Hub & Spoken: Data | Analytics | Chief Data Officer | CDO | Data Strategy

Roberto Maranca, a data and digital transformation expert, discusses the essence of creating a 'data fit' organization. He talks about looking to ancient philosophies to tackle modern data challenges and emphasizes the importance of a leadership mindset for data rather than treating it as merely a tech issue. The conversation touches on human understanding in AI interactions, formalizing knowledge into data intelligence, and the significance of aligning data strategies with tangible outcomes. Roberto also highlights the moral responsibility of humans amidst rising AI advancements.

Busy isn't the same as valuable. Too many data teams fall into the trap of endless activity chasing the next tool, migration, or hype, without ever proving their impact. In this episode of Hub & Spoken, Jason Foster, CEO and Founder of Cynozure, sits down with Maaike van den Branden, former Chief Data Officer at Compare the Market and Mumsnet, to uncover what truly makes a data team successful. Drawing on two decades of experience, Maaike shares the practical ingredients for teams that deliver real value: clarity of purpose, balanced skills, open recognition, and strong culture. Together, they explore how leaders can: Build happy, high-performing teams that last Avoid over-promoting tech at the expense of people Prove business impact without getting lost in the noise If you've ever wondered what separates a high-performing data team from a busy one, this conversation is your answer. 🎧 Listen now to learn the real secret to data team success.

AI is no longer a distant concept; it's here, reshaping the way we live and work. From coding and customer service to creative content, AI is already taking on tasks once thought to be uniquely human. But what does that mean for the future of work, and more importantly, for the role of leaders? In this solo episode of Hub & Spoken, Jason Foster, CEO and Founder of Cynozure, explores the real implications of AI on jobs, leadership, and human value. Drawing lessons from history, automation, shipping containers, even the rise of personal computing, Jason argues that every wave of technology has shifted humans "up a level of abstraction," moving us from doing to designing, to directing and innovating. He sets out four essential human traits to thrive in the age of AI: Think bigger – focus on outcomes, strategy, and imagination Lead differently – provide clarity, orchestrate teams, and build culture Connect deeper – lean into empathy, context, and trust Grow and adapt – stay curious, resilient, and open to change 🎧 Tune in to hear Jason's take on how we can design the future we want to be part of. ----------- Cynozure is a leading data, analytics and AI company that helps organisations to reach their data potential. It works with clients on data and AI strategy, data management, data architecture and engineering, analytics and AI, data culture and literacy, and data leadership. The company was named one of The Sunday Times' fastest-growing private companies in both 2022 and 2023 and recognised as The Best Place to Work in Data by DataIQ in 2023 and 2024. Cynozure is a certified B Corporation.   

What if the future of leadership wasn't explained by another CEO, but by an AI? In this special episode of Hub & Spoken, hosted by Jason Foster, CEO & Founder of Cynozure, the guest isn't a data or business leader. It's ChatGPT. Together, they explore one of the most pressing questions for organisations today: What does leadership mean in the age of artificial intelligence?  The discussion contrasts the logical view of leadership, vision, decision-making and orchestration, with the uniquely human qualities that machines can't replicate: courage under pressure, conviction, vulnerability, and trust.  The result is a fascinating tension. AI can support with logic, speed, and analysis. But leadership is still defined by what makes us human. 🎧 Tune in for this experiment in leadership dialogue. **********    Cynozure is a leading data, analytics and AI company that helps organisations to reach their data potential. It works with clients on data and AI strategy, data management, data architecture and engineering, analytics and AI, data culture and literacy, and data leadership. The company was named one of The Sunday Times' fastest-growing private companies in both 2022 and 2023 and recognised as The Best Place to Work in Data by DataIQ in 2023 and 2024. Cynozure is a certified B Corporation. 

James Lupton, the Chief Technology Officer at Cynozure, sheds light on the challenges organizations face in maximizing data and AI, particularly in the insurance sector. He critiques the hold that outdated legacy systems have on innovation and emphasizes the necessity of genuine leadership backing. Lupton discusses the role of user engagement in data initiatives and the importance of aligning technology with business goals. As firms explore AI solutions, he stresses that true readiness involves both cultural and technological overhauls, not just tech deployment.

In this engaging discussion, David Germain, a seasoned technology and transformation leader, shares insights from his 30-year career in banking and finance. He emphasizes that sustainable business growth hinges on inclusive leadership and a strong organizational culture. David highlights the importance of diverse leadership teams reflecting their customers. Trust, psychological safety, and 'constructive disruption' are essential for fostering innovation. The role of AI as both an enabler and disruptor is also explored, urging leaders to prepare their teams for upcoming challenges.

Why is meaningful innovation so hard in insurance, and what can be done about it? In this episode of Hub & Spoken, host Jason Foster is joined by John Turner, a global underwriting leader and expert in life and health insurance, to explore the innovation imperative in one of the world's most traditional (and risk-averse) industries. They unpack the complex cultural, structural, and regulatory challenges that make change difficult in insurance, from siloed teams and outdated processes to over-engineered tech solutions that miss the mark. But they also spotlight the opportunities: from automation that enhances the customer journey to cross-functional collaboration that drives real transformation. 💡 Key talking points include: Why conservative cultures make innovation harder — but not impossible The hidden flaws in traditional underwriting and risk selection How data, automation and behaviour change can unlock new growth The clash between insurers and insurtechs — and how to bridge it What truly customer-led innovation looks like Whether you're in insurance, financial services, or just trying to drive change in a legacy-heavy environment, this episode is packed with ideas, reflections, and real-world experience you can learn from. **********    Cynozure is a leading data, analytics and AI company that helps organisations to reach their data potential. It works with clients on data and AI strategy, data management, data architecture and engineering, analytics and AI, data culture and literacy, and data leadership. The company was named one of The Sunday Times' fastest-growing private companies in both 2022 and 2023 and recognised as The Best Place to Work in Data by DataIQ in 2023 and 2024. Cynozure is a certified B Corporation. 

In this episode, we look at the real story behind transformation in data and AI, and why the classic big bang approach often fails to deliver lasting impact. Jason explores when large-scale transformation programmes do make sense, like when you're starting from a fundamentally broken place, or when disruption is the goal. But he also digs into the messy reality of what usually happens: slow delivery, rigid plans, lost trust, and a disconnect between activity and real outcomes. He then makes the case for iterative change. A more human, responsive, and sustainable way to build meaningful transformation over time. With real-world examples and sharp reflections, Jason shares how small, focused steps can create big shifts, and how to blend bold vision with practical delivery. This episode is full of insight for business and data leaders navigating change, delivering transformation, or just trying to make something actually stick. **********    Cynozure is a leading data, analytics and AI company that helps organisations to reach their data potential. It works with clients on data and AI strategy, data management, data architecture and engineering, analytics and AI, data culture and literacy, and data leadership. The company was named one of The Sunday Times' fastest-growing private companies in both 2022 and 2023 and recognised as The Best Place to Work in Data by DataIQ in 2023 and 2024. Cynozure is a certified B Corporation. 

Cali Wood, the Head of Data and AI Strategy & Culture at AXA UK and Ireland, leads a transformative journey at AXA, focusing on embedding AI and data-driven culture throughout the organization. She discusses how a customer-first approach reshapes decision-making and emphasizes collaboration across business units. Cali highlights the launch of their Data and AI Academy, fostering data literacy among over half the workforce. The conversation delves into responsible AI practices, leadership's role in driving cultural change, and the evolution towards a more innovative insurance landscape.

The discussion dives into the critical importance of embedding real value in data and AI initiatives right from the start. It emphasizes the shift from vague aspirations to concrete outcomes that truly impact stakeholders. The host shares a practical approach focused on collaboration, clear intent, and continuous evaluation to drive meaningful results. Real-world examples illustrate how organizations can move from theoretical concepts to actionable strategies, ensuring their data efforts genuinely make a difference.