Rafael Maestu

Economist and Chief Data Scientist - CA State Water Resources Control Board

Rafael (Rafa) Maestu is an Economist and Chief Data Scientist with the Office of Information Management and Analysis at the State Water Resources Control Board. Prior to Joining the Water Board in 1999, he worked for the Spanish Ministry of Environment and for the European Union. Rafa is a data liberator and believes that information-based management and science-based decisions require the right data, in the right format at the right time. Transparency in data and information also improves the efficiency and effectiveness of government organizations and holds agencies accountable for their results. His career emphasis has focused on water management and water markets. His experience includes economic analysis, program evaluation, statistical analysis, water management, water conservation, organizational performance management, environmental indicators, performance reporting, strategic planning and information systems development. He holds a B.S. in Economics and a M.S. in Environmental Economics from the University of Madrid (Spain), he also holds a M.S. in Finance from the University of London, an M.A. in Environmental Management from the University of London and M.S. in Environmental Studies from the University of Southern California.