What it means to lead with humanity in a data-driven world

About this episode

Hilary Noon discusses leading with humanity in a technology-driven world, emphasizing the importance of data and analytics in the nonprofit sector.

In this episode of “RKD Group: Thinkers,” we sit down with Hilary Noon, global head of strategy, engagement and growth at AWS Nonprofits, to explore what it means to lead at the intersection of humanity and technology. With more than 25 years of experience spanning nonprofits, agencies and Big Tech, Hilary has navigated three very different “planets”—each with its own culture, constraints and opportunities. Yet throughout her career, one thread has remained constant: a deep belief that data, technology and analytics can, and should, be leveraged to amplify good. Hilary’s path into the sector wasn’t a straight line. Raised in a family grounded in service and community, she gravitated toward work that carried meaning and impact. Early roles at institutions like the Smithsonian and the American Cancer Society allowed her to explore the business side of nonprofit work, applying commercially oriented skills to mission-driven organizations. From there, her journey expanded into agency leadership and, ultimately into AWS, where she now helps thousands of nonprofits navigate rapid technological change. Today, Hilary leads strategy and growth for AWS Nonprofits, partnering with…

People in this episode

Guest: Hilary Noon

Topics covered

• leadership
• humanity
• technology
• nonprofits
• data-driven decision making

Keywords

• leadership
• humanity
• technology
• nonprofits
• data
• analytics
• cloud technology

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: AWS Nonprofits, Smithsonian, American Cancer Society

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