Data & AI Mastery

Want to unlock the full potential of data & AI across your organisation? Visit cambridgespark.com to explore how we help enterprises upskill their workforce with cutting-edge, industry-relevant training programmes that drive real business impact. In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, host Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma sits down with Sam Smith, VP of Global Data Privacy and Governance at Merlin Entertainments, to explore how privacy and governance are the unsung heroes powering innovation in data-driven businesses. Sam shares her fascinating career shift from solicitor to data leader and unpacks what it really means to build effective global data governance strategies. They discuss how to demonstrate ROI from data governance, the carrot vs. stick of compliance, and the practical challenges of AI regulation in a hyper-connected world. Whether you’re a privacy professional, business leader, or data practitioner, this episode offers real-world insights on embedding privacy by design, aligning legal and commercial goals, and why AI literacy is now a business-wide mandate—not just a legal issue. If you found this episode valuable, don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review. Chapter Markers: (02:00) Samantha’s journey: From law to data privacy (04:30) Why data governance is a hard sell—and how to frame ROI (08:30) Data governance as both insurance and innovation (10:30) Key terms explained: Ownership, stewardship, and privacy (14:00) The ethics and strategy behind collecting personal data (18:00) What happens when AI tools go too far? (25:00) Where AI and data governance teams should sit in your org (27:45) Quick-fire questions: Industry views, lifelong learning, and favorite tunes (29:30) Raoul’s reflections: Why AI literacy matters now more than ever Useful Links: Connect with Sam Smith on LinkedIn Visit the Merlin Entertainments Website Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com

Want to equip your workforce with the data and AI skills they need to drive real transformation? Cambridge Spark partners with global organisations to build high-impact, scalable training programmes that deliver measurable business outcomes. Learn more at cambridgespark.com. In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma speaks with Roxane Heaton, Managing Director of Digital Colleague Experience at Barclays, about what it means to design digital systems for real people—at scale. Roxane shares her unique journey across the public and private sectors, from the Cabinet Office to Macmillan and now at Barclays, and brings an unshakable focus on user-centered innovation. In a world obsessed with digital transformation, Roxane challenges conventional thinking by arguing that AI doesn’t replace thinking—it deepens it. Whether you're a digital leader, HR strategist, or AI practitioner, Roxane offers an inspiring and grounded vision for inclusive, impactful transformation. Tune in to discover how to unlock human potential through data-driven design. Chapter Markers: (05:46) How to Measure the Impact of Digital Tools (08:32) Using Passive vs Active Data in AI Design (10:47) Automation, Copilots & Rethinking Workflows (13:07) Why Upskilling Requires More Than Just Tools (16:33) The Role of Ethics and Data Governance (19:51) Storytelling as a Leadership Skill in the AI Era (20:21) Why Design Thinking is the Must-Have Mindset (26:01) Raoul’s Reflections Useful Links: Connect with Roxane Heaton on LinkedIn Visit the Barclays Website Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com

Curious about how you or your organisation can lead in the age of AI? Visit CambridgeSpark.com to explore cutting-edge training programmes and resources. To celebrate the six-month milestone of Data & AI Mastery, we flip the script! This time, host Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma steps into the hot seat, interviewed by Cambridge Spark's CTO, Kevin Lemagnen.  In this special anniversary episode, Raoul shares his personal journey—from coding on calculators in high school to founding Cambridge Spark and leading the conversation on data and AI transformation. Together, they also go on to reflect on the biggest takeaways from past guests and why lifelong learning is no longer optional. Plus, Raoul answers a rapid-fire round of personal and professional questions that offer a glimpse into the mind behind one of the industry's most forward-thinking educators. Whether you're aspiring to lead in tech or shaping strategy from the C-suite, this episode offers insights, inspiration, and practical wisdom. Chapter Markers: (05:00) From calculators to classrooms: Raoul’s early love for education (15:00) The ROI of AI: cost vs. customer delight (20:00) Bold prediction: The rise of agentic AI in education (23:00) Favorite guest moments: from NATO to Lloyds to Pearson (26:00) The future of work and why apprenticeships matter (27:30) Quickfire round: contrarian views, reading habits, Python love, and more Useful Links: Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Connect with Kevin Lemagnen on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com Functional Programming in Java by Raoul-Gabriel Urma: Amazon Link

Learn more about Cambridge Spark and how we’re helping organisations upskill their workforce in Data & AI: https://cambridgespark.com In this episode of the Data & AI Mastery podcast, host Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma, sits down with Apoorv Kashyap, Head of Artificial Intelligence at Santander UK.  They explore the transformative power of AI in financial services, including how to leverage advanced machine learning models to enhance customer experience, streamline operations, and drive business value.  Apoorv shares his insights on the challenges and opportunities of deploying AI at scale, the importance of ethical AI, and the future of AI-driven finance. Don't forget to subscribe for more insights from AI leaders and industry experts. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network. Chapter Markers: (02:15) Apoorv Kashyap’s Career Journey in AI (06:45) Building Scalable AI Solutions (12:30) Overcoming Data Challenges in Financial Services (18:50) The Importance of Ethical AI (24:15) Future Trends in AI and Financial Services (28:30) Closing Thoughts and Key Takeaways Useful Links: Connect with Apoorv Kashyap on LinkedIn Visit the Santander UK Website Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn

Learn more about Cambridge Spark and how we’re helping organisations upskill their workforce in Data & AI: https://cambridgespark.com In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma sits down with Dave Treat, Chief Technology Officer at Pearson, to explore how one of the world’s largest education companies is leveraging AI and data to deliver more personalised, accessible, and effective learning experiences. With deep insights into the evolution of digital learning, Dave shares how Pearson is integrating generative AI across its content creation, tutoring, and assessment capabilities—while ensuring responsible and ethical use of the technology. From AI-powered learning companions to scalable data infrastructure, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the digital transformation of education at scale. Whether you're in EdTech, data leadership, or AI strategy, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways for anyone building data-driven experiences at scale. Chapter Markers: (03:28) From capital markets to edtech: Dave’s tech journey (06:10) What digital transformation means in a global education company (08:45) Pearson’s strategy for integrating generative AI (11:52) Personalised tutoring and assessment using AI (15:34) Building a robust data infrastructure for AI at scale (18:27) Balancing innovation with regulation and responsible AI (21:10) Organisational design and AI governance (24:56) AI literacy and upskilling the workforce Useful Links: Connect with Dave on LinkedIn Learn more about Pearson via their website  Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn

Learn more about Cambridge Spark and how we’re helping organisations upskill their workforce in Data & AI: https://cambridgespark.com In this episode of the Data & AI Mastery podcast, Raoul sits down with James Utting, Chief Business Officer for the Emerging Technology Group at UBS, to explore what it means to build an AI-first culture in a global financial institution. James starts off by sharing his career journey—from graduate to senior leadership—highlighting the pivotal moments that shaped his expertise in AI strategy, digital transformation, and leadership. He then goes on to detail UBS’s AI-first culture initiative, explaining how the bank empowers employees to integrate AI into daily decision-making, fosters tailored AI education, and ensures governance for responsible AI use. If you're a data leader, AI practitioner, or business executive, this conversation offers valuable takeaways on how to successfully navigate AI adoption at scale. Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe, rate, and leave us a review! Chapter Markers: (01:45) James’ Career Journey & Key Inflection Points (06:31) Why UBS is Developing an AI-First Culture (10:12) Initiatives to Drive AI Adoption at Scale (15:38) The Role of Education & AI Champions in Transformation (20:12) How UBS Prioritises AI Initiatives & Investments (24:45) Quickfire Round: Leadership, Learning & AI for Good (27:16) Closing Thoughts & Key Takeaways Useful Links: Connect with James Utting on LinkedIn Learn more about UBS’s AI initiatives on the UBS Website Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn

Rohit Dhawan, Group Head of AI at Lloyds Banking Group, dives into the transformative power of AI in banking. He emphasizes the importance of leadership buy-in for successful adoption and shares insights on how AI enhances customer experiences while streamlining operations. Dhawan discusses the need for comprehensive training programs to upskill employees and ensure they leverage AI effectively. The conversation highlights the future of banking reimagined through AI, focusing on innovation and cultivating a culture that embraces technology.

Learn more about Cambridge Spark and how we’re helping organisations upskill their workforce in Data & AI: https://cambridgespark.com In this episode of the Data & AI Mastery podcast, Raoul sits down with Manfred Boudreaux-Dehmer, the first-ever CIO of NATO, to explore how AI is shaping cybersecurity, digital transformation, and operational efficiency in one of the world's most complex organisations. Manfred shares insights on how NATO is adopting AI to enhance translation services, improve cybersecurity, and streamline enterprise operations. He also discusses the role of hackathons in fostering innovation, the importance of upskilling employees in AI, and the challenges of ensuring responsible AI adoption within a multinational defense alliance. This conversation is packed with valuable lessons for business leaders, technologists, and AI enthusiasts alike. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, follow, and leave a review to help others discover the show! Chapter Markers: (00:00) Introduction to Manfred Boudreaux-Dehmer (02:00) The role of a CIO at NATO (05:30) AI adoption at NATO: Opportunities & risks (08:50) Identifying AI use cases in a complex organisation (14:00) Measuring AI’s impact: Productivity vs. ROI (17:00) How hackathons are accelerating AI adoption at NATO (20:30) Exciting trends and concerns in AI (24:00) Quick-fire questions: Leadership, technology, and music preferences (28:30) Raoul’s reflections and takeaways Useful Links: Connect with Manfred Boudreaux-Dehmer on LinkedIn Follow Raoul-Gabriel Urma on LinkedIn Learn more about Cambridge Spark: cambridgespark.com

Learn more about Cambridge Spark and how we’re helping organisations upskill their workforce in Data & AI: https://cambridgespark.com Welcome to Data & AI Mastery, the podcast that brings you expert insights into how data and AI are transforming industries.  In this episode, Raoul sits down with Richard Masters, VP of Data and AI at Virgin Atlantic, to explore how the airline leverages AI and data-driven strategies to enhance operations, optimise pricing, and deliver premium customer experiences. The pair also go on to discuss why data & AI are critical for airline success, the build vs. buy dilemma in AI solutions, and the importance of a product mindset in AI adoption. Subscribe to Data & AI Mastery to never miss an episode! If you enjoyed today’s discussion, leave us a rating and review. Thanks for listening—stay ahead, stay inspired, and stay masterful! Chapter Markers: (02:30) Why data and AI are crucial for airlines  (07:20) The squad model: How data teams operate at Virgin Atlantic  (13:47) Build vs. buy: How to decide on AI solutions  (18:07) What Gen AI means for Virgin Atlantic  (21:05) Responsible AI: The importance of ethical and safe AI implementation  (24:21) Experimentation vs. long-term AI strategy  (28:13) Quick-fire round: Richard’s industry insights and personal favorites  (30:24) Final thoughts and key takeaways Useful Links:  Learn more about Cambridge Spark: cambridgespark.com  Connect with Richard Masters on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/richard-masters Follow Raoul Gabriel Urma on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/raoulurma Explore AI & Data Apprenticeships: cambridgespark.com/apprenticeships

Learn more about Cambridge Spark and how we’re helping organisations upskill their workforce in Data & AI: https://cambridgespark.com In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, host Raoul sits down with Prof. Alastair Beresford, Head of the Computer Science Department at the University of Cambridge, to discuss how AI is transforming education. They explore the benefits and challenges of AI-generated feedback for students, the future of coding in an AI-assisted world, and the critical skills learners need to succeed in the next decade. Prof. Alastair shares insights on the ICAP framework for measuring student engagement, the importance of asking the right questions, and the balance between teaching fundamentals vs. relying on automation. The conversation also touches on how universities can adapt assessments to ensure students truly understand the material, rather than just accepting AI-generated answers at face value. If you're interested in how AI is shaping the future of learning and work, this episode is a must-listen! Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe and follow to never miss an episode, and be sure to leave a rating and review to help others discover the show! Chapter Markers (00:00) Guest introduction: Prof. Alastair Beresford, University of Cambridge (03:30) How AI helps students learn faster with personalised feedback (14:45) The Downsides & Challenges of AI in Learning (16:57) The Future of Coding in an AI World (18:00) The Calculator Analogy: Learning vs. Automation (22:00) Why “asking the right question” is a critical skill in an AI-driven world (24:00) AI & The Future of Education (28:00) Quick Fire Questions (30:00) Raoul’s Reflections Useful Links Connect with Prof. Alastair’s on LinkedIn Find out more about GitHub Copilot: AI-assisted coding Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programs at cambridgespark.com