Join us for an insightful conversation with Catriona Campbell MBE, Chief Technology and Innovation Officer at EY. Catriona shares her fascinating journey from founding Seren in 2001, now one of the leading digital agencies in the world, to becoming an authority in AI policy as chair of the Scottish AI Alliance. She provides a detailed overview of her career, including her key roles at Barclays where she helped build the first online bank in the UK, and at GE, where she pioneered web-enabled services. Katrina also discusses the intricacies of building and scaling her company, EY Seren, and recounts the challenges of securing VC funding as a solo female entrepreneur. The episode concludes with valuable advice for organisations on leveraging AI and data for effective business transformation. This episode is packed with practical wisdom and first-hand experiences in digital transformation, AI implementation, and the evolution of technology in business. Brought to you by Ascendo Digital.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview

02:08 Early Life and Education

03:16 First Steps in Technology

04:25 Building the First Online Bank

05:08 Challenges and Successes at Barclays

11:06 Transition to GE and the Birth of CERN

16:30 Overcoming Funding Challenges

19:49 Early Successes and Growth

22:25 Navigating Market Turmoil

24:01 Expansion and Major Projects

25:53 Exit Strategy and Acquisition by EY

30:51 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

33:00 Understanding Share Structures and Business Growth

33:29 The Importance of Enjoying the Journey

34:10 Learning from Mistakes: Missed Opportunities

36:38 The AI Revolution: Hype vs. Reality

37:41 The Evolution of Technology: From Internet to AI

39:28 Productizing AI: The Key to Usability

43:47 The Disruption of Knowledge Work by AI

44:33 Investing in Technology and Talent

58:28 The Role of Data in AI Implementation

01:01:33 Advice for Small and Medium Enterprises

01:04:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts