Builders by Proxify

In this episode of Builders, Lee Haynes speaks with Alexandre Paternoster, at the time of filming this episode the Senior Manager in the Digital Strategy Group at KPMG Netherlands, and currently the Data & AI Platform Lead in the Data & Analytics department at Van Oord. They discuss the evolution of AI as a continuation of digital transformation rather than a revolution, the importance of listening and understanding stakeholder challenges in digital strategy, and the role of culture in successful transformations. Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Digital Transformation and AI(00:57) Alexander's Journey into Digital Strategy(02:50) Day-to-Day in Digital Strategy(04:25) Leadership Lessons in Digital Transformation(05:53) Common Roadblocks in Digital Transformation(07:50) Driving Clarity and Velocity in Organizations(09:15) The Role of Culture in Digital Transformation(10:43) Building Effective Teams for Transformation(13:23) Essential Skills for Transformation Roles(15:27) AI: Evolution vs. Revolution(16:47) Guiding Companies in AI Adoption(18:50) Real-World Examples of AI Impact(20:11) Understanding AI Hype and Misinterpretation(21:48) Human-Centered AI Approach(23:50) AI in Decision-Making Processes(25:31) The Future of AI Workflows(27:20) Balancing Innovation and Risk in AI(29:02) AI Maturity Across Organizations(31:44) Generational Differences in AI Adoption(33:29) Exciting Developments in AI Tools(35:37) The Future of Human Interaction in Digital Organizations(39:30) Current Projects and Future Aspirations(40:57) Closing Thoughts on Digital Transformation

In this episode of Builders, host Lee Haynes speaks with Oliver Spragg, former CTO of Plan A, about his journey in technology leadership and the importance of sustainability in tech. They discuss the challenges of building data-driven solutions for climate action, the definition of high-performing teams, and the role of diversity in enhancing team performance. Oliver shares insights on effective estimation processes in remote teams and the impact of AI on productivity tracking. The conversation concludes with Oliver’s aspirations for the future and the evolving trends in technology and sustainability.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Tech Leadership and Sustainability(02:46) Oliver’s Journey in Technology and Sustainability(06:01) Building Tech for Climate Action(08:32) Data Infrastructure Challenges in Sustainability(11:46) Advice for Purpose-Driven Tech Companies(14:37) Defining High-Performing Teams(17:55) Balancing Individual and Team Metrics(20:47) Lessons Learned in Performance Frameworks(25:15) Measuring Deployment Metrics and Goals(27:02) AI’s Impact on Performance Measurement(29:27) Utilizing AI for Developer Experience Insights(31:55) The Role of AI in Code Quality and Team Dynamics(35:51) Diversity’s Influence on Team Performance(36:44) Effective Estimation Techniques in Agile Teams(40:43) Remote Work Dynamics and Team Collaboration(42:50) Future Aspirations and Climate Impact(46:57) Emerging Technology Trends and AI’s Future

In this conversation, Cecilia Borg, Interim VP of Tech Ops at Viaplay, joins Lee Haynes to discuss the essential qualities she looks for when hiring developers, emphasizing the importance of being a team player, transparent communication, and engagement in a remote work environment. She highlights the need for developers to actively participate in team dynamics and to express their feelings and contributions openly.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Cecilia Borg and Her Journey(03:03) The Role of an Interim Tech Leader(05:59) Balancing Stability and Change in Organizations(08:56) The Growing Demand for Interim Executives(11:58) Wearing Multiple Hats: Adapting to Different Roles(14:59) Leadership Values and Approaches(18:03) Evaluating Organizational Health(21:05) Prioritizing Change in High-Stakes Environments(24:02) Dealing with Resistance to Change(26:10) Challenges in Hiring Engineers for Hybrid Teams(29:32) The Importance of Behavioral Traits in Developers(31:56) Building Connected Hybrid Teams(36:15) Core Responsibilities of Modern Engineering Managers(40:23) Supporting Engineering Managers Effectively(41:56) Transitioning from Developer to Manager(45:56) Common Mistakes in Engineering Leadership(48:13) The Future of AI in Team Leadership(50:43) Simplifying Communication Between Engineers and Management

In this episode of Builders, host Lee Haynes sits down with Gilles Backhus, Co-founder and VP of Product at Tensordyne, to discuss the future of AI hardware, energy-efficient computation, and what it takes to scale a global deep-tech startup.Gilles shares how Tensordyne is rethinking chip design through logarithmic math to cut power consumption, why the next wave of AI innovation won’t come from bigger models but smarter architectures, and how culture and hiring shape deep-tech success.If you’re interested in AI chips, autonomous systems, data center innovation, or building teams that last, this conversation goes deep into what’s coming next for AI hardware, inference efficiency, and sustainable compute.(00:00) Intro: Meet Gilles Backhus, Co-founder of Tensordyne(01:00) From electrical engineering to AI hardware innovation(02:00) The idea behind Tensordyne and its mission(03:45) How Tensordyne logarithmic math cuts power use(06:00) The real story behind AI’s carbon footprint(08:30) Power, scale, and sustainability in AI computing(09:40) Building Tensordyne across the US and Germany(10:45) Inside Tensordyne engineering culture and low attrition(13:30) Partnering with Juniper Networks and networking breakthroughs(14:50) What Tensordyne looks for when hiring engineers(19:00) Balancing global teams and cultural differences(22:30) From VP of AI to VP of Product: Gilles’ leadership shift(27:00) Staying ahead in a fast-moving AI hardware market(30:00) From autonomous driving to data centers: Tensordyne's focus today(32:00) The next 5–10 years in AI innovation(36:50) The evolution of AI chip specialization(45:00) The rise of edge computing and analog AI(47:00) Startup lessons and emotional resilience(52:00) Closing thoughts and key takeaways

In this episode, Marija Nakevska, Chief Product and Technology Officer at Worldline, shares her journey from engineering to executive leadership. She discusses the importance of a holistic product profile, the challenges of building scalable products for global markets, and the significance of leadership during rapid growth.(00:00) Marija Nakevska’s Journey: From Engineer to Executive(02:54) The Importance of a Holistic Product Profile(05:58) Building Scalable Products for Global Markets(09:03) Leadership in Rapid Growth Environments(11:56) Recruiting for High-Performing Product Teams(15:00) Design Thinking in Diverse Market Segments(17:59) The Complexities of the Payments Industry(21:03) Transitioning from Project-Based to Product-Based Teams(26:57) Shifting Success Metrics in Product Management(28:50) Leading Globally Distributed Teams(32:33) Maintaining Alignment and Culture in Remote Work(34:03) Balancing Autonomy and Team Dependencies(36:48) Navigating Meeting Overload in Large Organizations(38:15) The Future of Work and AI in Tech(41:30) Women in Tech: Challenges and Opportunities(47:05) Exciting Trends in Product Management and Payments

In this episode of Builders, Lee Haynes speaks with Bryan DeNosky, a Senior Software Engineer at Mojang Studios, about his journey in software engineering, leadership philosophy, the impact of AI on development, and the future of junior developers. Brian shares insights on hiring practices, team dynamics, and the importance of fostering a reliable engineering culture, especially in a global community like Minecraft. He emphasizes the need for adaptability in the face of rapid technological advancements and the evolving role of AI in the engineering workflow.Chapters(00:00) Journey to Software Engineering(02:46)⁠ Intersection of Gaming and Engineering(05:40)⁠ Leadership Philosophy in Software Development(09:38)⁠ Engineering for Minecraft's Community(12:25)⁠ Hiring for Creative Environments(15:58)⁠ Adapting to AI in Development(19:35)⁠ Harnessing AI for Enhanced Productivity(25:41)⁠ Navigating Innovation Culture: US vs Europe(30:00)⁠ The Future of Junior Developers in an AI World(35:01)⁠ Building Complex Systems: A Holistic Approach

Discover insights from our talk with Carrie Carrasco, Director of Hybrid Cloud Platform at Red Hat, as she explores hybrid cloud evolution, platform engineering success, AI in operations, and leadership growth in tech.Chapters(00:00) Carrie Carrasco's Unique Tech Journey(11:29) The Evolution of Open Hybrid Cloud Platforms(21:47) Measuring Success in Platform Engineering(24:46) The Role of Leadership in Platform Teams(28:23) The Influence of Others(29:15) Mentoring Engineers Beyond Coding(31:37) The Importance of Communication in Teams(34:36) Hiring for Emotional Intelligence(36:32) AI's Impact on Technical Roles(37:40) Building Trust in AI and Automation(40:24) Open Source Trends and Innovations(45:06) The Role of Trust in AI Development(47:55) Exciting Developments in Cloud Technology(50:46) Supporting Leadership Growth in Technical Roles(54:02) Staying Curious in a Rapidly Evolving Tech Landscape

In this episode of Builders, host Lee Haynes speaks with Caner Kilinc, Data & AI Expert at Future Key, about turning AI from theory into real-world business impact. They discuss the challenges of implementing AI, building a data-informed culture, and navigating the ethical considerations of AI development. Caner also shares perspectives on hiring practices, the role of collaboration, and how AI will shape the future of business decision-making.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to AI and Data Science Journey(02:32) Bridging the Gap Between AI Insights and Execution(05:56) The Role of AI in Business Decision Making(08:29) Challenges in AI Implementation and Team Dynamics(11:30)Fostering a Data-Informed Culture(14:44) Hiring and Scaling Challenges in AI(17:23) The Future of AI: Trends and Ethical Considerations(20:11) Conclusion and Future Directions

In this episode of Builders, host Lee Haynes speaks with Ali Farha, Senior Technical Producer at Star Stable, about his career journey and lessons from the gaming industry. Ali shares how he combines technical expertise, creativity, and leadership to build engaging player experiences while balancing production deadlines.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Ali Farha and Star Stable(01:21) Ali's Journey into Tech and Gaming(03:58) Defining Moments in Career Transition(07:49) Breaking into the Gaming Industry(12:18) Role of a Senior Technical Producer(17:14) Balancing Production and Player Experience(24:45) Transitioning to Leadership in Tech(29:31) Creating Psychological Safety in Tech Teams(30:59) Understanding Team Dynamics and Inclusivity(33:46) Hiring Challenges in the Tech Industry(37:07) Building a Personal Brand on LinkedIn(37:37) The Importance of Continuous Learning(41:29) Staying Relevant in a Rapidly Evolving Industry(45:49) Engaging and Retaining Talent in Tech(49:26) Fostering Creativity in Teams(52:39) Misconceptions About Working in Gaming(56:27) Advice for Future Leaders

In this episode of Builders, host Lee Haynes sits down with Anastasia Varava, Research Lead at SEB, to explore how technology and banking intersect. Anastasia shares her journey from academia to applied research, the pioneering role of SEBx in driving innovation within a highly regulated industry, and the challenges of implementing new technologies in banking. The conversation dives into the importance of bridging technical and non-technical teams, the future of AI in financial services, and strategies for attracting top tech talent to mission-driven organizations.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Innovation in Banking(00:56) Anastasia's Journey into Research and Innovation(03:22) The Role of SEBX in Financial Innovation(05:46) From Research to Real-World Impact(10:50) Challenges in Banking Innovation(13:49) Collaboration Between Technical and Non-Technical Teams(15:26) Hiring for Applied Research Teams(20:24) The Future of Banking Technologies(25:00) Responsible AI Adoption in Banking(30:53) Overhyped and Underappreciated AI Areas(36:16) Leadership in Innovation(42:01) Attracting Talent in Tech and Research

Join Builders as Jacopo Himberg, Director of Data at Wolt, shares his unique journey from in leading Wolt’s data operations. Discover how he built a strong data culture, scaled Wolt’s data infrastructure, and enabled self-service data access for teams. Packed with insights for data and tech leaders, this episode offers actionable advice on fostering innovation, embracing a startup mindset, and driving growth in fast-moving organizations.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Jacopo Himberg and Volt(01:01) Jakcopo's Career Journey and Transition to Data(06:00) Early Days at Wolt and Company Culture(08:22) Building Data Infrastructure at Wolt(15:00) Evolving Data Strategy and Governance(18:15) Self-Service Data Access and User Empowerment(22:45) Trends in Data Platforms and Tooling Choices(28:21) Data Certainty and Organizational Trust(29:43) Challenges of Scaling Data Models(32:28) Navigating Data Set Familiarity(34:00) The Role of Automation and AI in Data Ecosystems(40:22) Enhancing Knowledge Management with AI(42:25) Challenges in Hiring Data Engineers(45:54) Assessing Beyond Technical Skills in Hiring(48:18) Maintaining a Startup Mindset in a Growing Organization(52:00) Advice for Building and Scaling Data Teams(54:42) The Future of Data and Business Decision-Making

Kristina Prilepchanska, Head of Procurement Solutions, IT & Digital at Electrolux, shares her journey from engineering to leading digital transformation in procurement. She discusses system integration, stakeholder management, and hiring for potential, while exploring how AI, sustainability, and innovation are shaping the future of procurement technology.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Procurement and IT Integration(03:54) The Role of Procurement in Manufacturing(07:50) Navigating System Integration Challenges(12:09) Managing Internal Stakeholders and Communication(15:58) Building Relationships and Team Dynamics(19:02) Hiring for Potential vs. Technical Skills(22:04) Onboarding in a Complex Tech Environment(26:02) Working Effectively with Consultants(28:58) Ensuring Knowledge Transfer from Consultants(31:54) Modernizing Legacy Systems(37:35) Lessons Learned from Legacy Data Management(41:16) Innovation in Procurement(43:43) Sustainable Digital Transformation(45:25) Future Trends in Procurement and Technology

In this episode of Builders, Lee Haynes interviews Pooyan Seddighzadeh, Vice President of Engineering at NOVO Energy, to discuss the future of battery technology and sustainable energy. Pooyan shares his journey into the battery industry, offering insights into technological advancements, recycling, and the role of regulations in shaping innovation. He highlights the importance of aligning engineering with strategic goals, building partnerships, and fostering sustainability. The conversation also explores the skills needed for engineering leadership, including flexibility, problem-solving, and guiding the next generation of engineers. A must-listen for anyone passionate about energy innovation and sustainable technology.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Novo Energy and Pooyan Sedigzadeh(03:41) Technological Shifts in Battery Energy Sector(06:15) Challenges in the Battery Industry: Competition and Overcapacity(09:13) Differentiating in the Energy Storage Market(10:35) Navigating Regulations and Policies in Europe(12:51) Sustainability at the Core of Novo Energy's Mission(13:47) Battery Recycling Initiatives and Challenges(19:17) Proud Moments in Battery Manufacturing(21:08) Measuring Sustainability Impact(22:48) Balancing Short-term Demands with Long-term Sustainability(23:06) Balancing Short-Term Survival with Long-Term Sustainability(24:24) Scaling Engineering Teams in a Rapidly Evolving Industry(27:29) Navigating Cultural Challenges in Diverse Teams(28:58) Identifying Strong Engineering Talent(31:10) Fostering Innovation and Collaboration(33:05) The Role of Partnerships in Energy Transition(36:48) Learning from Other Industries(38:40) Understanding Product Roadmaps in Engineering(40:52) Essential Leadership Qualities in Engineering(44:30) Advice for Young Engineers in Sustainable Energy

In this episode of Builders, Lee Haynes sits down with Gabor Harsanyi, Head of Marketing and Corporate Relations Data Office at Ericsson, to explore his journey from marketing to data analytics leadership. Gabor shares insights on data quality, customer experience, and the role of data in modern marketing strategies. He also discusses the challenges of leading data teams, mentorship, and attracting top talent, while reflecting on the future of data analytics in the age of AI. A must-listen for anyone interested in data-driven leadership, team building, and the evolving role of AI in business.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Gabor Harsanyi and Ericsson(01:08) Gabor's Career Journey in Data and Analytics(04:33) The Intersection of Data and Marketing at Ericsson(09:15) Data Quality Improvement and Its Impact(12:24) Leveraging Data for Customer Experience(18:13) Challenges in Data Analytics and Leadership(20:11) Learning from Failures in Data Strategy(25:50) Understanding Business Problems Before Solutions(28:02) Building and Leading Teams at Ericsson(29:18) Building Effective Teams: Skills and Qualities(33:09) Attracting and Retaining Talent in Data(35:38) The Evolving Role of Data Leaders(36:50) The Importance of Mentorship(39:16) Future Trends in Data Analytics(45:26) Career Advice for Aspiring Data Professionals

In this episode of Builders, host Lee Haynes sits down with Martina Johannesson, Senior Technical Product Manager at Unity, to explore the intersection of AI and creativity. Martina shares her journey into tech and product management, and unpacks the exciting innovations—and complex challenges—behind developing AI tools for creators. From democratizing creative expression to navigating the ethical implications of AI-generated content, Martina offers a thoughtful look at the future of AI in creative industries.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to AI and Creativity(02:17) Martina's Journey in Tech(04:09) Defining Creativity in the Age of AI(05:36) Unity's Impact on the Creative Industry(08:04) Unity's Role Beyond Gaming(10:16) AI Tools for Creative Workflows(14:02) AI's Role in Overcoming Creative Blocks(16:11) Benchmarking Creativity with AI(20:04) Balancing AI and Human Creativity(22:31) AI in Game Development: Challenges and Opportunities(25:56) User-Centric Design in AI Tools(28:22) Feedback Loops: Shaping AI Development(30:05) Navigating Challenges in AI Tool Development(34:33) Ethical Considerations in AI Content Generation(38:26) The Future of AI and Creativity(41:19) Advice for Aspiring Product Managers

In this episode of Builders, host Lee Haynes talks with Sepehr Mohammadi, AI and Machine Learning Tech Lead at Apotea, Sweden’s first full-scale online pharmacy. Sepi shares his journey from hands-on engineering to technical leadership, offering a candid look at the challenges of hiring in AI, building high-performing teams, and designing real-world machine learning solutions. Chapters(00:00) Introduction to AI and Machine Learning in E-commerce(01:14) Seppi Mohamedi's Journey: From Engineering to AI Leadership(06:20) Challenges in Transitioning to Leadership Roles(07:33) Hiring for AI and Machine Learning: Evolving Criteria(13:26) Assessing Candidates: Skills and Continuous Learning Mindset(14:12) Building and Scaling High-Performing Machine Learning Teams(20:54) Designing Machine Learning Platforms vs. Traditional Software(23:52) Cloud Technologies and Their Impact on Machine Learning Platforms(26:28) Common Mistakes in Designing Machine Learning Platforms(27:19) The Importance of a Solid Data Layer(28:22) Shifting Business Expectations of AI(30:48) Bridging the Gap Between Technical and Business Teams(35:03) Innovative Machine Learning Products at Apotea(38:48) Future Opportunities in AI-Driven Automation(42:30) Building Foundations for Innovation(44:12) Leadership Qualities in AI and Machine Learning(46:04) Listening to Your Team for Success

In this episode of Builders, host Lee Haynes sits down with Mina Boström Nakicenovic, CTO of Flightradar24, to explore her transition from developer to tech leader in one of the world’s most data-rich aviation platforms. Mina shares her insights on self-leadership, building high-performance engineering teams, and aligning technology with business strategy. She also discusses the critical role of data quality, sustainable growth, and collaboration in innovation. Learn how Flightradar24 uses flight data to shape the future of aviation and what emerging technologies are set to transform the industry.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Mina Boström Nakicenovic(01:09) Mina's Career Journey and Transition to Leadership(03:07) Influence of Diverse Experiences on Leadership(04:26) The Importance of Self-Awareness in Leadership(07:11) Cultivating Self-Leadership in Teams(09:43) Integrating Business Strategy with Technology Leadership(12:56) Hiring for Technical Roles: Key Qualities(14:35) Building High-Performance Teams vs. Local Champions(18:10) Models of Optimal Company Growth(24:43) Achieving Sustainable Growth Without Sacrificing Culture(26:34) The Helicopter Pilot Metaphor for Leadership(27:38) Managing Expectations in a Growing Company(30:35) Data as a Product Strategy(33:24) Diverse Customer Segments and Their Needs(37:36) Technical Challenges in Data Infrastructure(41:43) Collaboration Between Technical and Non-Technical Teams(43:43) Balancing Data Quality with Innovation(45:11) Emerging Technologies and Future Trends(48:15) Advice for Aspiring Technical Leaders

In this episode of Builders, host Lee Haynes chats with Aron Tanos, backend developer and robotics expert from the Proxify network. They explore Aron’s journey from a childhood fascination with tech to his work across startups and major corporations. Aron shares unique insights into the rise of humanoid robots, cultural resistance to robotics, and the real impact of AI on jobs. Chapters(00:00) Introduction and Aron's Background(03:01) Balancing Leadership and Hands-On Work(05:39) Experience Leading Teams and Working in Different Sectors(07:38) Preference for Startup Environment(10:32) Applying High Performance Mindset to Technology Solutions(14:06) Exciting Developments in AI and Robotics(16:08) Limitations of Humanoid Robots(18:45) Psychological and Cultural Barriers to Acceptance of Robots(22:44) The Future of AI and Robotics(24:29) The Decline of Junior IT Positions(26:47) The Potential of Robots in Healthcare and Elderly Care(28:34) Addressing the Emotional Needs of Individuals(31:09) Advice for Aspiring Developers(35:22) The Unique Perspective of Being a Developer and Customer

Senior Data Manager at Booking.com, Mahmoud Yassin, shares how to build a data-driven culture, improve data quality, and balance AI with human judgment. Learn about data governance, hiring for data roles, and driving change in a fast-paced, regulated environment.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Data Leadership(00:56) Mahmoud's Journey in Data Management(05:05) Current Role at Booking.com(05:40) A Day in the Life of a Data Manager(08:14) Data-Driven Customer Experience(12:12) Ensuring Actionable Insights(15:52) Avoiding Data Paralysis(18:33) Balancing AI and Human Judgment(21:14) Guardrails for Machine Learning Models(23:43) Adapting to Regulatory Changes(25:26) Navigating Data Management and Regulation(27:20) Fostering a Data-Centric Culture(30:42) Overcoming Resistance to Data-Driven Change(32:41) Hiring for Data Roles in a Competitive Landscape(36:06) Balancing Soft Skills with Technical Expertise(38:45) Emerging Trends in Data and AI(41:29) Skills for Aspiring Data Leaders(44:35) Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations and Innovations

In this episode of Builders, host Lee Haynes speaks with Annie von Heijne, Manager of Data & Analytics Transformation at EcoGroup. Annie shares her journey in business transformation and how data plays a pivotal role in driving strategic decisions. They dive into the importance of collaboration between tech and business teams, overcoming misalignment, and the value of data quality in uncovering operational truths.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Annie von Heijne and EcoGroup(01:28) Annie's Career Journey and Passion for Analytics(03:47) The Role of Data and Analytics Transformation(06:40) Understanding EcoGroup's Business Model(08:02) Technological Transformations in Customer Experience(10:30) Analytics as a Strategic Asset(12:44) Fostering Collaboration Between Tech and Business(16:29) Challenges of Misalignment in Teams(20:03) Team Structure and Ownership in Transformation(23:11) Approaching Business Transformation with Analytics(25:56) Data Quality and Business Process Transformation(27:55) Insights from Analytics: Aha Moments(31:24) Strategic Initiatives in AI and Data(34:41) Leadership's Role in Data-Driven Culture(38:39) Future Trends in Retail Analytics(44:58) Practical Advice for Early Analytics Journeys