Data & AI Mastery

Cambridge Spark
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In the age of rapid technological change, how can you harness the power of data and AI to transform your business? Welcome to Data & AI Mastery, the podcast where cutting-edge insights meet practical strategies for success. Hosted by Dr Raoul-Gabriel Urma, founder of Cambridge Spark, this show dives deep into how leading organisations across the globe are using data & AI to revolutionise operations, streamline efficiency, and drive innovation. Each episode features conversations with senior leaders, revealing their career stories and real-world case studies and actionable takeaways that you can apply, whether you're climbing the career ladder or already in the C-suite. From AI-driven solutions to practical tips for navigating your data transformation journey, Data & AI Mastery will equip you with the tools to thrive in the AI era. Stay ahead, stay inspired, and unlock your potential with Data & AI Mastery: your ultimate guide to mastering data and AI for business. This feed is also home to Inside the Algorithm, our sister show hosted by Chief AI Officer Dr Jeremy Bradley, featuring in-depth conversations with the researchers and technical experts working at the frontier of artificial intelligence. New episodes from both shows drop fortnightly, on alternate weeks. Follow now so you never miss an episode from either show. 🎙️

  1. DAIM: Inside The Algorithm | Hybrid Simulation, Model Reuse and AI in NHS Planning

    1 DAY AGO

    DAIM: Inside The Algorithm | Hybrid Simulation, Model Reuse and AI in NHS Planning

    👉 Discover how Cambridge Spark helps organisations build the data and AI capabilities needed to turn strategy into measurable impact: cambridgespark.com Planning healthcare at scale is one of the most consequential challenges facing the NHS. In this inaugural episode of our new show, Inside The Algorithm, Cambridge Spark’s Chief AI Officer, Dr Jeremy Bradley, is joined by Dr Lucy Morgan, Head of Simulation at the NHS Strategy Unit, to explore how simulation modelling and AI are being used to tackle that challenge head-on. Lucy led the development of a hybrid simulation model for renal replacement therapy, which began with the Midlands Kidney Network and is now being rolled out nationally. She breaks down how the model works, combining system dynamics with discrete event simulation to project future demand and model patient pathways through dialysis and transplant. The conversation moves into the harder questions: how do you validate a model in a live healthcare environment, how do you rebuild trust with new organisations who weren't part of the original build, and where does AI fit into making models more portable and reproducible? Lucy also shares her current research interest in using AI agents to help NHS staff query and interrogate analytical models directly, without needing deep modelling expertise themselves. A rich, technically substantive episode for anyone working at the intersection of AI, simulation and real-world deployment. Follow Data & AI Mastery so you never miss a future episode of Inside The Algorithm. Liked this episode? Why not listen to the conversation Dr Raoul Gabriel Urma had with Ming Tang from the NHS on the Data & AI Mastery podcast:  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/transforming-healthcare-through-data-ai-human-centred/id1779783413?i=1000736381325 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/27wqHT0dnRMwKMedj2uoTw?si=5aabd4015dfa425d YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JERGmZUumvA Glossary Terms Model reproducibility: the ability to obtain consistent computational results using the same input data, code, and environment Neural Network: a method in artificial intelligence that teaches computers to process data in a way that is inspired by the human brain Sequential Hybrid Simulation Model: a modeling approach that combines two or more distinct simulation paradigms (such as System Dynamics, Discrete-Event Simulation, or Agent-Based Simulation) by running them in a specific order, where the output of the first model acts as the input for the next System Dynamics: a computer-aided modeling methodology used to understand, analyse, and manage complex, dynamic systems over time Stock-flow System: a foundational system dynamics modelling concept mapping how quantities (stocks) accumulate over time, influenced by rates of change (flows) Chapter Markers (00:00) - Opening: The case for AI-assisted simulation in the NHS (02:11) - About the NHS Strategy Unit and the backwards consultancy model (05:04) - Tackling NHS waiting lists with queuing theory (10:26) - Complexity of scheduling: theatre capacity, rotas and prioritisation (13:42) - Introducing the renal replacement therapy planning model (18:32) - Data sources, model calibration and validation (23:00) - Rolling the model out nationally: trust, workshops and participative modelling (26:47) - A call to the community: sharing best practices in model reproducibility Useful Links Connect with Dr Lucy Morgan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucy-morgan-97072041/ For more AI insights follow Jeremy on LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-bradley Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programmes at https://www.cambridgespark.com

    29 min
  2. From Cybersecurity to AI Director: Sarah Self on Leading Transformation at Aviva

    29 APR

    From Cybersecurity to AI Director: Sarah Self on Leading Transformation at Aviva

    👉 Discover how Cambridge Spark helps organisations build the data and AI capabilities needed to turn strategy into measurable impact: cambridgespark.com On this week's episode of Data & AI Mastery, Dr Raoul-Gabriel Urma is joined by Sarah Self, AI Director at Aviva. Sarah brings a rare dual perspective to the conversation of data and AI, having spent nearly a decade in cybersecurity before moving into AI leadership. In this episode, she shares how those two disciplines share the same foundations: people, process and technology, and why that framework is central to delivering responsible, scalable AI. Sarah discusses how Aviva built its own internal AI platform to embed guardrails from day one and why she views risk management and customer value not as a trade-off but as a single, unified objective. She also makes a compelling case for democratising AI across the workforce, using the term "organ rejection" to describe what happens when people are left behind in a transformation. The episode closes with two standout production use cases: a claims summarisation solution that cut customer hold times by over 50% and a medical underwriting tool delivering 99% accuracy, both of which drive efficiency and customer satisfaction simultaneously. Follow Data and AI Mastery on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or YouTube so you never miss an episode. Chapter Markers (00:00) - Opening Insight: Experimentation With Purpose (02:44) - The Parallels Between Cybersecurity and AI (05:46) - Balancing Risk and Customer Outcomes at Aviva (10:29) - Democratising AI: Why Workforce Inclusion Matters (14:28) - Identifying High-Value AI Use Cases (17:27) - Balancing Experimentation With Production: The Portfolio Approach (20:16) - Remaining Challenges and Keeping Perspective on the Hype (23:48) - Quickfire Round: Sarah's AI Aha Moment (25:21) - Raoul’s Reflections Useful Links Connect with Sarah Self on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-self-ba0b0642/ Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raoulurma/ Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programmes at https://www.cambridgespark.com

    28 min
  3. Data & AI Mastery Presents: Inside the Algorithm | A New Show from Cambridge Spark

    SEASON 2 TRAILER

    Data & AI Mastery Presents: Inside the Algorithm | A New Show from Cambridge Spark

    👉 Discover how Cambridge Spark helps organisations build the data and AI capabilities needed to turn strategy into measurable impact: cambridgespark.com Most AI commentary stops at the headline. This show starts where that ends. Welcome to Inside the Algorithm, a brand new podcast from Cambridge Spark, hosted by Chief AI Officer Dr Jeremy Bradley. Each episode, Jeremy sits down with leading researchers, data scientists and technical experts to get into the science, the breakthroughs and the ideas shaping the future of AI. No trend commentary. No surface-level takes. Just rigorous, substantive thinking made accessible to the people who need it most. Inside the Algorithm publishes fortnightly in this feed, alternating with Data & AI Mastery, the show for AI strategy, leadership and business transformation. If you want to go deeper into the science driving artificial intelligence forward, hit follow now. Episode one drops 6th May. Stay curious. Stay rigorous. Stay ahead of the algorithm. Useful Links For more AI insights follow Jeremy on LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-bradley Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programmes at https://www.cambridgespark.com

    1 min
  4. The Future of Education: Mark Bramwell, CDIO at Oxford Said Business School

    15 APR

    The Future of Education: Mark Bramwell, CDIO at Oxford Said Business School

    👉 Discover how Cambridge Spark helps organisations build the data and AI capabilities needed to turn strategy into measurable impact: cambridgespark.com On this week's episode of Data & AI Mastery, Mark Bramwell, Chief Digital and Information Officer at Oxford Said Business School, joins Dr Raoul-Gabriel Urma to share how one of the world's oldest universities is navigating one of its biggest challenges: deploying AI across a complex, multi-persona institution while simultaneously preparing students for an AI-driven workforce. Mark unpacks Oxford's deliberate portfolio approach to AI tools, why they moved from per-user licensing to consumption-based models, and how they are measuring real business outcomes rather than treating AI as something categorically different from the rest of the tech stack. From a faculty-led AI digital avatar teaching courses in any language, 24/7, to an AI assistant enhancing the MBA student experience, this conversation is grounded in genuine implementation rather than theory. If you lead a complex organisation grappling with AI adoption, governance, and change management at scale, this episode is essential listening. Follow Data and AI Mastery on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or YouTube so you never miss an episode. Chapter Markers (00:00) - Opening Insight: Treating AI Like Any Other Tool (04:02) - Driving Innovation in a Centuries-Old Institution (05:24) - Oxford's AI Strategy: The Portfolio Approach (09:52) - Risks and Lessons Learned from the Consumption Model (12:03) - Preparing Students for an AI-Driven Workforce (17:44) - Governing AI Adoption at Scale (22:58) - Change Adoption and Getting Everyone on the Journey (25:51) - The Future of AI in Higher Education (27:44) - Rapid-Fire Personal Questions (30:06) - Raoul's Key Takeaways Useful Links Connect with Mark Bramwell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-bramwell-fbcs-308b4913/ Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raoulurma/ Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programmes at https://www.cambridgespark.com

    32 min
  5. Redefining Data ROI in Banking: Luke Pearce, Chief Data and AI Officer, Santander UK

    1 APR

    Redefining Data ROI in Banking: Luke Pearce, Chief Data and AI Officer, Santander UK

    👉 Discover how Cambridge Spark helps organisations build the data and AI capabilities needed to turn strategy into measurable impact: cambridgespark.com On this week's episode of Data & AI Mastery, Luke Pearce, Chief Data and AI Officer at Santander UK, joins Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma to discuss what it actually takes to drive meaningful AI adoption inside one of the UK's largest banks. Luke shares how Santander UK moved beyond a governance-heavy data culture to build genuine C-suite and board-level sponsorship for AI. He challenges the conventional cost-saving narrative around AI ROI, making the case for customer and colleague delight as the more powerful North Star. The conversation covers how Santander UK structured its AI rollout using a domain-based approach, why cross-functional teams are critical to success, and how to have productive governance conversations with a board that is both excited and cautious about AI. Luke also offers a genuinely contrarian view on the future of the CDO role and what he would change about the industry if he could. A practical and candid episode for any senior data or AI leader navigating organisational complexity. Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or YouTube so you never miss an episode. Chapter Markers (00:00) - Introduction and Luke Pearce's Career Journey (04:51) - How Industry Experience Shapes Data Expectations (07:24) - Organisational Structures That Support Data and AI (10:19) - Redefining AI ROI Beyond Cost Reduction (14:13) - Board and C-Suite Expectations: Navigating the Difference (18:25) - Lessons for Organisations Just Starting Their AI Journey (22:29) - Picking the Right Domains and Managing AI Momentum (26:21) - Quickfire Round: Contrarian Views and Personal Insights (30:13) - Episode Wrap-Up and Key Takeaways Useful Links Connect with Luke Pearce on LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/luke-pearce-23121522 Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raoulurma/ Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programmes at https://www.cambridgespark.com

    32 min
  6. Building an AI Strategy at Scale with Miryem Salah, Director Digital Data & Transformation at VodafoneThree

    18 MAR

    Building an AI Strategy at Scale with Miryem Salah, Director Digital Data & Transformation at VodafoneThree

    👉 Discover how Cambridge Spark helps organisations build the data and AI capabilities needed to turn strategy into measurable impact: cambridgespark.com On this week's episode of Data & AI Mastery, Miryem Salah, Director of Digital, Data and Transformation at VodafoneThree, joins Raoul Gabriel-Urma to share the story behind one of the most ambitious AI strategies in UK telecoms. Miryem breaks down how her team approached building a forward-looking AI strategy from first principles, why most organisations fall into the FOMO trap, and how VodafoneThree is thinking about the balance between humans and AI in a post-merger business. She also shares her thinking on governed agility, the importance of data literacy at every level of leadership, and why getting foundations right matters more than chasing the next shiny tool. The conversation also touches on diversity in data and tech, Miryem's Women in Data network spanning 100,000 employees across VodafoneThree; and her genuine excitement about the rise of physical AI. A frank, experience-led conversation for senior data and AI leaders navigating large-scale transformation. Be sure to follow Data & AI Mastery wherever you listen to your podcasts to never miss an episode.  Chapter Markers (00:00) - Introduction and Miryem's role at VodafoneThree (02:00) - Inside the Vodafone and Three UK merger  (06:00) - Misconceptions about data teams and data ownership  (10:00) - Operating model, human versus AI, and the sell-build-run framework  (15:00) - Measuring success in early-stage AI deployment  (19:00) - Risk management and when to put AI in front of customers  (24:00) - Quickfire round: diversity, STEM, music and the magic wand question  (27:00) - Raoul on AI and the future of education  (28:30) - Key takeaways Useful Links Connect with Miryem Salah on LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/miryem-salah-7a3ba633  Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raoulurma/ Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programmes at https://www.cambridgespark.com

    30 min
  7. Reimagining Data for Impact — Indhira Mani, Chief Data Officer at Intact Insurance UK

    4 MAR

    Reimagining Data for Impact — Indhira Mani, Chief Data Officer at Intact Insurance UK

    👉 Discover how Cambridge Spark helps organisations build the data and AI capabilities needed to turn strategy into measurable impact: cambridgespark.com In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, host Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma sits down with Indhira Mani, Chief Data Officer at Intact Insurance UK, to explore what it really takes to transform a legacy organisation into a data-driven, AI-enabled business. Indhira shares her journey from embracing intellectual challenges to leading a full-scale data transformation, not by starting with technology, but by starting with people. Together, they unpack how to move data from a back-office function to a strategic lever, how to build cross-functional squads, and why winning hearts and minds is the hardest and most rewarding part of transformation. Listeners will learn why data transformation must begin with culture, trust, and relationships; why giving more data doesn’t always lead to better decisions; and how AI should augment human intelligence, not replace it. This episode is essential listening for CDOs, CIOs, transformation leaders, and executives navigating cultural change in complex, regulated industries. Be sure to follow Data & AI Mastery wherever you listen to your podcasts to never miss an episode.  Chapter Markers (02:00) — Indhira’s journey to Chief Data Officer (05:00) — Moving data from back-office to strategic lever (10:00) — The rewards of transformation (16:30) — Making data usable, not perfect (19:00) — Decision paralysis and too much data (23:00) — Raoul’s reflections  Useful Links Connect with Indhira on LinkedIn Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programmes at cambridgespark.com

    25 min
  8. AI, Regulation, and Trust: Using Data Science to Protect Consumers at Scale — Edmund Towers, Head of Advanced Analytics & Data Science Units at the FCA

    18 FEB

    AI, Regulation, and Trust: Using Data Science to Protect Consumers at Scale — Edmund Towers, Head of Advanced Analytics & Data Science Units at the FCA

    👉 Discover how Cambridge Spark helps organisations build the data and AI capabilities needed to deliver responsible, real-world impact: cambridgespark.com In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, host Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma is joined by Edmund Towers, Head of Advanced Analytics & Data Science Units at the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), to explore how data science and AI are being used to protect consumers, fight financial crime, and enable safe innovation across financial services. Ed leads advanced analytics and data science across the FCA, working at the intersection of technology, regulation, and public good. From identifying scams and money laundering to shaping the UK’s regulatory approach to AI, his work demonstrates how responsible use of data and AI can deliver real societal impact at scale. Together, Raoul and Edmund unpack how regulators can both enable innovation and protect consumers, why outcomes-based regulation matters, and how initiatives like AI Live Testing are helping firms move from proof-of-concept to safe deployment. This episode is essential listening for data and AI leaders, compliance and risk professionals, policymakers, and executives who want to understand how AI can be used responsibly to deliver trust, safety, and innovation, not just efficiency. Be sure to follow Data & AI Mastery wherever you listen to your podcasts to never miss an episode. Chapter Markers (01:40) — Edmund Towers’ role at the FCA (04:20) — Why the FCA must both regulate and innovate (08:40) — Introducing the FCA’s AI Live Testing initiative (12:40) — FCA strategic priorities: financial crime, consumers, innovation (16:00) — Synthetic data and collaboration with the Alan Turing Institute (19:20) — Reducing friction in complex financial decisions (22:30) — Quick-fire round: favourite language, subjects, and music (23:30) — Raoul’s reflections on regulation, innovation, and collaboration Useful Links Connect with Edmund on LinkedIn Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programmes at cambridgespark.com

    25 min
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About

In the age of rapid technological change, how can you harness the power of data and AI to transform your business? Welcome to Data & AI Mastery, the podcast where cutting-edge insights meet practical strategies for success. Hosted by Dr Raoul-Gabriel Urma, founder of Cambridge Spark, this show dives deep into how leading organisations across the globe are using data & AI to revolutionise operations, streamline efficiency, and drive innovation. Each episode features conversations with senior leaders, revealing their career stories and real-world case studies and actionable takeaways that you can apply, whether you're climbing the career ladder or already in the C-suite. From AI-driven solutions to practical tips for navigating your data transformation journey, Data & AI Mastery will equip you with the tools to thrive in the AI era. Stay ahead, stay inspired, and unlock your potential with Data & AI Mastery: your ultimate guide to mastering data and AI for business. This feed is also home to Inside the Algorithm, our sister show hosted by Chief AI Officer Dr Jeremy Bradley, featuring in-depth conversations with the researchers and technical experts working at the frontier of artificial intelligence. New episodes from both shows drop fortnightly, on alternate weeks. Follow now so you never miss an episode from either show. 🎙️

Information

  • Creator
    Cambridge Spark
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    43
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024 Cambridge Spark
  • Show Website
    Data & AI Mastery

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