes over time.

“Ultimately, my passion for combining quantitative and qualitative measurement with recommendations for real-world change fueled my move into the private sector. In previous roles, I led teams of researchers, data scientists, and analysts that helped some of the world’s largest organizations achieve their goals.”

Why did you choose to come work at Spotnana?

“First and foremost, I was inspired by the people and their passion. A single conversation with our EVP of Sales Bill Tillman and our Founder Sarosh Waghmar convinced me that Spotnana was where I needed to be. 

“That drive, devotion, and spirit were infectious, and I knew that my fellow Spotters and I would thrive at this exciting company.”

What is it like to work on your team?

Director of Data Analytics Matthew Riccio

“My team and I are data dorks! We love measurement, numbers, and analytics – and we want others to love them too! We love helping others realize this passion through the work we do, our friendly and collaborative approach, and the impact we help drive.

“My team believes that data is only as good as it is 1) accurate, complete, and trustworthy; and 2) usable, in the sense that you can effectively communicate and act upon it. To that end, I always do my best to encourage strong communication and collaboration. It’s important to cultivate a shared understanding not only of what we want to achieve, but also what is involved in getting there. 

“I realize that not everyone shares my love for research, measurement, data, and analytics. I have always found that when you can help others see the positive impacts they can have in driving success, though, a willingness to embrace being truly data-driven soon follows.”

What is something specific that you’ve accomplished at Spotnana that you’re proud of?

“I am genuinely proud of helping Spotnana become a data-driven organization. My team and I have helped to create excitement around an area that is sometimes considered frightening or boring.”

How has Spotnana supported your professional development?

“Both personally and professionally, I am extremely aligned with Spotnana’s core values of Build the Future, Commit to Excellence, and Stronger Together. Each core value has positively impacted my development. 

“I have constantly been encouraged to push boundaries and innovate. The team at Spotnana consistently supports me whenever and however they can to make those dreams a reality. We often say ‘People build Spotnana,’ and the company’s dedication to support, collaboration, and connection has been instrumental in helping me grow and achieve my career goals.”

Can you share how in-person gatherings have shaped your Spotnana experience?

“I can honestly say that I have yet to find a place that compares to Spotnana with regards to our in-person events. From Dubai to Dublin and everywhere in between, Spotnana has helped me connect with people around the world in ways that—I truly believe—would not have otherwise been possible.

“The connections and friendships that I’ve been able to make in locations like Jaipur, Bangkok, London, New York City, and more have been amazing and genuinely life-changing. I will forever be grateful to Spotnana for making them possible.”

Why is travel important to you? Why work in the travel industry?

“When you enter our New York City office, you’ll immediately see the following statement: Travel is a human emotion. Put simply, I couldn’t agree more. To me, that emotion translates into love and learning. It fuels a deeper connection to others, their cultures, their environments, and so much more. 

“I firmly believe that travel is an invaluable and critical part of learning and expanding your worldview. To be able to help others do that helps keep me excited about my work every single day.”

What is your favorite thing about working at Spotnana?

“My Spotnana family! So many peers and teammates have become friends for life. Our shared commitment to and passion for the work we are doing make every day a pleasure.”

Fun Facts!

• What’s the best trip you ever took and why? Japan, across Hokkaido, Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and more. Additionally, across Scandinavia, including Sweden, Denmark and Norway. The combination of culture, people, and natural beauty are simply unparalleled. I don’t know that anything I will do in travel can compare to kayaking the fjords of Geiranger!
• What’s your favorite thing to do at the airport? I’m a voracious reader, so nine times out of ten, you’ll find me relaxing with a coffee and a book!
• Aisle, middle, or window seat? Always the aisle for me!
• What’s your go-to show to watch on a trip? A good book instead! ; )
• What’s the top destination on your bucket list? Converge, Spotnana’s global offsite, brought me to two: Chiang Mai and Bangkok, Thailand!