Hub & Spoken: Data | Analytics | Chief Data Officer | CDO | Data Strategy

In this episode, host Jason Foster is joined by Amanda Bickerstaff, CEO & Founder, AI for Education.  Together they explore the impact of AI on young people, particularly in the context of education. They discuss AI literacy, the need for AI literacy among students, teachers, and policymakers and the need for understanding AI's capabilities, limitations, and ethical considerations.  They also discuss social media & AI integration and challenges in the education system.  The conversation touches on how AI is embedded in platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, and video games, influencing young people's perceptions and behaviours, sometimes without their awareness.  ***********    Cynozure is a leading data, analytics and AI company that helps organisations to reach their data potential. It works with clients on data and AI strategy, data management, data architecture and engineering, analytics and AI, data culture and literacy, and data leadership. The company was named one of The Sunday Times’ fastest-growing private companies in both 2022 and 2023, and recognised as The Best Place to Work in Data by DataIQ in 2023 and 2024. Cynozure is a certified B Corporation.  

In this episode, host Jason Foster is joined by Lara Menke, Leadership Psychologist & Executive Coach.  Together they explore leadership development and the application of business psychology to improve workplace dynamics and team performance.  They also discuss the transformative potential of emotionally intelligent, self-aware, and empathetic leadership in fostering resilient and effective teams.  ***********   Cynozure is a leading data, analytics and AI company that helps organisations to reach their data potential. It works with clients on data and AI strategy, data management, data architecture and engineering, analytics and AI, data culture and literacy, and data leadership. The company was named one of The Sunday Times' fastest-growing private companies in both 2022 and 2023, and recognised as The Best Place to Work in Data by DataIQ in 2023 and 2024. 

In this episode, host Jason Foster sits down with Barry Panayi, Chief Data and Insight Officer at John Lewis Partnership to discuss the evolving role of the Chief Data Officer (CDO). Barry shares his journey from coding and analytics to leading data and insights at iconic brands like John Lewis and Waitrose. He offers a unique perspective on how CDOs can transition from technical experts to strategic business leaders. Barry's candid reflections and actionable advice make this episode essential listening for data professionals, aspiring CDOs, and anyone interested in the intersection of data, technology, and business leadership. Don't miss this engaging and insightful conversation!    ***********      Cynozure is a leading data, analytics and AI company that helps organisations to reach their data potential. It works with clients on data and AI strategy, data management, data architecture and engineering, analytics and AI, data culture and literacy, and data leadership. The company was named one of The Sunday Times' fastest-growing private companies in both 2022 and 2023, and recognised as The Best Place to Work in Data by DataIQ in 2023 and 2024.  

In this episode, host Jason Foster is joined by Susie Moan, Chief Data Officer at Currys and member of Cynozure's Advisory Board. They explore some of the highlights of Susie’s accomplished career in data and AI, highlighting the significance of data value in a commercial business context.    The conversation also covers how Currys successfully balances growth with cost-saving initiatives, and emphasises the importances of aligning AI initiatives with an organisation’s overarching business strategy.  ***********   Cynozure is a leading data, analytics and AI company that helps organisations to reach their data potential. It works with clients on data and AI strategy, data management, data architecture and engineering, analytics and AI, data culture and literacy, and data leadership. The company was named one of The Sunday Times’ fastest-growing private companies in both 2022 and 2023, and recognised as The Best Place to Work in Data by DataIQ in 2023 and 2024. 

In this episode, host Jason Foster sits down with Osama Khan, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic and Professor in Finance at Aston University, Birmingham.  Together, they explore how data is transforming the landscape of higher education, from revolutionising decision-making to navigating the challenges and opportunities brought about by AI.    Osama also shares insights into Aston University's pioneering initiatives, including programs designed to equip students with essential skills in AI, sustainability and future-focused competencies that prepare them for the evolving world.    ***********      Cynozure is a leading data, analytics and AI company that helps organisations to reach their data potential. It works with clients on data and AI strategy, data management, data architecture and engineering, analytics and AI, data culture and literacy, and data leadership. The company was named one of The Sunday Times' fastest-growing private companies in both 2022 and 2023, and recognised as The Best Place to Work in Data by DataIQ in 2023 and 2024.  

AI has made its way into the boardroom, bringing with it a wave of excitement—and for some, a dose of confusion. For those in the know, AI has become an accelerator for operational and strategic improvements. But for others, the rapid pace and mixed messages have led to uncertainty. In our latest episode, Cynozure’s CEO and Founder, Jason Foster explores the current state of AI in leadership spaces and the opportunities it presents for data leaders and professionals.  ***********   Cynozure is a leading data, analytics and AI company that helps organisations to reach their data potential. It works with clients on data and AI strategy, data management, data architecture and engineering, analytics and AI, data culture and literacy, and data leadership. The company was named one of The Sunday Times’ fastest-growing private companies in both 2022 and 2023, and recognised as The Best Place to Work in Data by DataIQ in 2023 and 2024. 

In this episode, host Jason Foster sits down with Paula Bobbett, Chief Digital Officer at Boots. They discuss her extensive digital experience, which includes roles at Dixon’s Carphone, British Airways, Debenhams and Avon.   They also explore the importance of an omnichannel strategy that bridges online and in-store customer experiences, using customer insights and AI tools. ***********    Cynozure is a leading data, analytics and AI company that helps organisations to reach their data potential. It works with clients on data and AI strategy, data management, data architecture and engineering, analytics and AI, data culture and literacy, and data leadership. The company was named one of The Sunday Times’ fastest-growing private companies in both 2022 and 2023, and recognised as The Best Place to Work in Data by DataIQ in 2023 and 2024.  

In this special Halloween episode, Jason Foster talks to James Lupton, CTO at Cynozure, and Keith Goldthorpe, Director of Solution Architecture at Cynozure. Reflecting on their conversation from last year, the group revisit some of their predictions and discuss the most significant developments in the realms of data and AI. They also engage in a game of ‘AI Spell or Human Skill,’ where they debate whether humans or AI tools would outperform one another in a series of spellbinding scenarios.  ***********    Cynozure is a leading data, analytics and AI company that helps organisations to reach their data potential. It works with clients on data and AI strategy, data management, data architecture and engineering, analytics and AI, data culture and literacy, and data leadership. The company was named one of The Sunday Times’ fastest-growing private companies in both 2022 and 2023, and recognised as The Best Place to Work in Data by DataIQ in 2023 and 2024. 

In this episode, host Jason Foster sits down with Cassandra Vukorep, Chief Data Officer at Lloyds of London. The discussion delves into the critical role of data literacy and how fostering a culture of data engagement can benefit a diverse range of organisations across various industries.  They also explore Cassandra’s current role at Lloyds and the exciting data opportunities that can be applied to the insurance industry.    ***********   Cynozure is a leading data, analytics and AI company that helps organisations to reach their data potential. It works with clients on data and AI strategy, data management, data architecture and engineering, analytics and AI, data culture and literacy, and data leadership. The company was named one of The Sunday Times’ fastest-growing private companies in both 2022 and 2023, and recognised as The Best Place to Work in Data by DataIQ in 2023 and 2024.   

In this episode, host Jason Foster sits down with Manuel Heichlinger, inclusivity leader and Managing Director at Audeliss. The pair discuss the myths that often plague conversations around diversity and inclusion within the professional workforce and debunk these assumptions. They also explore some of the unexpected benefits of a diverse workforce, including increased productivity, competitive advantage and fostering a deeper connection with the consumer base. *********** Cynozure is a leading data, analytics and AI company that helps organisations to reach their data potential. It works with clients on data and AI strategy, data management, data architecture and engineering, analytics and AI, data culture and literacy, and data leadership. The company was named one of The Sunday Times’ fastest-growing private companies in both 2022 and 2023, and recognised as The Best Place to Work in Data by DataIQ in 2023.