Jennifer is the founder of Data Relish, a boutique consultancy firm dedicated to providing strategic guidance and executing data technology solutions that generate tangible business benefits for organizations of diverse scales across the globe. In our conversation, we unpack why a data platform is not the same as a database, working as a freelancer in the industry, common problems companies face, the cultural aspect of her work, and starting with the end in mind. We also delve into her approach to helping companies in crisis, why ‘small’ data is just as important as ‘big’ data, building companies for the future, the idea of a ‘data dictionary’, good and bad examples of data culture, and the importance of identifying an executive sponsor.

Key Points From This Episode:

• Introducing Jennifer Stirrup and an overview of her professional background.
• Jennifer’s passion for technology and the exciting projects she is currently working on.
• Alan Turing’s legacy in terms of AI and how the landscape is evolving.
• The reason for starting her own business and working as a freelancer.
• Forging a career in the technology and AI space: advice from an expert.
• Challenges and opportunities of working as a consultant in the technology sector.
• Characteristics of AI that make it a high-pressure and high-risk environment.
• She breaks down the value and role of an executive sponsor.
• Common hurdles companies face regarding data and AI operations.
• Circumstances when companies hire Jennifer to help them.
• Safeguarding her reputation and managing unrealistic expectations. 
• Advice for healthy data practices to avoid problems in the future.
• Why Jennifer decided on the name Data Relish.
• Discover how good and reliable data can help change lives.

Quotes:

“Something that is important in AI is having an executive sponsor, someone who can really unblock any obstacles for you.” — @jenstirrup [0:08:50]

“Probably the biggest [challenge companies face] is access to the right data and having a really good data platform.” — @jenstirrup [0:10:50]

“If the crisis is not being handled by an executive sponsor, then there is nothing I can do.” — @jenstirrup [0:20:55]

“I want people to understand the value that [data] can have because when your data is good it can change lives.” — @jenstirrup [0:32:50]

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Jennifer Stirrup

Jennifer Stirrup on LinkedIn

Jennifer Stirrup on X

Data Relish

How AI Happens

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