Driven by Data: The Podcast

In Episode 32, of Season 5 of Driven by Data: The Podcast, Kyle Winterbottom was joined by Arun Nandi, Chief Data and AI Officer at Carrier, where they discuss the transformative role of AI in business and its potential impact on climate change. They explore the importance of a value-first mindset in AI initiatives, the need for cultural alignment and stakeholder engagement, and the significance of reskilling the workforce in the AI era. Arun shares insights on building an AI accelerator programme and the challenges of measuring value in AI projects, emphasising the need for discipline and consistency in tracking outcomes.Takeaways:AI is a powerful enabler for business transformation.The importance of a value-first mindset in AI initiatives.AI's impact on climate change and sustainability is significant.Building an AI accelerator can drive innovation and speed.Cultural alignment is crucial for successful AI adoption.Measuring value in AI requires discipline and consistency.Stakeholder engagement is key to successful AI projects.Reskilling the workforce is essential in the AI era.AI should be viewed as a horizontal capability across organizations.The future of work will involve collaboration between humans and AI.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to AI and Data Leadership03:03 Carrier's Evolution and Purpose05:50 The Current AI Landscape and Its Future12:13 Navigating the AI Hype Cycle17:59 Keys to Success for AI Leaders27:31 The Shift to AI-First Mindset29:06 Prioritizing Value in AI Use Cases34:42 Fostering a Value-First Mindset39:43 Problem-Solving with AI as an Enabler46:16 Accelerating AI Implementation50:26 Cultural Alignment and Co-Ownership in AI53:25 AI's Role in Climate Change and SustainabilityThanks to our sponsor, Data Literacy Academy.Data Literacy Academy is leading the way in transforming enterprise workforces with data literacy across the organisation, through a combination of change management and education. In today's data-centric world, being data literate is no longer a luxury, it's a necessity.If you want successful data product adoption, and to keep driving innovation within your business, you need to start with data literacy first.At Data Literacy Academy, we don't just teach data skills. We empower individuals and teams to think critically, analyse effectively, and make decisions confidently based on data. We're bridging the gap between business and data teams, so they can all work towards aligned outcomes.From those taking their first steps in data literacy to seasoned experts looking to fine-tune their skills, our data experts provide tailored classes for every stage. But it's not just learning tracks that we offer. We embed a deep data culture shift through a transformative change management programme.We take a people-first approach, working closely with your executive team to win the hearts and minds. We know this will drive the company-wide impact that data teams want to achieve.Get in touch and find out how you can unlock the full potential of data in your organisation. Learn more at www.dl-academy.com.

In Episode 31, of Season 5 of Driven by Data: The Podcast, Kyle Winterbottom was joined by Catarina Miranda, Global AI Director at Pandora, where she shares her unique journey from biomedical engineering to AI and machine learning.She discusses the importance of AI literacy and governance within organisations, the recent breakthroughs in AI technology, and common misconceptions surrounding its capabilities.Catarina emphasises the need for businesses to focus on outcomes rather than the technology itself and provides insights into how organisations can effectively adopt AI while preparing for the future of work.00:00 Introduction to Catarina Miranda and Her Journey03:07 Pandora: The World's Largest Jewellery Brand06:11 The Role of AI in Personalisation at Pandora08:45 AI Literacy and Governance in Organizations11:49 Recent Breakthroughs in AI Technology14:52 Common Misconceptions About AI18:12 The Importance of AI Literacy in Business20:57 Facilitating AI Literacy and Training27:24 Empowering AI Teams through Decentralisation28:34 The Importance of Testing in AI Systems32:07 Prioritising AI Use Cases for Business36:49 Evaluating the Business Impact of AI40:32 Understanding AI's Role in Job Transformation48:40 Lessons from Virtual Reality for AI Adoption52:08 Key Takeaways for Organisations Embracing AIThanks to our sponsor, Data Literacy Academy.Data Literacy Academy is leading the way in transforming enterprise workforces with data literacy across the organisation, through a combination of change management and education. In today's data-centric world, being data literate is no longer a luxury, it's a necessity.If you want successful data product adoption, and to keep driving innovation within your business, you need to start with data literacy first.At Data Literacy Academy, we don't just teach data skills. We empower individuals and teams to think critically, analyse effectively, and make decisions confidently based on data. We're bridging the gap between business and data teams, so they can all work towards aligned outcomes.From those taking their first steps in data literacy to seasoned experts looking to fine-tune their skills, our data experts provide tailored classes for every stage. But it's not just learning tracks that we offer. We embed a deep data culture shift through a transformative change management programme.We take a people-first approach, working closely with your executive team to win the hearts and minds. We know this will drive the company-wide impact that data teams want to achieve.Get in touch and find out how you can unlock the full potential of data in your organisation. Learn more at www.dl-academy.com.

In Episode 30, of Season 5 of Driven by Data: The Podcast, Kyle Winterbottom was joined by Vin Vashishta, CEO & Founder of V Squared and author of best-selling book 'From Data to Profit' where they discuss the evolution of AI and data strategy in businesses. Vin shares insights from his book 'Data to Profit', discussing the importance of data in achieving ROI from AI initiatives, emphasising the need for businesses to transform their strategies and workflows to integrate AI effectively. The conversation also touches on the changing roles of CEOs, the challenges faced by Chief Data and AI Officers, and the impact of AI on job roles and skills in the workforce. Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Background of V Squared AI02:42 The Journey of Writing 'Data to Profit'05:54 Key Factors for AI Success in Businesses08:38 Transformational Strategies for Competitive Advantage11:14 The Importance of Incremental Change14:28 Navigating the AI Landscape: Use Cases and Business Strategy17:22 The Role of C-Level Executives in AI Transformation20:13 Cultural and Strategic Challenges in AI Implementation22:58 The Shift Towards Information Architecture in AI25:56 The Future of AI: Agents and Information Management29:13 The Evolution of Information Architecture30:36 AI's Impact on Data Roles35:20 Shifting Responsibilities in Data Teams36:58 The Value of Customer-Facing Products41:02 The Future of Data Roles and Job Market45:06 The Need for Continuous Reskilling52:46 Navigating Rapid Changes in the Job MarketThanks to our sponsor, Data Literacy Academy.Data Literacy Academy is leading the way in transforming enterprise workforces with data literacy across the organisation, through a combination of change management and education. In today's data-centric world, being data literate is no longer a luxury, it's a necessity.If you want successful data product adoption, and to keep driving innovation within your business, you need to start with data literacy first.At Data Literacy Academy, we don't just teach data skills. We empower individuals and teams to think critically, analyse effectively, and make decisions confidently based on data. We're bridging the gap between business and data teams, so they can all work towards aligned outcomes.From those taking their first steps in data literacy to seasoned experts looking to fine-tune their skills, our data experts provide tailored classes for every stage. But it's not just learning tracks that we offer. We embed a deep data culture shift through a transformative change management programme.We take a people-first approach, working closely with your executive team to win the hearts and minds. We know this will drive the company-wide impact that data teams want to achieve.Get in touch and find out how you can unlock the full potential of data in your organisation. Learn more at www.dl-academy.com.

In Episode 29, of Season 5 of Driven by Data: The Podcast, Kyle Winterbottom was joined by Sam Hancock, Global Head of Data Science at Octopus Energy. Sam shares his unconventional career journey from Capital One to Google and Waymo and ultimately to Octopus Energy, where he focuses on leveraging data to drive the company's mission of accelerating the energy transition. The conversation explores the balance between data-driven decision-making and instinct, the unique culture at Octopus Energy, and the company's innovative approach to sustainability and customer service. Sam and Kyle explore the critical role of data and AI in driving sustainability within the energy sector and they discuss the challenges of integrating data into business practices, the importance of fostering relationships across teams, and the innovations in energy management that can help achieve sustainability targets. The conversation also delves into the complexities of carbon emissions, the electrification of industries, and the potential of smart tariffs to optimize energy usage. Overall, the discussion highlights the need for collaboration and innovative solutions to address the pressing challenges of climate change.Takeaways:Sam Hancock's journey includes roles at Capital One, Waymo, and Octopus Energy.He emphasizes the importance of diverse experiences in shaping his current role.Octopus Energy is focused on accelerating the energy transition.The company is customer-obsessed and aims to disrupt the energy sector.Sam's role allows for entrepreneurial freedom in data strategy.Balancing data-driven decisions with instinct is crucial for innovation.Octopus Energy's culture encourages entrepreneurship and high standards.The company has ambitious targets for customer growth and sustainability.Data is a strategic asset at Octopus, with significant data ingestion capabilities.The tech platform developed by Octopus is designed for the energy sector. Understanding the data challenge is crucial for effective pricing.Data integration should start at the beginning of business processes.Building relationships within teams enhances data-driven decision-making.Electrification is key to achieving net-zero emissions.Smart tariffs can optimize energy usage based on grid demands.AI systems are essential for managing the energy transition.Data centres can be a force for good in sustainability efforts.Zonal pricing could incentivize greener energy usage.Companies need to be transparent about their carbon emissions.Nature-based solutions and carbon capture are vital for sustainability.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Sam Hancock and His Journey01:00 Career Path: From Capital One to Waymo04:30 Transition to Climate Tech and Octopus Energy07:20 Overview of Octopus Energy's Mission and Operations09:48 Sam's Role and Data Strategy at Octopus Energy13:16 Balancing Data and Instinct in Decision Making18:28 The Unique Culture and Vision of Octopus Energy22:12 Leveraging Data as a Strategic Asset25:17 Understanding the Data Challenge28:10 The Role of Data in Sustainability31:31 Innovations in Energy Management37:39 Navigating Carbon Emissions and Sustainability Targets42:15 The Intersection of Data and Energy SolutionsThanks to our sponsor, Data Literacy Academy.Data Literacy Academy is leading the way in transforming enterprise workforces with data literacy across the organisation, through a combination of change management and education. In today's data-centric world, being data literate is no longer a luxury, it's a necessity.If you want successful data product adoption, and to keep driving innovation within your business, you need to start with data literacy first.At Data Literacy Academy, we don't just teach data skills. We empower individuals and teams to think critically, analyse effectively, and make decisions confidently based on data. We're bridging the gap between business and data teams, so they can all work towards aligned outcomes.From those taking their first steps in data literacy to seasoned experts looking to fine-tune their skills, our data experts provide tailored classes for every stage. But it's not just learning tracks that we offer. We embed a deep data culture shift through a transformative change management programme.We take a people-first approach, working closely with your executive team to win the hearts and minds. We know this will drive the company-wide impact that data teams want to achieve.Get in touch and find out how you can unlock the full potential of data in your organisation. Learn more at www.dl-academy.com.

In Episode 28, of Season 5 of Driven by Data: The Podcast, Kyle Winterbottom was joined by McKinley Hyden, Director of Data Value & Strategy at Financial Times, where they discuss McKinley's journey from a background in literature to a career in data, the role of the Financial Times in providing quality journalism, and the importance of data in driving strategic decisions. McKinley shares insights on the challenges of valuing data, the need for cultural change in organisations to embrace data as an asset, and the significance of upskilling in AI. The conversation also touches on the importance of effective communication and knowledge management in data analytics, as well as the future of AI in business. In this conversation, McKinley Hyden and Kyle Winterbottom explore the profound impact of technology, particularly AI, on society, education, and the workforce. They discuss the moral implications of AI, the need for responsible use, and the importance of upskilling to navigate the changing landscape. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of creating effective AI policies to ensure ethical practices and the potential for job transformation in the face of technological advancements.00:00 Introduction to Data and Storytelling02:14 Understanding the Financial Times04:19 The Role of Data Value and Strategy09:33 Upskilling in Data and AI10:44 Valuing Data as an Asset14:12 Overcoming Resistance to Change19:25 Defining Value in Data22:20 Communications and Knowledge Management27:31 The Future of AI in Business28:44 The Impact of Technology on Society30:53 Navigating the Moral Hazards of AI32:44 The Future of Education in an AI World35:19 Job Transformation and the Role of AI41:47 Upskilling for the AI Era44:42 Creating an AI Policy for Responsible UseThanks to our sponsor, Data Literacy Academy.Data Literacy Academy is leading the way in transforming enterprise workforces with data literacy across the organisation, through a combination of change management and education. In today's data-centric world, being data literate is no longer a luxury, it's a necessity.If you want successful data product adoption, and to keep driving innovation within your business, you need to start with data literacy first.At Data Literacy Academy, we don't just teach data skills. We empower individuals and teams to think critically, analyse effectively, and make decisions confidently based on data. We're bridging the gap between business and data teams, so they can all work towards aligned outcomes.From those taking their first steps in data literacy to seasoned experts looking to fine-tune their skills, our data experts provide tailored classes for every stage. But it's not just learning tracks that we offer. We embed a deep data culture shift through a transformative change management programme.We take a people-first approach, working closely with your executive team to win the hearts and minds. We know this will drive the company-wide impact that data teams want to achieve.Get in touch and find out how you can unlock the full potential of data in your organisation. Learn more at www.dl-academy.com.

In Episode 27, of Season 5 of Driven by Data: The Podcast, Kyle Winterbottom was joined by Indhira Mani, Chief Data Officer at RSA, where they discuss the disconnect that often exists between strategy and execution, and what it takes to actually deliver, which includes;Transforming from legacy to modernisation and then innovation.Shaping data as a transformation to move data to the point of decision.Designing a strategy that works in reality to create impact.Failing fast is the best way to execute a strategy.Why building trust through execution will make or break your strategy.Understanding what you can deliver versus what your business wants.Why you should treat your data activity as a 2-way product framework.Why ‘why comes first’.Making practical decisions around organisational readiness.Measuring organisational readiness.The importance of flexibility, practicality and pragmatism.Why you need Executive Commitment and why sponsorship isn’t enough.Testing for that commitment.Why you need clarity of tangible outcomes against goals and objectives.Why we’re not in the business of building lakes and warehouses.Building reusable and scalable products.Identifying what capabilities and skills you need to deliver.Inheriting a team of 20 and growing it to 120.The relationship between operating model and successful transformation.The importance of incorporating change iteratively.Why you shouldn’t aim to change but to win hearts and minds.Why it’s never about ‘what’ but always about ‘why’ and ‘how’.The importance of building curiosity.The 4 transition states of transformation.Trebling the return on investment in the short term and aiming for 10x over the long-term.Thanks to our sponsor, Data Literacy Academy.Data Literacy Academy is leading the way in transforming enterprise workforces with data literacy across the organisation, through a combination of change management and education. In today's data-centric world, being data literate is no longer a luxury, it's a necessity.If you want successful data product adoption, and to keep driving innovation within your business, you need to start with data literacy first.At Data Literacy Academy, we don't just teach data skills. We empower individuals and teams to think critically, analyse effectively, and make decisions confidently based on data. We're bridging the gap between business and data teams, so they can all work towards aligned outcomes.From those taking their first steps in data literacy to seasoned experts looking to fine-tune their skills, our data experts provide tailored classes for every stage. But it's not just learning tracks that we offer. We embed a deep data culture shift through a transformative change management programme.We take a people-first approach, working closely with your executive team to win the hearts and minds. We know this will drive the company-wide impact that data teams want to achieve.Get in touch and find out how you can unlock the full potential of data in your organisation. Learn more at www.dl-academy.com.

In Episode 26, of Season 5 of Driven by Data: The Podcast, Kyle Winterbottom was joined by Steven Pimblett, Chief Data Officer at Rightmove, where they discuss how to create the pull factor and aligning capabilities, operating model and value levers, which includes;Being the 1st CDO at Rightmove. Both a B2B and B2C business model and an expanding service offering.Using data to deliver growth, value and innovation.The relationship between ambassadorship and data & AI being viewed as a value creator. Reporting to the CEO for the 3rd different time.Why reporting line matters but other things matter more. The proximity advantage of having a seat in the boardroom. The relationship between strategic storytelling and attributable value creation. The importance of creating a D&A brand identity.Building capabilities that you can align to value levers.  How data, insight, action is the flow of value creation. The importance of creating partnerships and earning trust. How value is defined, varies from company to company. The reason why misalignment between capability, operating model and value levers occur.The importance of creating a fluid operating model and team structure. Creating unit economics to build a value creation framework. Why complexity and engagement are also considerations beyond value. The importance of creating the ‘pull factor’ in partnership. Failure comes from failure to address the people component of the role. Broadcasting wins to the organisation and why you have to push yourself outside of your comfort zone.The similarities and differences between digital and non-digital organisations.Why CDOs will get more opportunity to enter the boardroom due to Agentic AI. Thanks to our sponsor, Data Literacy Academy.Data Literacy Academy is leading the way in transforming enterprise workforces with data literacy across the organisation, through a combination of change management and education. In today's data-centric world, being data literate is no longer a luxury, it's a necessity.If you want successful data product adoption, and to keep driving innovation within your business, you need to start with data literacy first.At Data Literacy Academy, we don't just teach data skills. We empower individuals and teams to think critically, analyse effectively, and make decisions confidently based on data. We're bridging the gap between business and data teams, so they can all work towards aligned outcomes.From those taking their first steps in data literacy to seasoned experts looking to fine-tune their skills, our data experts provide tailored classes for every stage. But it's not just learning tracks that we offer. We embed a deep data culture shift through a transformative change management programme.We take a people-first approach, working closely with your executive team to win the hearts and minds. We know this will drive the company-wide impact that data teams want to achieve.Get in touch and find out how you can unlock the full potential of data in your organisation. Learn more at www.dl-academy.com.

In Episode 25, of Season 5 of Driven by Data: The Podcast, Kyle Winterbottom is joined by Matt Lovell, Group Director of Data & AI at JD Sports Group, where they discuss the benefits of centralising data & AI leadership, which includes;The importance of building centralised data leadership in complex, multi-brand organisations.Why federated models require a hybrid approach to data strategy and technology governance.Aligning use-case driven transformation to quick wins and long-term data goals.The need for internal audits to uncover hidden technology and data assets.Why data maturity varies across business units and how to turn that into a strength.The evolution of customer behaviour post-COVID and how omnichannel strategies are adapting.How predictive insights help ensure the right product is in the right place at the right time.The value of analysing local trends and geolocation data to inform valuable business decisions.Why strategic data sharing can strengthen partnerships without directly monetising data.How AI is being used to augment human capability and improve operational efficiency.The emergence of agentic AI to proactively detect and resolve issues before escalation.Why teaching prompt literacy is key to unlocking AI’s full potential.How BI and AI are converging to deliver next best action intelligence.The evolving role of data professionals as AI handles more technical execution.Why clean, well-governed data remains essential for enabling effective AI solutions.Thanks to our sponsor, Data Literacy Academy.Data Literacy Academy is leading the way in transforming enterprise workforces with data literacy across the organisation, through a combination of change management and education. In today's data-centric world, being data literate is no longer a luxury, it's a necessity.If you want successful data product adoption, and to keep driving innovation within your business, you need to start with data literacy first.At Data Literacy Academy, we don't just teach data skills. We empower individuals and teams to think critically, analyse effectively, and make decisions confidently based on data. We're bridging the gap between business and data teams, so they can all work towards aligned outcomes.From those taking their first steps in data literacy to seasoned experts looking to fine-tune their skills, our data experts provide tailored classes for every stage. But it's not just learning tracks that we offer. We embed a deep data culture shift through a transformative change management programme.We take a people-first approach, working closely with your executive team to win the hearts and minds. We know this will drive the company-wide impact that data teams want to achieve.Get in touch and find out how you can unlock the full potential of data in your organisation. Learn more at www.dl-academy.com.

In Episode 24, of Season 5 of Driven by Data: The Podcast, Kyle Winterbottom is joined by Angela Pearce, Chief Data Officer at Pension Insurance Corporation Plc, where they discuss how a varied career background and business focused approach allowed her to deliver multi-million pound benefits, which includes;Why working in hospitality early in her life shaped her approach. Coming from an unconventional background.Moving out of Data & Analytics to broaden her skillset.Being the first CDO in an entrepreneurial organisation.The differences of working in large versus smaller organisations. The importance of selling what your team can do for stakeholders. Differences in managing expectations and stakeholders in different environments. Why you need more buy-in, in smaller organisations. Being the top data person in an organisation three times and whether having the title matters.Knowing when you’re ready for a CDO role. Why sales skills are absolutely essential for success as a CDO. Why commercial understanding of business processes is imperative.Building strategy and foundations in a greenfield environment. Why tackling people and culture should be your first port of call. Why imagination and creativity is a super power for data teams. Balancing short-term value added wins with long term strategy.  Why you have to promote the small stuff. The signals that you’re reaching a point of data maturity.Navigating resistance challenges to a data strategy. Why a good data strategy will be controversial. Planting seeds that you grow into addressing difficult conversations. Why the ‘lack of value’ narrative is still so prevalent. Having a business focused approach to realise benefits. Why the CDO shouldn’t be measuring and articulating value. Why business readiness is key to substantiating value.   Building a data culture that aligns to an organisational culture. Why data literacy should be about removing obstacles for people to do what you need them to do. Why you need 99% carrot and 1% stick. Being a female CDO from outside of London. Thanks to our sponsor, Data Literacy Academy.Data Literacy Academy is leading the way in transforming enterprise workforces with data literacy across the organisation, through a combination of change management and education. In today's data-centric world, being data literate is no longer a luxury, it's a necessity.If you want successful data product adoption, and to keep driving innovation within your business, you need to start with data literacy first.At Data Literacy Academy, we don't just teach data skills. We empower individuals and teams to think critically, analyse effectively, and make decisions confidently based on data. We're bridging the gap between business and data teams, so they can all work towards aligned outcomes.From those taking their first steps in data literacy to seasoned experts looking to fine-tune their skills, our data experts provide tailored classes for every stage. But it's not just learning tracks that we offer. We embed a deep data culture shift through a transformative change management programme.We take a people-first approach, working closely with your executive team to win the hearts and minds. We know this will drive the company-wide impact that data teams want to achieve.Get in touch and find out how you can unlock the full potential of data in your organisation. Learn more at www.dl-academy.com.

In Episode 23, of Season 5 of Driven by Data: The Podcast, Kyle Winterbottom is joined by Angela Le Mathon, Vice President; People Data & Analytics at GSK, where they discuss the role of HR in an Agentic AI enabled world and it's implications on the workforce, which includes;Differences between applying analytics in HR versus other domains. Why people analytics is usually an afterthought.Why other business areas get more funding for analytics work. How large companies are using data and analytics to manage their workforce.Why people and skills can’t be measured equally.The key metrics that organisations expect from people analytics.Why the sophistication of GenAI has helped HR and people analytics.The impact that AI is likely to have on the workforce. The rise of the digital workforce. How humans and agents will co-exist.Why execs will have to change the way they manage their organisation. Why HR has the opportunity to reinvent itself.Why workforce planning and org design will be critical to success in an Agentic AI world. How the roles undertaken by humans will change. Why skills will become less important.Why L&D budgets will reduce as a by-product of agents. Why humans will be forced to step up their game. The two waves of Agentic Ai implications on the workforce. Figuring out what humans do with the extra time that they’ll have. What organisations need to do to be Agentic AI ready.Why the relationship between HR and Technology will need to transform. Why People Analytics will become part of the core Data Leadership team. Figuring out how ‘at risk’ you’ll be. Navigating DEI though the lens of people/HR data and analytics. The future of HR in an AI world.Thanks to our sponsor, Data Literacy Academy.Data Literacy Academy is leading the way in transforming enterprise workforces with data literacy across the organisation, through a combination of change management and education. In today's data-centric world, being data literate is no longer a luxury, it's a necessity.If you want successful data product adoption, and to keep driving innovation within your business, you need to start with data literacy first.At Data Literacy Academy, we don't just teach data skills. We empower individuals and teams to think critically, analyse effectively, and make decisions confidently based on data. We're bridging the gap between business and data teams, so they can all work towards aligned outcomes.From those taking their first steps in data literacy to seasoned experts looking to fine-tune their skills, our data experts provide tailored classes for every stage. But it's not just learning tracks that we offer. We embed a deep data culture shift through a transformative change management programme.We take a people-first approach, working closely with your executive team to win the hearts and minds. We know this will drive the company-wide impact that data teams want to achieve.Get in touch and find out how you can unlock the full potential of data in your organisation. Learn more at www.dl-academy.com.