XBert co-founder named in first-of-its-kind Responsible Data Use Advisory Council

XBert's co-founder Aaron Wittman will be part of a first-of-its kind global advisory council, aimed at educating and empowering small business and responsible data use.

Xero, the global small business platform, this week announced the launch of the inaugural Responsible Data Use Advisory Council, comprised of experts and thought leaders across the globe.Aaron said he is honoured to be chosen as part of the inaugural Council."Responsible data use is something I am extremely passionate about; and educating small business owners on what that means is imperative as we move toward further digitisation. I'm really looking forward to working with the other business leaders and Xero to ensure a greater understanding of how data could or should be used responsibly, both for business owners and advisor alike."Founded to underscore Xero’s commitment to using data responsibly that underpins how Xero leverages the data in their small business platform to benefit small businesses and their advisors, the Council will also focus on filling a vital education gap that currently exists within the small business community around data sharing and responsible data use.Highlighting the need for greater understanding of how to use data responsibly, a recent survey* of global small business owners commissioned by Xero, found that less than one-quarter (17%) say they understand completely how their tech providers use their business’s data.In addition, more than one-third admit their own customers likely do not fully understand how their business is collecting and using their customer data. When asked to identify the benefits, if any, of sharing data with tech providers, the most popular answer (36%) was none. The most common concerns about sharing data were: data being sold/shared without permission, data being used in a way that makes them feel uncomfortable, data being stolen or data being used to sell more services/products.Kendra Vant, Executive General Manager, Data and Chair of the Xero Responsible Data Use Advisory Council, said the Council will play an instrumental role in helping small business owners understand the challenges and opportunities that come with sharing, managing and using data.

"I'm excited to see this group of industry leaders help small business owners formulate deeper understanding and best practices for their own businesses and empower them to be confident in managing data use responsibly with their own customers.”

Rachael Powell, Chief Customer Officer, Xero said we can’t underestimate the roles that data and digital technologies continue to play in helping small businesses survive during the pandemic.

"As we reach a new era of digital connection, it’s essential that companies channel their passion for innovation into setting responsible practices for and how data is utilised. At Xero, we’re committed to building products that leverage data responsibly and that also drive valuable insights for our customers enabling them to more effectively run their business. We also want to empower our customers to easily understand how their tech partners use their data.”

Over the next 12 months, the Council will facilitate an education program, featuring original content, resources and best practices featured on www.xero.com/data.The founding Council members include: