LEAD WITH DATA Podcast

On this episode, I am excited to share a fireside discussion on Data Security. It’s quite scary when you realise how the amount of data available on us is making it easier for cybercriminals, which only highlights why this role will become more prominent. As data security becomes a crucial priority for organisations, we’re seeing the rise of dedicated data roles that focus entirely on safeguarding information. But what does a Data Security Specialist actually do? Where does this role fit within the wider data team?And how does it differ from traditional data roles?In this episode, I sit down with Aline Braganca, who made the transition from a traditional data role into data security. We discuss her journey, the evolving landscape of data security, and dive deep into the key responsibilities, challenges, and skills required for this vital role.Whether you’re curious about the rise of data security roles or considering this as a career path, this episode will provide valuable insights into how organisations are adapting to keep their data secure intoday’s complex environment.Tune in to learn more about what it means for the future of data careers.

In this episode, our conversation dives into the role of Business Intelligence (BI) in driving strategic value within organisations. We explore how to align BI with broader business goals, the essential roles for building a high-performing BI team, and the importance of balancing technical expertise with business insight. Our guest shares insights on where BI fits within the wider data ecosystem, the challenges of centralised vs decentralised BI models, and real-world examples of turning around BI projects that struggled to deliver.

Ever wondered what it really takes to deliver a large-scale data transformation? I had the privilege of sitting down with Bryn Goodey (Head of APAC Data Delivery for SEEK), who led the data transformation as part SEEK's Unification Program—a massive initiative that consolidated all of SEEK's online product and corporate systems for eight countries across the APAC region.In this episode, Bryn takes us through their journey, sharing key considerations, how they balanced the ongoing demands of the business with the project’s needs, and the obstacles they had to overcome. He shares valuable insights on key lessons learned, as well as potential pitfalls to avoid when managing such complex transformations.If you’re looking for practical takeaways on embarking on large-scale data transformations, this is the episode for you. 

Highly recommend listening to this episode of the Lead with Data Podcast where we have a fantastic discussion on the successes and challenges of leadership. Join me as I sit down with Simon Herbert – Group GM of Data & Insights at Ramsay Health Care, a seasoned leader with a diverse background spanning multiple industries. Simon has held leadership roles across various disciplines, including software engineering, data, managementconsulting, program management and transformation. In this engaging and light-hearted conversation, we delve into his leadership experience and what he believes builds high-performing and engaged teams. Whether you're an experienced leader or an aspiring leader, there is something for everyone on this episode

If you've ever wondered what analytics looks like within the industrial manufacturing sector, don't miss this episode.We're joined by Stephen Jarvis an experienced leader with extensive expertise in digital transformation and data science. Stephen has held significant roles in various well-known organisations, where he has led innovative global data and AI projects.In this episode, Stephen shares his insights and observations on advanced analytics and machine learning in the industrial manufacturing sector, offering real examples of how they are being adopted across the organisation.🎧 Tune in to this discussion where we explore how analytics is being leveraged and explore the potential within this industry..

We're delighted to bring you another engaging discussion with @Antony Ugoni. Antony is a seasoned Data Science Leader who has had a diverse career, starting as a biostatistician, then transitioning to lecturing, and ultimately establishing himself as a respected data leader.In this episode, our focus is on how, as a leader in data science or advanced analytics, you can demonstrate value. Antony shares real-life, simple yet impactful examples of how to identify and seize opportunities. Once again, we have a fascinating and insightful conversation that anyone can relate to to understand the power of analytics Key topics covered include:What businesses expect when hiring a Data Science LeaderHow to prioritise data initiativesIntroducing technologies to enhance the value delivered by data analyticsThe significant impact of AI on the value of data projectsThe importance of the relationship between data leaders and executive leadershipMeasuring and communicating success

Super excited to have been able to get some time with Craig Rowlands – GM of Data – Australian Unity to share his experience and talk through a range of topics. Craig has led large data transformation strategies with some of the largest organisations both here and overseas. One of my curiosities is once you get into leadership, how do you continue to have an impact each time you join a new organisation? Surely there is an expectation when you join a business, and understanding what that looks like and how to meet and exceed those expectations is a key part of the discussion we have on this episode.In addition to this we cover:Approaching data strategy in established businesses that have legacy systemsWhat Data Transformation and scalability meanSome of the biggest challenges he has facedHow Craig has improved diversity in his teams over the yearsWhat soft skills are important for aspiring data leaders

Join us for an insightful and candid discussion with Arjun Shankar, a seasoned data professional and leader. Arjun has a diverse background, having worked in a variety of roles across different data functions, and has implemented numerous cloud data platforms.In our conversation, Arjun shares his experiences and provides practical approaches for transitioning from on-premises to the cloud. He openly discusses some of the challenges and the importance of creating the right environment to drive this change.- What are the key considerations before starting this journey- How do you go about delivering the platform- What has worked well and what hasn't- The importance of having the right skills and team.- What does data engineering look like with Gen AI in the mix

A great discussion with Jeremiah Mannings, founder of Futuregrip AI, a data consultancy established to provide advisory and strategic support for introducing AI initiatives and incorporating AI into existing data strategies.Our conversation centres around a recent keynote that Jeremiah presented, but here we unpack the topic in more detail:The key challenges when it comes to Gen AIHow data leaders can demonstrate value and the narrative around AI when presenting to their executivesWhat do your board and executives care about and whyHow to set the environment for successWhy data leaders should place a huge focus on the creation of value

We’re really excited to have had Christian Biggs join us on the podcast to talk about the importance of preparing for the emergence and adoption of AI, especially with GEN AI in the picture.Christian is a seasoned data leader with years of consultancy experience and a track record of driving innovation and leveraging cutting-edge technologies to enhance data capabilities. He shares some of the challenges organisations are facing, even though we are still very early in the journey, and some of the strategies he is using to understand and integrate the use of GEN AI into their operations from a governance and privacy perspective.We cover:❓ What AI Governance means❓Steps organisations can take to prepare for AI❓How to choose the right AI tools and platforms❓What ethical risks organisations should consider when adopting AI❓Why organisations need to focus on AI learning, and not just for the data team

Welcome to another episode of the Lead with Data podcast. Today, we're joined by Antony Perera, a seasoned Chief Data Officer with a wealth of experience across a diverse range of organisations. Antony has worked in various industries, including health, telecommunications, and more recently, the education sector. Our topic of discussion today is cloud computing and managing costs.- We discuss the advantages and disadvantages of cloud computing.- With so many options available, how to choose the right one.- How to manage costs when it comes to cloud computing.Tune in to gain valuable insights from Antony’s extensive experience and tips on how to make the most of your cloud investments.

In this episode, we had the privilege of talking with Bhavisha Sharma, a seasoned Data Strategy and Transformation Specialist. With a robust background in implementing data transformation strategies across various sectors such as financial services, insurance, government, healthcare, and retail. Bhavisha is well-equipped to share useful insights gained from her extensive experience in both industry and consulting.During our enlightening conversation, we delved into:What comprises a solid data transformation journey.Some of the common challenges organisations encounter when implementing a data transformation strategy.Key steps necessary for executing and delivering a successful data transformation.How to quantify the benefits and value of data transformation efforts.Tune in to gain valuable insights into the world of data transformation in driving impactful change through strategically led data initiatives.

Join us as we delve into the topic of driving value through real-time analytics with Andre Easom, a seasoned Data Science Leader. With an academic background in research & statistics, Andre has dedicated the past decade to working with a well known organisation, playing a pivotal role in enhancing customer experience using data science to solve interesting problems and build leading products. In this fireside discussion, we'll explore:Examples of use cases where real-time analytics has significantly driven value.Strategies for driving customer value through the development of real-time analytics.The importance of data governance, data accuracy, and integrity in the context of real-time analytics.Advantages and disadvantages of implementing real-time analytics.Methods for measuring the success and effectiveness of real-time analytics initiatives.Key indicators that organisations should look for to determine their readiness for real-time analytics.Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights from Andre Eason on how real-time analytics can help drive value when done well.

Join us as we sit down with seasoned data leader Fred Herselman who has spearheaded transformative initiatives for well-known global organisations. With a focus on robust governance and risk management, Fred has driven tangible results by leveraging AI to unlock new revenue streams and deepen customer connections. As an executive, Fred is committed to breaking down silos, fostering collaboration, and staying ahead of the curve in the evolving data landscape. In this episode, Fred shares his journey from being a data specialist to a data leader, our discussion includes:How he transitioned into leadership roles Navigating the temptation to remain hands-onTackling challenging situations where he felt out of his depthHow he maintained a balance between staying relevant and leading successful teams and organisations. This episode is a must-listen, particularly for those seeking guidance on forging their path to leadership, identifying key opportunities, and easing concerns about transitioning away from hands-on work.

In our most recent episode, we had the privilege of sitting down with Guy Inbar, Group Product Manager at Littlepay. With over two decades of experience in product management, innovation, and strategic leadership, Guy Inbar is a seasoned professional known for his dynamic approach to driving growth and spearheading transformative initiatives across a range of industries. Drawing upon Guy's extensive expertise in product management and data, we delve into the nuances of establishing a Data Analytics capability within a scaling and intricate environment of an organization like Littlepay, a growing fintech organisation. We cover:Where LittlePay Stands in Its Data JourneyIdentifying the Right Time to Enhance Data CapabilitiesDemonstrating Value Internally and ExternallyThe Relationship Between Product Management and DataThe conversation with Guy provides valuable insights into navigating the complexities of establishing a data analytics capability within a scaling organisation like LittlePay. By strategically timing investments, demonstrating value, and fostering collaboration between product management and data teams, organisations can harness the power of data to drive innovation and sustainable growth in today's dynamic business landscape.