The most in-demand trait for new data pro hires - passion by David Weldon via @infomgmt

What employers most need from analysts is enthusiasm for what the employee can do with data to drive business decisions and advance the corporate mission.

I find this article interesting but mostly as a way to encourage more discussion on skills needed.  I agree that "Passion" is needed, but you should have passion for your job otherwise I wonder why you are actually doing it.

You need to understand the data if you want to use it to make decisions about the business.  That could mean you need good Master Data Management,  You need some kind of business knowledge either through experience or Analysis.  There are so many other things that you need if you just sit down and think about it.