Data & AI Mastery

Start your data & AI transformation journey with Cambridge Spark. What does it take to prepare students—and their teachers—for a future shaped by AI? In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, host Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma sits down with Dr. Sue Sentance, Director of the Raspberry Pi Computing Education Research Centre at the University of Cambridge, to explore the evolving landscape of computing education.  From the importance of teaching AI literacy and programming skills, to the challenges of teacher development and interdisciplinary learning, Sue offers research-backed insights into what inclusive, future-ready education should look like.  They discuss the role of pedagogy like PRIMM, frameworks such as SEAME, and why critical thinking—not just technical know-how—is essential for navigating today’s digital world. Whether you're an educator, policymaker, or AI enthusiast, this conversation will leave you rethinking how we equip the next generation with the skills to engage with, critique, and shape AI technologies. Chapter Markers: (00:00) Start Your Journey into AI Mastery Kick off with Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma as he sets the stage for this episode's deep dive into computing education and AI literacy. (01:20) Discover Sue Sentance’s Path to Shaping Computing Education Explore Sue’s unique journey from AI PhD to classroom teacher to academic leader in computing pedagogy. (03:29) Unpack the Latest Research in AI and Programming Education Learn about Sue’s current work, including AI education, debugging, and longitudinal studies in physical computing. (04:43) Master the Skills You Need in the Age of AI Find out what essential skills students need today to thrive in an AI-driven world—and why confidence and critical thinking are key. (08:51) Learn Why We Must Teach AI—and How to Do It Effectively Sue explains why understanding AI isn't optional and offers insights on how we can teach it meaningfully in schools. (11:59) Break Down AI Literacy with Real-World Frameworks Get to grips with leading AI literacy models from UNESCO, OECD, and the EU—and their implications for education. (15:01) Get Actionable Advice for Parents Navigating AI and Tech Sue shares how parents can support their children in learning about AI—even without technical expertise. (17:23) Explore the Line Between Teaching with AI and Teaching About It Understand the difference and how educators can responsibly integrate AI tools into teaching practices. (21:26) Debate the Future: Should We Still Teach Programming? Sue tackles the hot topic of whether coding still matters in an age of generative AI—and what we risk if we stop. (24:08) Hear Personal Insights in a Rapid-Fire Q&A Find out Sue’s favourite programming language, subjects at school, and the music that fuels her work. (28:23) Wrap Up with Final Thoughts on Empowering Learners with AI Raoul reflects on key themes, from coding's long-term value to the role of education in fostering AI literacy. Useful Links: Enjoying the Show? If you enjoyed this conversation, help us spread the word: Rate & Review on Apple PodcastsVisit Cambridge Spark to explore programmes that future-proof your data & AI skillsConnect with Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma on LinkedInConnect with Sue Sentance on LinkedInExplore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com

Start your data & AI transformation journey with Cambridge Spark. In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma speaks with Matthew Cloke, Chief Technology Officer at Endava, about how one of the world’s leading technology companies is embracing AI at scale. Matt shares how Endava created an AI committee to set governance and strategy, built cross-functional champions networks and celebrated AI heroes to drive adoption, and invested in ChatGPT Enterprise across 8,000 employees, achieving 85–90% daily usage. The pair also dive into the business case for AI and how to secure executive buy-in and why creating "wake-up moments" for executives is critical. Whether you’re a senior leader shaping AI strategy or a professional curious about scaling adoption, this conversation is packed with actionable insights. Be sure to follow Data & AI Mastery wherever you listen to your podcasts to never miss an episode.  Chapter Markers: (03:45) Who owns the AI agenda? Inside Endava’s AI committee (10:30) The Champions Network & AI Heroes (15:20) Making the business case for ChatGPT Enterprise (25:30) “Wake up, crawl, walk, run”: driving executive aha moments (29:30) Balancing wait-and-see vs. first-mover advantage (32:40) Quickfire round: contrarian views, environment, favourite language & more (38:40) Closing reflections & key takeaways Useful Links: Connect with Matthew on LinkedIn Visit the Endava Website Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com

Learn more about Cambridge Spark and how we’re helping organisations upskill their workforce in Data & AI: https://cambridgespark.com In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma sits down with Tamar Yehoshua, Advisor and former President of Product & Technology at Glean, and former Chief Product Officer at Slack and VP at Google. Tamar brings decades of experience leading product and engineering teams at the most influential tech companies. Throughout this episode you will learn what AI literacy looks like in the boardroom today and why imagination, not just infrastructure, is the biggest barrier to AI transformation. You will also hear Tamar give us her take on the evolving role of AI agents in reshaping work across engineering, sales, and product and how the next generation of leaders can bridge the gap between incremental improvement and radical reimagination. You’ll also hear insights on how top companies are defining their AI metrics, the role of boards in demanding ROI from AI investments, and why the most successful leaders are those who remain authentic, transparent, and consistent. If you’re navigating AI transformation or leading teams through change, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. Chapter Markers: (03:45) Tamar's leadership principles (11:44) What metrics matter for AI? (16:28) Use cases and real-world AI agent examples (19:06) What is Glean and how does it work? (25:52) From incremental improvement to reimagination (28:54) Quickfire round: Lisp, math, musicals (29:36) Closing reflections & key takeaways Useful Links: Connect with Tamar on LinkedIn Visit the Glean Website Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com

Learn how Cambridge Spark can help your business transform with data and AI: https://cambridgespark.com In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, host Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma sits down with Daniel Hulme, Chief AI Officer at WPP, to explore a bold rethinking of artificial intelligence—beyond automation and into adaptive, evolving systems. Daniel shares how marketing is being reengineered through AI—dynamic segmentation, synthetic audiences, brand-safe content generation, and more—and how businesses must focus on frictions rather than blindly chasing trends. Drawing on decades of experience, he also reveals a powerful framework for AI defensibility built on data, talent, and leadership. This is a must-listen for executives, AI practitioners, and innovators eager to move past hype and into action. 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe and follow to catch more discussions with data & AI leaders who are transforming their industries. Chapter Markers: (05:50) The case for goal-directed adaptive systems (08:05) Why businesses chase tech hype instead of solving problems (12:34) Case study: Using AI to augment creativity at scale (15:07) Micro-moments & the future of personalised, timely marketing (17:00) Real-world transformation challenges (and how to overcome them) (19:05) What gives AI efforts defensibility in business (21:39) Biggest misconceptions business leaders have about AI (24:46) Daniel on staying ahead: predictions, neuromorphic AI, philosophy Useful Links: Connect with Daniel Hulme on LinkedIn Visit the WPP Website Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com

Learn how Cambridge Spark can help your business transform with data and AI: https://cambridgespark.com In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma is joined by James Garner, Head of AI & Data at Gleeds, a global construction consultancy. Together they explore how a traditionally conservative industry is embracing data and AI to drive innovation, improve forecasting, and revolutionise operations. James shares his remarkable journey from chartered quantity surveyor to leading Gleeds' AI and data initiatives. They discuss why domain expertise combined with data science is the new superpower — and why finding these "translators" is so hard. They also cover the importance of hackathons, experimentation, and failing fast to discover valuable AI use cases in construction. And finally they discuss why data quality matters — but isn't the blocker people think it is anymore — and why culture and continuous upskilling are the real keys to AI adoption. Whether you’re in construction, infrastructure, energy, or just keen to see how AI is reshaping even the most traditional sectors, this conversation is packed with practical insights and future-facing perspectives. 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe and follow to catch more discussions with data & AI leaders who are transforming their industries. Chapter Markers: (07:10) Data quality, domain expertise, and building that first model (10:22) Taking prototypes to production (11:28) GPT chatbots, LLMs, and the assist tool for industry knowledge (13:48) Why hackathons and safe sandboxing accelerate innovation (16:47) The near future: AI agents, robotics, and blockchain impact (21:30) Worries about industry readiness and losing control to big tech (22:57) Quickfire Round: contrarian views, magic wand problems & learning mindset Useful Links: Connect with James Garner on LinkedIn Visit the Gleeds Website Find out more about Project Flux here Subscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter & Podcast here  Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com

Transform your workforce with cutting-edge data & AI skills — visit cambridgespark.com to get started today. In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma sits down with Jeff Boudier, who leads Product and Growth at Hugging Face, the world’s leading open platform for AI builders. Throughout the episode, the pair explore how enterprises are turning to smaller, specialised open models to solve real business problems; the importance of maintaining control over your data; and how Hugging Face is helping enterprises bring AI safely into production. Whether you’re a CTO navigating how to deploy AI at scale or an engineer eager to sharpen your edge, this episode delivers powerful takeaways on using data & AI strategically — not just for experimentation, but for driving real ROI. Subscribe to Data & AI Mastery and never miss insights from global leaders pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with data. Chapter Markers: (05:50) Real-world ROI: Financial services & patent tech using smaller open models (08:50) When to adopt specialised vs. large models (10:50) The AI adoption curve & why general models aren’t one-size-fits-all (12:30) Protecting your data: governance, builder culture, and avoiding lock-in (14:30) How Hugging Face keeps up with the latest developments in AI (17:50) Supporting enterprises: from rogue IT to secure, compliant AI (21:30) Security, safe tensors & scanning models for vulnerabilities (24:40) Quick-fire round: Jeff’s favourite programming language, subjects & music genre Useful Links: Connect with Jeff Boudier on LinkedIn Visit the Hugging Face Website Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com

Want to unlock the full potential of data & AI across your organisation? Visit cambridgespark.com to explore how we help enterprises upskill their workforce with cutting-edge, industry-relevant training programmes that drive real business impact. In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, host Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma sits down with Sam Smith, VP of Global Data Privacy and Governance at Merlin Entertainments, to explore how privacy and governance are the unsung heroes powering innovation in data-driven businesses. Sam shares her fascinating career shift from solicitor to data leader and unpacks what it really means to build effective global data governance strategies. They discuss how to demonstrate ROI from data governance, the carrot vs. stick of compliance, and the practical challenges of AI regulation in a hyper-connected world. Whether you’re a privacy professional, business leader, or data practitioner, this episode offers real-world insights on embedding privacy by design, aligning legal and commercial goals, and why AI literacy is now a business-wide mandate—not just a legal issue. If you found this episode valuable, don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review. Chapter Markers: (02:00) Samantha’s journey: From law to data privacy (04:30) Why data governance is a hard sell—and how to frame ROI (08:30) Data governance as both insurance and innovation (10:30) Key terms explained: Ownership, stewardship, and privacy (14:00) The ethics and strategy behind collecting personal data (18:00) What happens when AI tools go too far? (25:00) Where AI and data governance teams should sit in your org (27:45) Quick-fire questions: Industry views, lifelong learning, and favorite tunes (29:30) Raoul’s reflections: Why AI literacy matters now more than ever Useful Links: Connect with Sam Smith on LinkedIn Visit the Merlin Entertainments Website Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com

Want to equip your workforce with the data and AI skills they need to drive real transformation? Cambridge Spark partners with global organisations to build high-impact, scalable training programmes that deliver measurable business outcomes. Learn more at cambridgespark.com. In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma speaks with Roxane Heaton, Managing Director of Digital Colleague Experience at Barclays, about what it means to design digital systems for real people—at scale. Roxane shares her unique journey across the public and private sectors, from the Cabinet Office to Macmillan and now at Barclays, and brings an unshakable focus on user-centered innovation. In a world obsessed with digital transformation, Roxane challenges conventional thinking by arguing that AI doesn’t replace thinking—it deepens it. Whether you're a digital leader, HR strategist, or AI practitioner, Roxane offers an inspiring and grounded vision for inclusive, impactful transformation. Tune in to discover how to unlock human potential through data-driven design. Chapter Markers: (05:46) How to Measure the Impact of Digital Tools (08:32) Using Passive vs Active Data in AI Design (10:47) Automation, Copilots & Rethinking Workflows (13:07) Why Upskilling Requires More Than Just Tools (16:33) The Role of Ethics and Data Governance (19:51) Storytelling as a Leadership Skill in the AI Era (20:21) Why Design Thinking is the Must-Have Mindset (26:01) Raoul’s Reflections Useful Links: Connect with Roxane Heaton on LinkedIn Visit the Barclays Website Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com

Curious about how you or your organisation can lead in the age of AI? Visit CambridgeSpark.com to explore cutting-edge training programmes and resources. To celebrate the six-month milestone of Data & AI Mastery, we flip the script! This time, host Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma steps into the hot seat, interviewed by Cambridge Spark's CTO, Kevin Lemagnen.  In this special anniversary episode, Raoul shares his personal journey—from coding on calculators in high school to founding Cambridge Spark and leading the conversation on data and AI transformation. Together, they also go on to reflect on the biggest takeaways from past guests and why lifelong learning is no longer optional. Plus, Raoul answers a rapid-fire round of personal and professional questions that offer a glimpse into the mind behind one of the industry's most forward-thinking educators. Whether you're aspiring to lead in tech or shaping strategy from the C-suite, this episode offers insights, inspiration, and practical wisdom. Chapter Markers: (05:00) From calculators to classrooms: Raoul’s early love for education (15:00) The ROI of AI: cost vs. customer delight (20:00) Bold prediction: The rise of agentic AI in education (23:00) Favorite guest moments: from NATO to Lloyds to Pearson (26:00) The future of work and why apprenticeships matter (27:30) Quickfire round: contrarian views, reading habits, Python love, and more Useful Links: Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Connect with Kevin Lemagnen on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com Functional Programming in Java by Raoul-Gabriel Urma: Amazon Link

Learn more about Cambridge Spark and how we’re helping organisations upskill their workforce in Data & AI: https://cambridgespark.com In this episode of the Data & AI Mastery podcast, host Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma, sits down with Apoorv Kashyap, Head of Artificial Intelligence at Santander UK.  They explore the transformative power of AI in financial services, including how to leverage advanced machine learning models to enhance customer experience, streamline operations, and drive business value.  Apoorv shares his insights on the challenges and opportunities of deploying AI at scale, the importance of ethical AI, and the future of AI-driven finance. Don't forget to subscribe for more insights from AI leaders and industry experts. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network. Chapter Markers: (02:15) Apoorv Kashyap’s Career Journey in AI (06:45) Building Scalable AI Solutions (12:30) Overcoming Data Challenges in Financial Services (18:50) The Importance of Ethical AI (24:15) Future Trends in AI and Financial Services (28:30) Closing Thoughts and Key Takeaways Useful Links: Connect with Apoorv Kashyap on LinkedIn Visit the Santander UK Website Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn

Learn more about Cambridge Spark and how we’re helping organisations upskill their workforce in Data & AI: https://cambridgespark.com In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma sits down with Dave Treat, Chief Technology Officer at Pearson, to explore how one of the world’s largest education companies is leveraging AI and data to deliver more personalised, accessible, and effective learning experiences. With deep insights into the evolution of digital learning, Dave shares how Pearson is integrating generative AI across its content creation, tutoring, and assessment capabilities—while ensuring responsible and ethical use of the technology. From AI-powered learning companions to scalable data infrastructure, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the digital transformation of education at scale. Whether you're in EdTech, data leadership, or AI strategy, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways for anyone building data-driven experiences at scale. Chapter Markers: (03:28) From capital markets to edtech: Dave’s tech journey (06:10) What digital transformation means in a global education company (08:45) Pearson’s strategy for integrating generative AI (11:52) Personalised tutoring and assessment using AI (15:34) Building a robust data infrastructure for AI at scale (18:27) Balancing innovation with regulation and responsible AI (21:10) Organisational design and AI governance (24:56) AI literacy and upskilling the workforce Useful Links: Connect with Dave on LinkedIn Learn more about Pearson via their website  Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn

Learn more about Cambridge Spark and how we’re helping organisations upskill their workforce in Data & AI: https://cambridgespark.com In this episode of the Data & AI Mastery podcast, Raoul sits down with James Utting, Chief Business Officer for the Emerging Technology Group at UBS, to explore what it means to build an AI-first culture in a global financial institution. James starts off by sharing his career journey—from graduate to senior leadership—highlighting the pivotal moments that shaped his expertise in AI strategy, digital transformation, and leadership. He then goes on to detail UBS’s AI-first culture initiative, explaining how the bank empowers employees to integrate AI into daily decision-making, fosters tailored AI education, and ensures governance for responsible AI use. If you're a data leader, AI practitioner, or business executive, this conversation offers valuable takeaways on how to successfully navigate AI adoption at scale. Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe, rate, and leave us a review! Chapter Markers: (01:45) James’ Career Journey & Key Inflection Points (06:31) Why UBS is Developing an AI-First Culture (10:12) Initiatives to Drive AI Adoption at Scale (15:38) The Role of Education & AI Champions in Transformation (20:12) How UBS Prioritises AI Initiatives & Investments (24:45) Quickfire Round: Leadership, Learning & AI for Good (27:16) Closing Thoughts & Key Takeaways Useful Links: Connect with James Utting on LinkedIn Learn more about UBS’s AI initiatives on the UBS Website Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn

Learn more about Cambridge Spark and how we’re helping organisations upskill their workforce in Data & AI: https://cambridgespark.com In this special compilation episode of the Data & AI Mastery podcast, we take you inside an exclusive executive education event hosted by Lloyds Banking Group and Cambridge Spark at the Cambridge Judge Business School.  Over the course of the event, Lloyds’ senior AI leaders shared invaluable insights on scaling AI adoption, building AI literacy across leadership, and embedding AI into the very fabric of the organisation. Join host Raoul as he sits down with Trystan Davies, Group Head of Data Science, Ranil Boteju, Chief Data and Analytics Officer, Rohit Dhawan, Group Head of AI and Josh Cunningham, Group Head of Data & AI Culture. Together, they discuss why AI is not just a technology shift but a fundamental business transformation.  Throughout the episode we learn why leadership buy-in is critical for AI success, how Lloyds is reimagining banking through AI-powered experiences, the role of AI in upskilling employees and accelerating innovation and strategies for embedding AI across all levels of an organisation. If you’re looking to stay ahead in the AI revolution, this is an episode you won’t want to miss! Chapter Markers: (02:16) AI as a Transformational Capability in Banking (04:19) The Role of Leadership in AI Adoption (07:41) AI’s Impact on Customer Experience & Operations (10:38) Lloyds’ AI Training Program for Business Leaders (13:39) Cultivating AI Skills & Measuring Success (17:51) What’s Next for AI at Lloyds Banking Group (20:52) Closing Reflections & Key Takeaways Useful Links: Visit the Cambridge Spark Website Follow Lloyds Banking Group on LinkedIn Connect with Raoul on LinkedIn Find Ranil Boteju on LinkedIn Join Trystan Davies on LinkedIn Discover more from Rohit Dhawan on LinkedIn Engage with Josh Cunningham on LinkedIn

Learn more about Cambridge Spark and how we’re helping organisations upskill their workforce in Data & AI: https://cambridgespark.com In this episode of the Data & AI Mastery podcast, Raoul sits down with Manfred Boudreaux-Dehmer, the first-ever CIO of NATO, to explore how AI is shaping cybersecurity, digital transformation, and operational efficiency in one of the world's most complex organisations. Manfred shares insights on how NATO is adopting AI to enhance translation services, improve cybersecurity, and streamline enterprise operations. He also discusses the role of hackathons in fostering innovation, the importance of upskilling employees in AI, and the challenges of ensuring responsible AI adoption within a multinational defense alliance. This conversation is packed with valuable lessons for business leaders, technologists, and AI enthusiasts alike. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, follow, and leave a review to help others discover the show! Chapter Markers: (00:00) Introduction to Manfred Boudreaux-Dehmer (02:00) The role of a CIO at NATO (05:30) AI adoption at NATO: Opportunities & risks (08:50) Identifying AI use cases in a complex organisation (14:00) Measuring AI’s impact: Productivity vs. ROI (17:00) How hackathons are accelerating AI adoption at NATO (20:30) Exciting trends and concerns in AI (24:00) Quick-fire questions: Leadership, technology, and music preferences (28:30) Raoul’s reflections and takeaways Useful Links: Connect with Manfred Boudreaux-Dehmer on LinkedIn Follow Raoul-Gabriel Urma on LinkedIn Learn more about Cambridge Spark: cambridgespark.com

Learn more about Cambridge Spark and how we’re helping organisations upskill their workforce in Data & AI: https://cambridgespark.com Welcome to Data & AI Mastery, the podcast that brings you expert insights into how data and AI are transforming industries.  In this episode, Raoul sits down with Richard Masters, VP of Data and AI at Virgin Atlantic, to explore how the airline leverages AI and data-driven strategies to enhance operations, optimise pricing, and deliver premium customer experiences. The pair also go on to discuss why data & AI are critical for airline success, the build vs. buy dilemma in AI solutions, and the importance of a product mindset in AI adoption. Subscribe to Data & AI Mastery to never miss an episode! If you enjoyed today’s discussion, leave us a rating and review. Thanks for listening—stay ahead, stay inspired, and stay masterful! Chapter Markers: (02:30) Why data and AI are crucial for airlines  (07:20) The squad model: How data teams operate at Virgin Atlantic  (13:47) Build vs. buy: How to decide on AI solutions  (18:07) What Gen AI means for Virgin Atlantic  (21:05) Responsible AI: The importance of ethical and safe AI implementation  (24:21) Experimentation vs. long-term AI strategy  (28:13) Quick-fire round: Richard’s industry insights and personal favorites  (30:24) Final thoughts and key takeaways Useful Links:  Learn more about Cambridge Spark: cambridgespark.com  Connect with Richard Masters on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/richard-masters Follow Raoul Gabriel Urma on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/raoulurma Explore AI & Data Apprenticeships: cambridgespark.com/apprenticeships

Learn more about Cambridge Spark and how we’re helping organisations upskill their workforce in Data & AI: https://cambridgespark.com In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, host Raoul sits down with Prof. Alastair Beresford, Head of the Computer Science Department at the University of Cambridge, to discuss how AI is transforming education. They explore the benefits and challenges of AI-generated feedback for students, the future of coding in an AI-assisted world, and the critical skills learners need to succeed in the next decade. Prof. Alastair shares insights on the ICAP framework for measuring student engagement, the importance of asking the right questions, and the balance between teaching fundamentals vs. relying on automation. The conversation also touches on how universities can adapt assessments to ensure students truly understand the material, rather than just accepting AI-generated answers at face value. If you're interested in how AI is shaping the future of learning and work, this episode is a must-listen! Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe and follow to never miss an episode, and be sure to leave a rating and review to help others discover the show! Chapter Markers (00:00) Guest introduction: Prof. Alastair Beresford, University of Cambridge (03:30) How AI helps students learn faster with personalised feedback (14:45) The Downsides & Challenges of AI in Learning (16:57) The Future of Coding in an AI World (18:00) The Calculator Analogy: Learning vs. Automation (22:00) Why “asking the right question” is a critical skill in an AI-driven world (24:00) AI & The Future of Education (28:00) Quick Fire Questions (30:00) Raoul’s Reflections Useful Links Connect with Prof. Alastair’s on LinkedIn Find out more about GitHub Copilot: AI-assisted coding Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com

Learn more about Cambridge Spark and how we’re helping organisations upskill their workforce in Data & AI: https://cambridgespark.com Data & AI are reshaping industries, but how do organisations like Zurich Insurance stay ahead in this fast-evolving landscape?  In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, Raoul welcomes Alex Sidgreaves, Chief Data Officer at Zurich, to share her insights on leading a data-first transformation in one of the world’s largest insurers. Alex delves into the multifaceted role of a CDO, which has evolved from a technical focus to a strategic one centered on delivering measurable business impact. She explains how Zurich leverages generative AI and automation to address employee pain points, improve customer experiences, and drive operational efficiencies. Alex also shares practical advice on engaging stakeholders, identifying impactful use cases, and the need to stay curious and connected in a rapidly evolving field. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or an aspiring data leader, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you harness the power of data and AI in your organisation. Chapter Markers: (00:40) Introduction: About Alex Sidgreaves and her role at Zurich Insurance (02:00) The evolution of the CDO role from technical to strategic (06:15) Generative AI: Hype versus reality in the insurance sector (08:30) Targeted use cases and practical applications for generative AI (13:10) Driving adoption by solving real pain points (16:35) Preparing for the future of work: Skills, culture, and adaptability (19:10) Challenges with data privacy, regulation, and trust (20:30) Why collaboration and communication between data and business teams are essential (23:08) Rapid-fire questions Useful Links: Connect with Alex Sidgreaves on LinkedIn Visit the Zurich Insurance Website Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com

Learn more about Cambridge Spark and how we’re helping organisations upskill their workforce in Data & AI: https://cambridgespark.com Data is not a technology concern—it’s a business concern that can drive real impact. This week on Data & AI Mastery, we’re joined by Cassandra Vukorep, Chief Data Officer at Lloyd's, who’s all about making data work for the bigger business picture.  In this episode, she explores why data should be at the heart of your business strategy, not just another tech project. She and Raoul have a fantastic conversation about how Lloyd’s is using data to make a meaningful impact, aligning data initiatives with business goals to unlock real value. One major takeaway from Cassandra’s impressive career and experience as a CDO is that you should start with the corporate strategy rather than the data strategy. As she reminds us, the data supports the bigger vision, not the other way around. Cassandra also talks about the importance of building a culture of data literacy within your team so that everyone’s on the same page and ready to innovate.  Plus, she’s got a lot of great tips on running data projects in manageable sprints and getting buy-in from key stakeholders. So, if you’re looking to turn your data into a truly powerful asset in your business, Cassandra’s insights in this episode will help you drive the change needed to make it happen. Chapter Markers: (01:27) Introduction to Cassandra’s career trajectory, industry transitions, and key milestones (02:52) Exploring the evolving nature of the CDO role and driving value through data (05:04) Running data projects as business initiatives and aligning them with goals (09:21) Navigating ROI challenges and opportunities in data leadership (11:33) The essential role of data literacy in empowering businesses to innovate and adapt (15:26) The key steps for launching a successful data literacy initiative within an organisation (19:10) Addressing the challenges of stakeholder management at Lloyd’s (22:30) Quickfire round questions (25:24) Key takeaways Useful Links: Connect with Cassandra Vukorep on LinkedIn Visit the Lloyd's Website Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com

Learn more about Cambridge Spark and how we’re helping organisations upskill their workforce in Data & AI: https://cambridgespark.com Data is all around us, and when used effectively, it holds the power to transform lives and drive positive change in society. This week, we’re thrilled to welcome Fiona James, Chief Data Officer (CDO) at the Office for National Statistics (ONS), onto the Data & AI Mastery podcast. Alongside our host, Raoul, Fiona discusses how her team is harnessing data for the public good and leading the way in the public sector. In this episode, Fiona shares an inside look into her role as CDO, where she oversees the data that powers the UK's most important statistics. She explores how her team is using AI, specifically through the ClassifAI project, to improve data quality and make business operations more efficient. She and Raoul also dive into the ONS’s commitment to transparency and collaboration, as Fiona explains why they decided to make the AI project open-source. By doing so, they’ve opened the door for other national statistics offices worldwide to learn, collaborate, and advance data-driven solutions globally. One big takeaway from Fiona is the importance of building strong data foundations. She makes it clear that investing in the right infrastructure and having the right people in place is crucial for getting the most out of data and AI. So, if you’re interested in learning more about bringing data to life, this episode of Data & AI Mastery is a must-listen.  Tune in to hear how innovation in data and AI is making waves in the public sector and how ONS is leading the way. Chapter Markers: (01:41) Introducing Fiona James and her role as Chief Data Officer at the ONS  (03:17) Reflecting on the most fulfilling aspects of being a CDO at the ONS (04:56) Breaking down a typical week as CDO [06:42] Discussing the critical components of her role and emphasising the importance of leadership (08:24) Exploring AI innovation at the ONS (13:37) Making data accessible and transparent  (15:27) Expanding AI applications and global collaboration (17:44) Balancing innovation and strategy (20:53) Demonstrating data impact and educating the public (24:10) Tips for staying up to date as a senior leader in the data industry (25:36) Rapid-fire questions (28:07) Key takeaways Useful Links: Connect with Fiona James on LinkedIn ClassifAI project Find out more about Bringing data to life Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com

Learn more about Cambridge Spark and how we’re helping organisations upskill their workforce in Data & AI: https://cambridgespark.com Generative AI is no longer just an exclusive tool for big organisations. Thanks to the emergence of ChatGPT, AI is now levelling the playing field and making these once-exclusive resources available to all. This week on Data & AI Mastery, we’re joined by Maaike Van Den Branden, Chief Data Officer (CDO) at Mumsnet, to discuss how data can influence a small organisation.  As the CDO at Mumsnet, the UK’s largest parenting forum with over 9 million monthly visitors, Maaike leads the data team that transforms user conversations into valuable insights for brands. One of her key achievements is developing MumsGPT, an AI-powered qualitative research tool. In conversation with our host, Raoul, she shares a fresh perspective on the real value that AI brings to businesses of all sizes. Maaike walks us through her journey to becoming a CDO and explores the pivotal skills needed to thrive in data analytics.  She also discusses the evolving nature of data leadership, the blurred lines of ownership, and why collaboration across teams is crucial for success. Maaike and Raoul explore how Mumsnet uses generative AI to transform data analysis and create actionable insights. They talk about how AI helps drive ROI and strengthen brand partnerships, emphasising the importance of team collaboration and alignment for business success. As she wisely points out, everyone in an organisation is responsible for data quality—and that’s the ultimate secret to making data work for you, even as a small business. Expect this and more practical advice on leveraging AI tools to create real impact and value in this Data & AI Mastery episode. So, tune in now and join the conversation! Chapter Markers: (01:54) Exploring the pivotal skills needed for career growth from a technical individual contributor to a leadership role in data (04:07) Unpacking the realities and misconceptions of the Chief Data Officer (CDO) role (08:28) Understanding how Mumsnet adopted generative AI like ChatGPT to revolutionise data analysis and create actionable insights (14:02) Leveraging AI to extract valuable data insights and drive business ROI (18:34) The importance of collaboration and critical thinking within data teams to align with business goals (23:35) Navigating data trends and focusing on practical value (25:21) Tips for staying up to date as a leader (27:43) Key takeaways Links Connect with Maaike on LinkedIn Visit Mumsnet Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com