LEAD WITH DATA Podcast

HR doesn’t lose influence because it lacks insight.It loses influence because it talks in the wrong language.In this episode of Lead With Data, we speak to a senior business executive who didn’t come from a data background like our usual guests but fundamentally changed her seat at the table by doing one thing differently: connecting workforce data directly to revenue, margin and productivity.No dashboards for show. Just data translated into decisions executives actually care about.This conversation shows what happens when people metrics stop being “HR numbers” and start being business performance indicators.If you work in HR, people and culture or any function that wants to influence outcomes, not just report activity, this one is worth your time.Key takeawaysPeople data is business performance data, not HR reportingVacancies aren’t an HR problem, they’re delayed revenueIf you can’t link initiatives to margin or productivity, they won’t get tractionInfluence comes from translation, not more dashboards

In this episode, Nick Jameson shares his journey from aerospace engineering and defence to data leadership. He discusses why the fail fast mindset is important for Data Innovation, how high-stakes environments influence building resilient data platforms, the importance of problem-solving, stakeholder engagement and managing technical debt. Gain insights into effective leadership, balancing innovation with foundational stability and the future of data engineering and analytics.Data Engineering, Data Leadership, High-Stakes Environments, Data Platforms, Analytics, Tech Debt, Leadership, AI, Data StrategyKey topics:Transferable skills from aerospace to dataBuilding resilient and scalable data platformsManaging technical debt and platform maturityLeadership principles in data teamsThe impact of AI and emerging technologiesChapters00:00 Embracing Opportunities and Learning from Failure02:50 Transitioning from Aerospace to Data Analytics05:58 Core Principles from High-Stakes Engineering08:33 Decision-Making Under Pressure11:41 Balancing Processes and Flexibility in Data Analytics14:36 Managing Expectations and Prioritization17:16 Building Robust Data Platforms for Future Challenges20:04 The Interplay of Data Engineering and Advanced Analytics22:25 Building Robust Data Pipelines23:23 The Risks of Premature Analytics25:46 Challenging Assumptions in Data Teams27:16 Balancing Investments in Data Tools28:43 Leadership Lessons from Engineering31:03 Managing Stress in Leadership34:38 Advice for Nonlinear Moves into Data36:07 Building a Modern Data Platform38:26 Investing in People as a Leader40:15 The Future of Data Engineering and AnalyticsResourcesExperian Data SolutionsNick Jameson on LinkedIn

Joining me in this week’s episode is Pushkar Mishra, who brings sharp insights into the powerful connection between data risk, governance and organisational transformation. Pushkar shares why neglecting data quality can be costly, how engaging stakeholders effectively can showcase the true business value of data governance and the pivotal role data champions play in driving change. We also dive into the ethical implications of AI and the emerging risks shaping the future of data management. This episode is packed with actionable insights for leaders looking to turn data governance into a strategic advantage that fuels growth and innovation.Key topics we discuss include:The Interconnection of Transformation and Data RiskChallenges in Perception of Data GovernanceThe Cost of Ignoring Data GovernanceExecution Challenges in Data Governance StrategiesUnderstanding Business Value in Data GovernanceFuture Data Risks and Ethical Considerations

In this episode, I sit down with Lucas Dahan to unravel the complexities of building and retaining effective data teams. We tackle the challenges of high staff turnover and explore how shifting from a support to a product mindset can transform team dynamics. Lucas shares his insights from working across different sizes of organisations, from scale-ups to large corporates, emphasising that no matter how big or small, you can still transform your teams. Join us for a conversation that might just get you to rethink and reshape your approach to running your data teams.Key Topics:The Structure and Challenges of Data TeamsThe Shift from Support to Product TeamsImplementing Change in Large OrganizationsTransforming Engineering MindsetsShifting from Reporting to Problem SolvingFostering Ownership and AccountabilityManaging Diverse Skill SetsEmpowering Team Members for Ownership

In this episode, I sit down with Danny Sittrop, GM of Advanced Analytics, and we talk about his unconventional journey from engineering to data leadership. Our conversation gets into how curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to fail forward shaped his career and how flow, focus and empathy drive impact in the analytics space. Whether you're a technical expert or a business professional, this candid conversation offers insights into building a meaningful career in data providing reassurance and tips to those thinking about a pivot to analytics or those who may be facing some of these hurdles.

In this episode, I sit down with Simon Kriss, the owner and Chief AI Officer of a boutique advisory firm that provides guidance to modern businesses wanting to grow their understanding of AI while ensuring it is done ethically and safely. Our discussion gets into the fascinating intersection of technology and humanity, exploring how artificial intelligence is reshaping our world while maintaining a human touch. Join us as we uncover stories of AI-driven innovations that prioritise empathy, creativity, and human connection. From healthcare to education, discover how AI is enhancing our lives by understanding and responding to our unique needs. Tune in to explore the heartwarming and thought-provoking aspects of AI that remind us of the power of human ingenuity.

In this week’s episode, Pamela Moodley joins us to share her journey from a Big 4 firm to modern consulting firm Slalom, along with her perspective on how data and AI are becoming increasingly embedded in business strategy. She also reflects on the role an external partner can play in supporting this shift. We explore the challenges organisations face in translating technical capability into measurable outcomes, the importance of pragmatic governance, and how engaging a consulting partner at any stage of the journey can help build internal capability over time. Pamela emphasises the need to align technology investment with business goals, the strategic value of pilot projects, and we touch on how AI is reshaping decision-making across industries. This episode is full of practical insights for data professionals and business leaders looking to drive real impact, improve alignment, and navigate the rapidly evolving world of enterprise technology.

In this week’s episode, Simon Spencer and Lisa Schutz join to unpack the concept of Sovereign AI and what it means for Australia’s future. The conversation explores the cultural, ethical, and economic implications of AI, highlighting the importance of building and localising AI capabilities within Australia. Simon and Lisa stress the risks of outsourcing AI development and the critical role of human oversight in shaping responsible AI systems. They also reflect on how government and industry can collaborate to drive innovation while safeguarding national interests. This episode offers timely insights for leaders and technologists navigating the complex landscape of AI sovereignty and its impact on Australia's digital future.

In this week’s episode, Dave Jukes a Digital Analytics Manager joins to share his journey from marketing to data analytics and reflect on the evolving role of data teams in modern organisations. The conversation delves into the power of storytelling with data, the importance of strong stakeholder engagement, and how data can elevate the customer experience. Dave emphasises the need for data teams to shift from being seen as executional support to becoming strategic business partners. This episode offers actionable insights for data professionals looking to overcome common roadblocks and navigate the future of digital analytics in the age of AI.

In this week’s episode, Simone Occulate, a seasoned data management leader, joins to discuss the complexities of data governance and cross-department collaboration. Simone shares her extensive experience in the field, emphasising the importance of identifying data pain points and fostering strong relationships across teams. She reflects on common misconceptions about data governance, the evolving role of data professionals in the age of AI, and the necessity of building a data-driven culture. She highlights the critical need for effective communication and compliance awareness, offering valuable insights for organisations striving to strengthen their data governance strategies.00:00 Introduction to Data Governance and Collaboration02:45 The Importance of Data Governance03.32 Misconceptions About Data Governance08.35 Driving Collaboration in Data Governance11.20 Building Relationships for Effective Data Governance17.56 Practical Examples of Collaboration25.27 Will AI change the role of Data Governance

Joining me in this week’s episode is Luis Harringhton, an expert in data leadership with extensive experience in building scalable and adaptable data environments. In this episode, Luis discusses the importance of establishing strong data foundations and the significant costs of poor data strategies. He emphasises the critical role of change management in ensuring successful data initiatives.Our conversation explores the challenges organisations face in balancing quick wins with long-term scalability while navigating rapidly changing technologies. Luis shares valuable insights from his career, offering advice for leaders looking to build data environments that are both flexible and future-proof. This episode provides actionable guidance for organisations striving to create resilient and effective data strategies.00:00 Building Scalable Data Environments08:56 The Cost of Poor Data Foundations14:27 The Importance of Change Management19:20 Successful Data Strategies in Action23:18 Navigating Technology Changes28:27 Balancing Quick Results with Long-Term Goals

On this weeks episode, I was joined by Ben Pattison, an experienced executive data leader with a diverse career spanning multiple industries, including financial services, manufacturing, transportation, and, most recently, the travel sector. With extensive expertise in data strategy, analytics, and governance, Ben has a proven track record of driving data-driven decision-making, scaling advanced analytics, and delivering commercial value across complex organisations. During our discussion, he shared his journey and insights from leading data initiatives across various sectors. We delve into the challenges and opportunities of applying data strategies in diverse industries, such as overcoming the complexities of legacy systems and scaling advanced analytics. Ben also highlights the importance of balancing federated and centralised data models while identifying the key factors for successful data adoption. What stood out most in our conversation was his practical approach—emphasising the value of not overcomplicating processes or reinventing the wheel, but instead embracing the existing environment and finding ways to drive value within embedded data systems.

Lead with Data Podcast – Season 4 - Episode 22 – “TheEvolving Data Scientist in an AI-Driven World”A question that comes up often is whether the role of a Data Scientist is changing or disappearing in the age of AI. To unpack this, I’m excited to welcome Dr. Maruf Hossain, one of the Global Top 100 Innovators in Data and Analytics 2024. As a pioneering leader in AI and data science in Australia, Dr. Hossain has delivered tangible business value across startups,enterprises, consulting firms, and government agencies. With a PhD in AI from The University of Melbourne, a master’s in software engineering, and an Honours in Mathematics, he’s more than qualified to discuss this topic. In this episode, Dr. Maruf Hossain explores the evolving role of the data scientist in an AI-driven world, discussing key shifts in skills, collaboration, and the impact of automation and no-code tools. Tune in to hear insights on the future of data science and how professionals can stay ahead of emerging trends and technologies.