How can businesses navigate the complexities of cloud costs while maximizing value across their operations? In this episode, we welcome Aviram Levy, Tech Evangelist at Zesty, to explore the current state of cloud usage and waste, and how companies can effectively manage and reduce these costs. With nearly two decades of experience in IT and cloud technology, Aviram offers valuable insights into the challenges that businesses face when transitioning to the cloud’s on-demand model. He sheds light on the common pitfalls, such as the lack of visibility into cloud consumption, which often leads to unexpected and inflated bills. Aviram discusses the critical role of FinOps in cloud cost optimization, explaining how dedicated teams and processes can bridge the gap between engineering and finance. He highlights best practices for implementing FinOps strategies, including the use of tools and automation to gain better visibility into cloud usage and to drive efficiency across cloud operations.  With economic volatility adding to the unpredictability of cloud costs, Aviram emphasizes the importance of proactive management and strategic planning. At the heart of this discussion is Zesty’s innovative approach to cloud cost optimization. Aviram introduces Zesty’s solutions, which provide real-time visibility into cloud usage and offer automated recommendations to reduce waste and optimize resources. He alsoexplains how Zesty’s automation engines can dynamically scale resources based on demand, ensuring that businesses only pay for what they truly need. Additionally, the newly launched platform, "Insights," is designed to help organizations prioritize and automate optimization opportunities, making cloud management more efficient and cost-effective. Looking to the future, Aviram shares his vision for the next wave of cloud cost optimization, which will include deep tech solutions tailored to specific workloads like databases and containers. He also discusses the growing importance of multi-cloud support and the continuous advancements in automation that will further enhance cloud efficiency. As businesses increasingly rely on cloud services, one pressing question remains: Are you doing enough to optimize your cloud costs and maximize the value of your cloud investments?

How is e-invoicing revolutionizing global trade, and why should businesses take notice? In this episode, we speak with Alex Baulf, VP of Global Tax at Avalara, to explore the rise of e-invoicing and its profound impact on commerce around the world.  As governments increasingly mandate e-invoicing across various geographies, businesses must adapt to this new digital era or risk falling behind. Alex, who serves on the European Commission's eInvoicing Technical Advisory Group and is a Board Member of the Digital Business Networks Alliance, offers a deep dive into e-invoicing, how it works, and why it's becoming a critical component of international trade. E-invoicing, a digital document with structured, machine-readable data, is not just about compliance but transforming how businesses operate. Alex explains how e-invoicing streamlines processes, reduces costs, and enhances data quality, all while ensuring tax compliance in an increasingly regulated environment. He also discusses the role of tax authorities in driving this shift, particularly in the EU, where harmonization efforts are well underway, and in the US, where market-driven approaches are gaining traction. The conversation delves into the regulatory landscape, highlighting how countries are mandating e-invoicing to close the "VAT gap" and increase tax revenue. By 2030, most countries are expected to have e-invoicing mandates, making it essential for businesses to prepare now. Alex shares practical advice on how companies can embrace e-invoicing strategically, from investing in scalable global solutions to focusing on data quality and integration. He emphasizes that e-invoicing should be seen as an opportunity for process automation and efficiency rather than just a compliance obligation. Looking ahead, Alex touches on future trends in e-invoicing, including the growth of standardized formats like the PEPPOL network, the use of QR codes for public validation, and the expansion from e-invoicing to full e-document exchange. As businesses navigate this digital transformation, one question remains: Are you ready to harness the benefits of e-invoicing and stay ahead in the global marketplace?

What does it take for a business to survive and thrive in the face of cyber threats? In this episode, I sit down with Muhammad Yahya Patel from Check Point Software to explore the crucial concept of business resiliency in cybersecurity. As cyber attacks become more sophisticated and widespread, a business's ability to continue operating during and after an attack is more critical than ever.  Muhammad delves into the strategies that companies need to adopt to build a resilient cybersecurity framework, starting with identifying critical assets, ongoing risk assessments, and implementing multi-layered security measures. We also discuss the significance of having a robust incident response plan and the importance of offsite backups and disaster recovery plans. In a world where email remains a primary attack vector—accounting for over 80% of initial cyber attacks in 2023—Muhammad emphasizes the need for advanced email security solutions. He shares insights on how AI and machine learning play a pivotal role in preventing email-based threats, from phishing to business email compromise. The conversation then shifts to vulnerability management, which is essential to maintaining a solid security posture. Muhammad explains the importance of regularly patching vulnerabilities in software and hardware to prevent exploitation by attackers. He provides practical advice on how organizations can effectively identify, prioritize, and manage these vulnerabilities to reduce risks and maintain operational continuity. Looking ahead, Muhammad is excited about quantum computing's potential to revolutionize data protection and enhance cybersecurity. He also highlights the ongoing advancements in AI and machine learning that push the boundaries of what’s possible in cybersecurity, ensuring that the field remains dynamic and ever-evolving. As we conclude the episode, one question remains: Is your business truly prepared to withstand the inevitable challenges of the cybersecurity landscape? What immediate steps can you take today to ensure long-term resiliency? The time to act is now.

How can the tech industry foster a more inclusive environment, and what role does diversity play in driving innovation? In this episode, I sit with Aleks Bass, Chief Product Officer at Typeform, to explore these critical questions and more. Aleks shares her experiences with gender bias throughout her career, offering valuable advice for women navigating the challenges of the tech world. With a commitment to diversity, Aleks discusses why having more women in leadership roles is essential and how companies can support this journey. At Typeform, diversity goes beyond gender; it creates a space where different perspectives and leadership styles thrive. Aleks reveals how Typeform, with a 50% female composition in its executive team, stays true to this commitment, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued. We also dive into Typeform's latest innovation, the Typeform for Growth suite, designed to help businesses capture, qualify, and convert leads more effectively. This new suite showcases how Typeform is leading the way in making data collection more engaging and intuitive, all while leveraging the power of AI to enhance customer acquisition. Aleks also highlights the broader impact of these technologies on the industry. As businesses increasingly rely on personalized, data-driven interactions, tools like Typeform for Growth become essential in staying competitive. With features like interactive video forms, automated data enrichment, and AI-powered analysis, companies can create more profound, meaningful connections with their audiences. As we wrap up the conversation, Aleks reflects on the future of tech and the importance of continuing to push for diversity and innovation. This episode sheds light on the challenges and opportunities within the tech industry. It leaves us with an important question: How can we all contribute to creating a more inclusive and innovative future in tech?

What does the future of connectivity in the UK look like, and how is Vodafone leading this transformation? In this episode, I explore the world of 5G Standalone (SA) technology with Maria Grazia (MG) Pecorari, a leader at Vodafone driving innovation in telecommunications. MG introduces us to the concept of 5G SA, explaining how it differs from the current network infrastructure and what it means for Vodafone and the broader UK. As we investigate the technical advancements, MG sheds light on the most exciting capabilities that 5G SA will bring, from enhanced network slicing to dedicated, high-performance connections tailored for specific use cases. We examine how this next-generation technology isn't just a step forward for connectivity but a leap that could revolutionize entire sectors. Imagine a future where the UK's public buildings—like schools, hospitals, and rail systems—are empowered by real-time, low-latency connectivity, enabling everything from immersive training for healthcare professionals to predictive maintenance for infrastructure. MG shares her vision for how 5G-powered technologies could provide critical support to the NHS, making hospitals more efficient and responsive to patient needs. However with all this potential comes significant challenges. We consider the obstacles that stand in the way of widespread 5G adoption, including the need for increased investment to boost the UK's mobile network quality and 5G rollout. MG discusses Vodafone's commitment to overcoming these hurdles, highlighting their ambitious plans to invest £11 billion over the next decade to extend 5G SA coverage. Throughout the conversation, MG provides fascinating insights into how 5G SA could transform beloved UK traditions, from how we experience sports and entertainment to how smarter, more connected environments could enhance our daily lives. The episode closes by reflecting on the broader implications of this technology, leaving us to ponder: How will 5G SA change how we live, work, and interact with the world around us?

How safe are we in the age of AI PCs? As AI technology becomes increasingly integrated into our everyday devices, the promise of faster, more personalized computing comes with a critical question: Are we truly prepared for the security and privacy challenges that follow? In this episode, I sit down with Eric Shulze, VP of Product Management at Trend Micro, to explore the rapidly evolving landscape of AI PCs. With chip makers in a race to innovate, these new devices promise unparalleled speed and privacy by running generative AI locally on specialized neural processing units (NPUs). But as AI’s role expands, so do the concerns over data security and privacy. Eric shares his insights on the potential risks associated with on-device AI, including the threat of compromised data and the spread of misinformation. We delve into the steps consumers can take to protect themselves, from choosing reputable vendors to implementing additional security layers. Eric also reveals how Trend Micro is stepping up to the challenge, with plans to roll out cutting-edge tools to safeguard AI PC users. But it’s not all about the risks. We also explore the excitement surrounding AI innovation—how it’s transforming personalization and accessibility in tech, and why ethical considerations must be at the forefront of this revolution. Plus, Eric offers a unique glimpse into his own career journey, from studying zoology and working as a dolphin trainer to becoming a leader in the tech industry. As AI PCs move from concept to mainstream reality, what do you need to know to stay safe and informed? Tune in to find out, and join the conversation on how we can balance innovation with privacy in the digital age. What are your thoughts on the future of AI PCs? Let us know!

Have you ever wondered how the business-to-business (B2B) payment landscape is evolving, and what the future might hold? In this episode, I sit down with Sarah-Jayne Martin, the Director of Financial Automation at Quadient Accounts Receivable, to explore how B2B payments are rapidly transforming to meet the demands of a more seamless, consumer-like experience. As businesses strive to streamline payment processes, Sarah-Jayne offers invaluable insights into how B2B payment systems are currently lagging, with issues such as lengthy processing times and limited visibility. She explains how companies can learn from business-to-consumer (B2C) models, like text-to-pay, and discusses the pivotal role of AI and intelligent automation in driving this change. Together, we delve into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead as organizations navigate this transition, highlighting how the integration of digital finance functions can unlock greater efficiency and transparency in the B2B space. How can businesses bridge the gap between B2B and B2C payment processes, and what does this mean for the future of financial transactions? Tune in to discover Sarah-Jayne's expert perspective, and join the conversation as we explore the next frontier in B2B payments.  

In a world where digital transformation is often seen as a pathway to efficiency and profitability, can it also pave the way for sustainability? This pivotal question forms the crux of our upcoming episode of Tech Talks Daily Podcast, where I sit down with Ricardo Lobo, CEO of Beontag. As a vanguard in the realm of RFID and IoT solutions, Beontag is at the forefront of a quiet revolution in the digital tagging industry, seamlessly blending innovation with ecological responsibility. Ricardo Lobo brings his expertise from leading a company that believes every item has a digital voice. From their new state-of-the-art R&D Center in Tampere, Finland, to their forthcoming facility in Dayton, Ohio, Beontag is setting the benchmark for sustainable operations and smart technologies. With initiatives like the ECO Tag and investments aimed at amplifying production capacities while minimizing environmental impact, Beontag exemplifies how businesses can meet escalating sustainability and traceability requirements without sacrificing their bottom line. Throughout our discussion, Ricardo will shed light on the unseen technologies that stitch together the processes of numerous industries, from luxury brands to smart cities. He will articulate how these innovations not only enhance operational efficiency and transparency but also empower companies to meet their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals. In an era where businesses grapple with integrating climate-friendly practices with competitive, profitable operations, can the right digital tools offer a solution where sustainability and business success converge rather than conflict? Join us as Ricardo Lobo illustrates a reimagined business landscape where technology and sustainability are not at odds but are components of a unified strategy benefiting customers, companies, and the planet. What are your thoughts on the intersection of technology and sustainability in business? Can digital innovations truly harmonize profitability with planetary health? Tune in and share your perspectives with us.

How can businesses effectively navigate the increasingly data-driven world we live in today? In this episode, we sit down with Felix Van de Maele, CEO of Collibra, to explore the pioneering role of the Chief Data Citizen and its vital importance in the modern business landscape. Felix shares the journey and vision behind Collibra's decision to appoint the first ever Chief Data Citizen, a role that underscores the critical intersection of data governance and AI. As he explains, "You can’t have AI without data, and you can’t have an effective AI workforce without data citizens." We delve into the responsibilities and impact of this role, offering a comprehensive understanding of how it drives data-centric innovation and organizational success. Discover why Collibra has always been ahead of the curve in recognizing the strategic value of data in shaping the future of work. Felix discusses the rationale behind this forward-thinking approach and why other companies should consider embracing similar roles to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Felix also sheds light on the rise of AI and the growing importance of data governance, providing insights into how businesses can leverage these trends to their advantage. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, business leader, or data professional, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on the role of data in driving meaningful change.  

Robert Israch, President of Tipalti, dives into the transformative impact of finance automation on IPO readiness. He highlights how excessive manual processes can stifle growth, revealing that processing a single invoice can take an astounding 42 minutes. As the tech IPO market revives, he advocates for streamlined finance operations, emphasizing the need for financial visibility and control. Israch also addresses skill gaps and complexities that hinder automation adoption, urging finance leaders to embrace technology for enhanced efficiency and strategic decision-making.