Dentsu Aegis Network has opened its first ‘Global Data Innovation Centre’ in Singapore, to lead the development of “next generation technologies” and solve business challenges.

The centre, set up in partnership with the Singapore Economic Development Board, will serve as a hub for data scientists and technology talent for the entire global network. It will be staffed with 25 data experts.

Dentsu Aegis Network Asia Pacific chief executive Nick Waters said that Singapore had been selected over 145 other countries to host the centre: “Data is central to our business strategy and now all businesses require a strategy for the digital economy to remain relevant. [The centre] allows us to hone data literate talent that will lead to a competitive advantage for our clients.

“We are committed to being at the forefront of innovation and this initiative serves as an excellent opportunity to nurture great talent while providing clients with expertise to drive growth for their brands.”

Audrey Kuah, managing director of the Global Data Innovation Centre, added: “The fourth industrial revolution requires the augmentation of our human expertise with intelligent technology in order to achieve the next level of growth in our industry.

“As the world of data continues to grow exponentially in the advent of connected devices, IoT, industrialised digitisation of the economy and the way people move through digitised networks, Dentsu Aegis Network seeks to develop future forward products that will enable marketers to leapfrog competition, connect more powerfully with their audiences and ultimately to power their business,” she said.