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

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 organizations around the world as they adopt cloud technology, build data maturity and innovate responsibly, even amid resource constraints and uncertainty. Her leadership stands out not just for its technical depth, but for its people-first approach. She speaks candidly about building strong teams, learning how to manage before she was ready and why coaching and trust matter more than control.