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

In this episode of Hub & Spoken, Jason Foster, CEO of Cynozure, chats with Luis Mejia, VP Data, Platforms & AI at PensionBee, about how the company is transforming the pension industry through smart use of data and AI. Luis shares how a digital-first mindset is helping PensionBee enhance customer experience, manage data effectively, and fuel business growth. He dives into how AI is being used in customer service, blending tech with human touch to build trust, and why ethics and transparency matter more than ever. From marketing to customer support, this episode explores the real-world challenges and opportunities of using data and AI. Luis also looks ahead to a future where AI helps democratise data and puts power in the hands of individuals. A must-listen for data and business leaders driving change in a digital world. Research Luis mentioned in the episode: https://www.pensionbee.com/uk/press/ai-and-pensions https://www.pensionbee.com/uk/press/age-vs-ai   Follow Luis on LinkedIn Follow Jason on LinkedIn ***********    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 of Hub & Spoken, host Jason Foster welcomes Sam White, the multi-award-winning Founder of Freedom Services Group and Global Founder of Stella Insurance Australia.  Sam shares her journey of building Stella Insurance, the challenges and opportunities of creating a digital-first insurance company, the importance of customer experience, and how Stella Insurance is reimagining financial services from a female perspective. Sam also discusses the impact of regulatory changes, the role of AI in the insurance industry, and the significance of diversity in business. This is a real gem of an episode, especially for entrepreneurs and business leaders interested in digital transformation, insurance innovations, and diversity in leadership.  Follow Sam: linkedin.com/in/samwhiteentrepreneur/ Follow Jason: linkedin.com/in/jasonbfoster/ ***********    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.

Jason's co-author, Barry Green, joins this next episode as they discuss the release of the second edition of "Data Means Business" on 25th March.  Returning for his third conversation on the podcast, Barry shares updates on the evolving landscape of data and AI, the impact of generative AI, and the importance of business capabilities. They delve into the changes since the first edition, including the role of the Chief Data Officer and the significance of adaptability in today's fast-paced world. Tune in to hear their thoughts on driving transformational change and delivering value with data & AI. The second edition of Data Means Business will be out on 25th March and will be available on Amazon. ***********    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.

This episode is a special edition in honour of International Women's Day on 8th March. Host Jason Foster is joined by Lou Hutchins, Director of Data Culture & Literacy at Cynozure, and Rose Attridge, Strategy Advisor at Cynozure. Together, they explore gender diversity in data and AI, the importance of sponsorship and allies, and challenges in male-dominated industries. They also discuss the role of data and AI in driving change, the need for role models, early engagement, and company action.    ***********    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, host Jason Foster is joined by Adam Elman, Director of Sustainability - EMEA, at Google.   Together they explore defining sustainability from environmental, social and governance perspectives, and the role of AI in sustainability, including AI's potential to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions by up to 10% by 2030.  They also discuss the future of sustainability and possibilities around technology's role in combating climate change, including advancements in clean energy and expanded AI applications. ***********    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. 

In this episode, host Jason Foster is joined by Amanda Bickerstaff, CEO & Founder, AI for Education.  Together they explore the impact of AI on young people, particularly in the context of education. They discuss AI literacy, the need for AI literacy among students, teachers, and policymakers and the need for understanding AI's capabilities, limitations, and ethical considerations.  They also discuss social media & AI integration and challenges in the education system.  The conversation touches on how AI is embedded in platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, and video games, influencing young people's perceptions and behaviours, sometimes without their awareness.  ***********    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, host Jason Foster is joined by Lara Menke, Leadership Psychologist & Executive Coach.  Together they explore leadership development and the application of business psychology to improve workplace dynamics and team performance.  They also discuss the transformative potential of emotionally intelligent, self-aware, and empathetic leadership in fostering resilient and effective teams.  ***********   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. 

In this engaging conversation, Barry Panayi, Chief Data and Insight Officer at John Lewis Partnership, shares his journey from coding novice to strategic data leader. He discusses the emerging role of Chief Data Officers, emphasizing the shift from technical expertise to business leadership. Barry delves into the impact of AI on data strategies, the importance of building trust within organizations, and how CDOs can enhance their commercial acumen. His insights offer valuable guidance for aspiring data leaders navigating the evolving landscape of data management.

In this episode, host Jason Foster is joined by Susie Moan, Chief Data Officer at Currys and member of Cynozure's Advisory Board. They explore some of the highlights of Susie’s accomplished career in data and AI, highlighting the significance of data value in a commercial business context.    The conversation also covers how Currys successfully balances growth with cost-saving initiatives, and emphasises the importances of aligning AI initiatives with an organisation’s overarching business strategy.  ***********   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. 

In this episode, host Jason Foster sits down with Osama Khan, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic and Professor in Finance at Aston University, Birmingham.  Together, they explore how data is transforming the landscape of higher education, from revolutionising decision-making to navigating the challenges and opportunities brought about by AI.    Osama also shares insights into Aston University's pioneering initiatives, including programs designed to equip students with essential skills in AI, sustainability and future-focused competencies that prepare them for the evolving world.    ***********      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.