Data & AI Mastery

Cambridge Spark
  • 4.9 (22)
  • TECH NEWS
  • UPDATED FORTNIGHTLY

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.

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

    4 DAYS AGO

    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
  2. 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
  3. 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
  4. 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
  5. From Data Scientist to the C-Suite: Foundations, ROI, and Leading AI at Scale — Kevin Cassar, Chief Data & AI Officer at TalkTalk

    4 FEB

    From Data Scientist to the C-Suite: Foundations, ROI, and Leading AI at Scale — Kevin Cassar, Chief Data & AI Officer at TalkTalk

    👉 Discover how Cambridge Spark helps organisations build the data and AI capabilities leaders need to drive real business impact: cambridgespark.com In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, host Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma is joined by Kevin Cassar, Chief Data & AI Officer at TalkTalk, to explore what it truly takes to lead data and AI transformation from the ground up, and from the boardroom down. Kevin’s journey is a rare one. Starting as a data scientist, completing a Level 7 Data Science & AI apprenticeship, and rising to the C-suite, he brings a uniquely grounded perspective on leadership, ROI, foundations, and people-centred transformation. Together, they unpack how high-performing data teams are built, how AI initiatives win executive buy-in, and why getting the foundations right is the difference between sustainable impact and expensive tech debt. Listeners will learn the three critical skills every Chief Data & AI Officer needs today, what “strong foundations” really mean and why continuous learning and upskilling are non-negotiable in fast-moving AI environments. This episode is packed with practical guidance for CIOs, CDOs, AI leaders, and aspiring executives who want to scale AI responsibly, deliver ROI, and build teams that can keep learning as the business evolves. Be sure to follow Data & AI Mastery wherever you listen to your podcasts to never miss an episode. Chapter Markers: (01:40) — Kevin Cassar’s career journey from data scientist to C-suite (04:50) — Getting the foundations right to accelerate later (09:10) — Translating AI work into business value (14:00) — Better customer outcomes and operational efficiency (18:40) — Bringing the business along every sprint (22:20) — Lessons from Kevin’s Level 7 apprenticeship journey (28:40) — Measuring maturity: how to show progress to the CEO (31:40) — Quick-fire round: contrarian views on AI (36:00) — Raoul’s reflections: pitching AI, foundations, and balance Useful Links: Connect with Kevin on LinkedIn Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programmes at cambridgespark.com

    28 min
  6. Measuring What Matters: How to Drive Real AI Transformation — Conny Ploth, VP Global AI Transformation

    21 JAN

    Measuring What Matters: How to Drive Real AI Transformation — Conny Ploth, VP Global AI Transformation

    Discover how Cambridge Spark helps organisations build the data and AI capabilities needed to deliver measurable business impact: cambridgespark.com In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, host Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma is joined by Conny Ploth, VP of Global AI Transformation in the financial services sector, to unpack what it really takes to deliver measurable, people-first AI transformation in complex, regulated organisations. Conny brings a unique perspective shaped by a career spanning microfinance, consulting, ESG, and large-scale financial institutions. Her message is clear: if you can’t measure it, don’t start it and AI transformation only succeeds when data, people, and processes move together. Together, they explore how leaders can move beyond AI hype and focus on impact, adoption, and sustainable value creation. Listeners will learn why measurement and baselines are non-negotiable before starting any AI initiative, how to balance quick wins (task automation) with longer-term transformational bets and how legacy organisations can compete with AI-native startups by creating safe spaces for experimentation. This episode is packed with practical guidance for CIOs, transformation leaders, and executives who want AI to deliver real outcomes — not just prototypes. Be sure to follow Data & AI Mastery wherever you listen to your podcasts to never miss an episode. Chapter Markers: (01:40) — Conny Ploth’s career journey into AI leadership (06:00) — The three AI value levers: efficiency, growth, experience (10:50) — Governance, guardrails, and balancing access with protection (14:30) — Setting the AI vision and aligning with business strategy (18:40) — Identifying quick wins vs long-term strategic initiatives (24:00) — Running AI as a portfolio of initiatives (28:00) — Upskilling at scale: why experience beats traditional training (33:50) — Quick-fire round: fitness, routines, and personal habits (35:40) — Raoul’s closing reflections: people, process, and purpose Useful Links: Connect with Conny on LinkedIn Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programmes at cambridgespark.com

    38 min
  7. Curiosity, Trust, and Building AI at Scale — Sudhish Mohan, Group CIO & CTO at TransUnion

    7 JAN

    Curiosity, Trust, and Building AI at Scale — Sudhish Mohan, Group CIO & CTO at TransUnion

    Learn how Cambridge Spark helps organisations build the data and AI skills leaders need to stay relevant in a fast-moving world: cambridgespark.com In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, host Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma is joined by Sudhish Mohan, Group CIO & CTO UK and Europe at TransUnion, to explore what it really takes to lead data and AI transformation in a highly regulated, high-impact industry. Sudhish shares his perspective on leading technology and analytics across the credit ecosystem, where decisions affect banks, businesses, and millions of consumers, and why curiosity, judgment, and long-term thinking matter more than ever as AI adoption accelerates. From developer productivity and fraud detection to data governance and cybersecurity, this conversation cuts through the hype to reveal what AI transformation looks like in practice, not in theory. Listeners will learn why curiosity is the most important leadership trait in the age of AI, how TransUnion is approaching AI adoption as a slow, deliberate evolution, not a silver bullet, the difference between more data and better data, and what truly makes a strong data environment Whether you’re a CIO, data leader, or executive navigating AI investment decisions, this episode offers grounded, experience-led insights into building resilient, responsible data and AI capabilities at scale. Be sure to follow Data & AI Mastery wherever you listen to your podcasts to never miss an episode.  Chapter Markers: (01:40) — Sudhish Mohan’s role at TransUnion and its real-world impact (06:45) — Why most AI initiatives fail to deliver expected value (10:00) — AI across three buckets: risk, operations, and customer value (12:30) — Using GenAI to improve service desk and operational workflows (17:00) — What makes a great data environment (21:30) — Why curiosity matters more than qualifications (26:30) — Quick-fire round: favourite subject and learning habits (28:00) — Raoul’s reflections: cybersecurity, talent, and hybrid cloud Useful Links: Connect with Sudhish on LinkedIn Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programmes at cambridgespark.com

    31 min
  8. Trust, Data, and Decision-Making Beyond Earth — Andrew Feustel, Former NASA Astronaut

    24/12/2025

    Trust, Data, and Decision-Making Beyond Earth — Andrew Feustel, Former NASA Astronaut

    Discover how Cambridge Spark helps leaders and teams build the data and AI skills needed to operate in high-stakes, real-world environments: cambridgespark.com In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, host Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma is joined by Andrew Feustel, former NASA astronaut, ISS Commander, and veteran of three space missions. Andrew has spent over two decades at NASA, flying on the Space Shuttle, leading missions aboard the International Space Station, and performing complex spacewalks to repair critical infrastructure like the Hubble Space Telescope. In this conversation, he shares a rare, human perspective on decision-making in the most extreme data environments imaginable: outer space. Together, they explore what space exploration can teach business and technology leaders about trust, automation, AI, and the limits of data-driven systems. Listeners will learn how astronauts rely on data, telemetry, and human judgment during high-risk missions, why data never perfectly matches reality, and why that matters in critical environments and why humans must remain in the loop when decisions carry irreversible consequences This episode offers powerful lessons for leaders navigating AI adoption, risk management, and decision-making, reminding us that technology is only as effective as the humans who design, trust, and use it. Be sure to follow Data & AI Mastery wherever you listen to your podcasts to never miss an episode. Chapter Markers: (04:40) — Why data is central to every space mission (09:40) — Trust, automation, and critical systems in spaceflight (11:00) — Why we don’t fully trust autonomous systems (yet) (14:20) — Why AI is essential for space telescopes and discovery (16:40) — What makes NASA exceptional at preparing people (19:10) — How AI is already accelerating space innovation (20:30) — Automated rocket landings and decision systems (23:50) — Quick-fire round: unforgettable space memories (28:00) — Raoul’s reflections: trust, AI, and human-in-the-loop systems Useful Links: Connect with Andrew on LinkedIn Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programmes at cambridgespark.com

    30 min
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4.9
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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.

Information

  • Creator
    Cambridge Spark
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    39
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024 Cambridge Spark
  • Show Website
    Data & AI Mastery

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