Data & AI Mastery

Learn how Cambridge Spark helps organisations and leaders develop the data and AI skills that drive real transformation: cambridgespark.com In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, host Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma speaks with Ming Tang, Chief Data and Analytics Officer at NHS England. Ming has spent her career leading some of the most ambitious digital and data transformations in the UK public sector. Together, they explore how data and AI are reshaping the future of healthcare, from modernising patient journeys and connecting siloed systems to deploying AI tools that help clinicians and operations teams work smarter. Ming’s insights highlight how the right mindset, structure, and curiosity can unlock meaningful impact at scale. Listeners will also discover how the NHS is building a connected, patient-centric ecosystem through the Federated Data Platform (FDP) and the single patient record initiative and why listening and collaboration, not just technology, are key to solving complex system challenges. Whether you work in healthcare, data science, or digital transformation, this conversation offers powerful lessons in leading with purpose, designing around users, and scaling innovation responsibly. Be sure to follow Data & AI Mastery wherever you listen to your podcasts to never miss an episode. Chapter Markers: (03:30) Lessons from leading large-scale transformation (06:00) Why listening and curiosity matter more than technology (11:00) Designing flexible, modular NHS systems for efficiency and collaboration (15:00) The Federated Data Platform: enabling connected, data-driven care (18:00) Real-world AI applications in the NHS: discharge summaries, voice tech & analytics (21:00) Advice for leaders; adopting AI through curiosity and context (25:00) Raoul’s reflections; leading with empathy, curiosity, and user-first thinking Useful Links: Connect with Ming on LinkedIn Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programmes at cambridgespark.com

Learn more about how CambridgeSpark.com is helping organisations and professionals master Data & AI skills to stay ahead in the digital era. In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, host Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma sits down with Dr. Petar Veličković, Senior Staff Research Scientist at Google DeepMind and Affiliate Lecturer at the University of Cambridge. Together they explore how cutting-edge AI research transitions from theory to practice, spanning from breakthroughs in graph neural networks that power Google Maps worldwide, to the use of AI as a discovery partner in mathematics. Petar shares his journey from Serbia to Cambridge to DeepMind, and the pivotal lessons learned at every stage. Listeners will also hear how DeepMind’s graph machine learning models improve global travel-time predictions in Google Maps, how AI can accelerate scientific discovery, including mathematical proofs and what the concept of an “AI scientist” might mean for the future of research. Whether you’re a data scientist, ML engineer, or executive exploring AI strategy, this episode offers a masterclass in applying AI innovation with purpose and impact. Be sure to follow Data & AI Mastery wherever you listen to your podcasts to never miss an episode. Chapter Markers: (06:00) - Inside DeepMind; what a Senior Staff Research Scientist does (13:00) - From research to real-world impact: challenges & latency trade-offs (19:00) - AI for mathematics; collaborating with top researchers (25:00) - Defining the “AI scientist” and the future of autonomous research (30:00) - What’s next for AI agents and self-directed systems (31:00) - Quick-fire round; programming languages, school favourites & music (33:00) - Raoul’s takeaways; user focus, AI as a thought partner, safe deployment Useful Links: Connect with Petar on LinkedIn Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programmes at cambridgespark.com

In this engaging discussion, Andy MacMillan, CEO of Alteryx, shares his journey from product management in major companies like Oracle and Salesforce to empowering non-developers to harness messy data. He reveals how to implement AI responsibly in organizations and the importance of creating AI alongside legacy systems. Andy also explains the concept of agentic AI, emphasizing context for accurate decision-making, and highlights how practical problem-solving can drive ROI, citing examples like McLaren’s use of race data.

Aidan Innes, Head of Data Standards at Nuffield Health, shares his intriguing journey from sports science to data leadership. He discusses building outcome frameworks that influence patient care and the impact of advanced analytics on healthcare. Aidan highlights the importance of data literacy, revealing how apprenticeships have helped Nuffield save millions and empower staff. He also speaks about scaling COVID-19 rehab programs and measuring ROI, offering practical insights into the future of data in healthcare.

Start your data & AI transformation journey with Cambridge Spark. What does it take to prepare students—and their teachers—for a future shaped by AI? In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, host Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma sits down with Prof. Sue Sentance, Director of the Raspberry Pi Computing Education Research Centre at the University of Cambridge, to explore the evolving landscape of computing education.  From the importance of teaching AI literacy and programming skills, to the challenges of teacher development and interdisciplinary learning, Sue offers research-backed insights into what inclusive, future-ready education should look like.  They discuss the role of pedagogy like PRIMM, frameworks such as SEAME, and why critical thinking—not just technical know-how—is essential for navigating today’s digital world. Whether you're an educator, policymaker, or AI enthusiast, this conversation will leave you rethinking how we equip the next generation with the skills to engage with, critique, and shape AI technologies. Chapter Markers: (00:00) Start Your Journey into AI Mastery Kick off with Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma as he sets the stage for this episode's deep dive into computing education and AI literacy. (01:20) Discover Prof. Sue Sentance’s Path to Shaping Computing Education Explore Sue’s unique journey from AI PhD to classroom teacher to academic leader in computing pedagogy. (03:29) Unpack the Latest Research in AI and Programming Education Learn about Sue’s current work, including AI education, debugging, and longitudinal studies in physical computing. (04:43) Master the Skills You Need in the Age of AI Find out what essential skills students need today to thrive in an AI-driven world—and why confidence and critical thinking are key. (08:51) Learn Why We Must Teach AI—and How to Do It Effectively Sue explains why understanding AI isn't optional and offers insights on how we can teach it meaningfully in schools. (11:59) Break Down AI Literacy with Real-World Frameworks Get to grips with leading AI literacy models from UNESCO, OECD, and the EU—and their implications for education. (15:01) Get Actionable Advice for Parents Navigating AI and Tech Sue shares how parents can support their children in learning about AI—even without technical expertise. (17:23) Explore the Line Between Teaching with AI and Teaching About It Understand the difference and how educators can responsibly integrate AI tools into teaching practices. (21:26) Debate the Future: Should We Still Teach Programming? Sue tackles the hot topic of whether coding still matters in an age of generative AI—and what we risk if we stop. (24:08) Hear Personal Insights in a Rapid-Fire Q&A Find out Sue’s favourite programming language, subjects at school, and the music that fuels her work. (28:23) Wrap Up with Final Thoughts on Empowering Learners with AI Raoul reflects on key themes, from coding's long-term value to the role of education in fostering AI literacy. Useful Links: Enjoying the Show? If you enjoyed this conversation, help us spread the word: Rate & Review on Apple PodcastsVisit Cambridge Spark to explore programmes that future-proof your data & AI skillsConnect with Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma on LinkedInConnect with Prof. Sue Sentance on LinkedInExplore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com

Start your data & AI transformation journey with Cambridge Spark. In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma speaks with Matthew Cloke, Chief Technology Officer at Endava, about how one of the world’s leading technology companies is embracing AI at scale. Matt shares how Endava created an AI committee to set governance and strategy, built cross-functional champions networks and celebrated AI heroes to drive adoption, and invested in ChatGPT Enterprise across 8,000 employees, achieving 85–90% daily usage. The pair also dive into the business case for AI and how to secure executive buy-in and why creating "wake-up moments" for executives is critical. Whether you’re a senior leader shaping AI strategy or a professional curious about scaling adoption, this conversation is packed with actionable insights. Be sure to follow Data & AI Mastery wherever you listen to your podcasts to never miss an episode.  Chapter Markers: (03:45) Who owns the AI agenda? Inside Endava’s AI committee (10:30) The Champions Network & AI Heroes (15:20) Making the business case for ChatGPT Enterprise (25:30) “Wake up, crawl, walk, run”: driving executive aha moments (29:30) Balancing wait-and-see vs. first-mover advantage (32:40) Quickfire round: contrarian views, environment, favourite language & more (38:40) Closing reflections & key takeaways Useful Links: Connect with Matthew on LinkedIn Visit the Endava Website Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com

Tamar Yehoshua, former President at Glean and seasoned leader with a rich background at Google and Slack, discusses the essence of AI literacy in today's boardrooms. She emphasizes that imagination is the biggest hurdle to AI transformation, not just infrastructure. Tamar shares insights on AI agents' roles in various sectors and how successful leaders maintain authenticity and transparency. Additionally, she highlights the importance of defining AI metrics and the role boards play in ensuring a strong ROI from AI investments.

Learn how Cambridge Spark can help your business transform with data and AI: https://cambridgespark.com In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, host Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma sits down with Daniel Hulme, Chief AI Officer at WPP, to explore a bold rethinking of artificial intelligence—beyond automation and into adaptive, evolving systems. Daniel shares how marketing is being reengineered through AI—dynamic segmentation, synthetic audiences, brand-safe content generation, and more—and how businesses must focus on frictions rather than blindly chasing trends. Drawing on decades of experience, he also reveals a powerful framework for AI defensibility built on data, talent, and leadership. This is a must-listen for executives, AI practitioners, and innovators eager to move past hype and into action. 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe and follow to catch more discussions with data & AI leaders who are transforming their industries. Chapter Markers: (05:50) The case for goal-directed adaptive systems (08:05) Why businesses chase tech hype instead of solving problems (12:34) Case study: Using AI to augment creativity at scale (15:07) Micro-moments & the future of personalised, timely marketing (17:00) Real-world transformation challenges (and how to overcome them) (19:05) What gives AI efforts defensibility in business (21:39) Biggest misconceptions business leaders have about AI (24:46) Daniel on staying ahead: predictions, neuromorphic AI, philosophy Useful Links: Connect with Daniel Hulme on LinkedIn Visit the WPP Website Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com

Learn how Cambridge Spark can help your business transform with data and AI: https://cambridgespark.com In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma is joined by James Garner, Head of AI & Data at Gleeds, a global construction consultancy. Together they explore how a traditionally conservative industry is embracing data and AI to drive innovation, improve forecasting, and revolutionise operations. James shares his remarkable journey from chartered quantity surveyor to leading Gleeds' AI and data initiatives. They discuss why domain expertise combined with data science is the new superpower — and why finding these "translators" is so hard. They also cover the importance of hackathons, experimentation, and failing fast to discover valuable AI use cases in construction. And finally they discuss why data quality matters — but isn't the blocker people think it is anymore — and why culture and continuous upskilling are the real keys to AI adoption. Whether you’re in construction, infrastructure, energy, or just keen to see how AI is reshaping even the most traditional sectors, this conversation is packed with practical insights and future-facing perspectives. 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe and follow to catch more discussions with data & AI leaders who are transforming their industries. Chapter Markers: (07:10) Data quality, domain expertise, and building that first model (10:22) Taking prototypes to production (11:28) GPT chatbots, LLMs, and the assist tool for industry knowledge (13:48) Why hackathons and safe sandboxing accelerate innovation (16:47) The near future: AI agents, robotics, and blockchain impact (21:30) Worries about industry readiness and losing control to big tech (22:57) Quickfire Round: contrarian views, magic wand problems & learning mindset Useful Links: Connect with James Garner on LinkedIn Visit the Gleeds Website Find out more about Project Flux here Subscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter & Podcast here  Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com

Transform your workforce with cutting-edge data & AI skills — visit cambridgespark.com to get started today. In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma sits down with Jeff Boudier, who leads Product and Growth at Hugging Face, the world’s leading open platform for AI builders. Throughout the episode, the pair explore how enterprises are turning to smaller, specialised open models to solve real business problems; the importance of maintaining control over your data; and how Hugging Face is helping enterprises bring AI safely into production. Whether you’re a CTO navigating how to deploy AI at scale or an engineer eager to sharpen your edge, this episode delivers powerful takeaways on using data & AI strategically — not just for experimentation, but for driving real ROI. Subscribe to Data & AI Mastery and never miss insights from global leaders pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with data. Chapter Markers: (05:50) Real-world ROI: Financial services & patent tech using smaller open models (08:50) When to adopt specialised vs. large models (10:50) The AI adoption curve & why general models aren’t one-size-fits-all (12:30) Protecting your data: governance, builder culture, and avoiding lock-in (14:30) How Hugging Face keeps up with the latest developments in AI (17:50) Supporting enterprises: from rogue IT to secure, compliant AI (21:30) Security, safe tensors & scanning models for vulnerabilities (24:40) Quick-fire round: Jeff’s favourite programming language, subjects & music genre Useful Links: Connect with Jeff Boudier on LinkedIn Visit the Hugging Face Website Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com