Public Sector Podcast

In this candid and compelling episode, Alex Benay and Karen Figuerola share an unfiltered look at the cultural and systemic issues behind Canada’s HR and pay challenges—and the bold transformation underway to fix them. From the $7 billion Phoenix failure to the rollout of Dayforce, Alex explains why fixing the tech alone isn’t enough. True change, he argues, starts with shifting behaviours, embracing radical transparency, and putting people at the centre of every decision. With real talk on AI, automation, executive accountability, and the power of user-centred design, this episode is both a wake-up call and a roadmap for leading transformation in the public sector. If you care about meaningful change, leadership that’s unafraid to fail, and building systems that simply work, you won’t want to miss it. Alex Benay, Associate Deputy Minister, (Enterprise Pay Coordination), Public Services and Procurement, Karen Figuerola, Partner, People Consulting, EY.   For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In this episode of Public Sector Podcast, Ireland’s Government Chief Information Officer shares the country’s journey from traditional e-government to a bold, citizen-centred digital transformation. With a focus on inclusion, trust, and user-first design, Ireland is rethinking how government services are delivered—one life event at a time. Discover how Ireland is building shared infrastructure, adopting agile practices, and aligning with EU digital standards, all while navigating legislative hurdles and cultural change. Whether you're in policy, IT, or service delivery, this episode offers valuable lessons for governments striving to meet people where they are—both online and offline. Barry Lowry, CIO, Government of Ireland. For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Join us in this insightful podcast as we sit down with Kimberly Roy Wilson, Commissioner, Information Technology & Services Division, City of Cleveland, to explore Ohio local government's challenges and opportunities in innovation and technology. Kimberly Roy Wilson Commissioner, Information Technology & Services Division, City of Cleveland For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In this episode, Ima Okonny, Chief Data Officer, Assistant Deputy Minister, Employment and Social Development Canada shares how one of Canada’s largest federal departments is using data, AI, and innovation to deliver more inclusive and responsive public services. The conversation explores the importance of building a strong data foundation, developing ethical and transparent AI practices, and ensuring no citizen is left behind. Listeners will hear how ESDC is tackling demographic change, accessibility needs, and complex service delivery through in-house AI development, integrated data strategies, and a culture of trust and transparency. Whether you're in government, tech, or policy, this episode offers valuable insights into what it takes to lead digital transformation with purpose. Ima Okonny, Chief Data Officer, Assistant Deputy Minister, Employment and Social Development Canada For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Join us in this insightful podcast as we sit down with Sophia Mohr, Chief Innovation and Technology Officer, Central Ohio Transit Authority, to explore how to maximize the impact of technology, data and AI applications in public sector. Sophia Mohr, Chief Innovation and Technology Officer, Central Ohio Transit Authority For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In this episode, Darren Van Sommeren discusses the future of cybersecurity in South Australia heading into 2025. He outlines the rise in sophisticated cyber threats, driven by geopolitical instability, and calls for collaboration over fear as the key to resilience. Darren also unpacks how AI is reshaping the threat landscape, from deepfakes to phishing, and highlights the need for proactive defence strategies like threat hunting and clear communication to stay ahead. He emphasises that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, requiring coordination across government, industry, and the community. With a realistic yet hopeful outlook, Darren encourages organisations to stay alert, informed, and united in the face of growing digital threats. Darryn Van Someren Acting Government Chief Information Security Officer, Department of Treasury and Finance, SA For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co    

In this episode, we join Matt Opie in a deep dive into the future of defence innovation and workforce development in South Australia. This episode explores key defence and space sector priorities for 2025 and beyond, strategies to build a skilled workforce pipeline, and how to accelerate innovation within SA’s defence ecosystem. Matt also discusses the power of collaboration between industry, government, academia, and defence to drive technological advancements and strengthen Australia’s defence capabilities. Tune in to gain insights on how South Australia is positioning itself as a leader in defence innovation and capability development. Matt Opie, CEO, Defence SA For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Join Susan Pearce as she explores the future of personalised, digitally enabled healthcare in New South Wales, unpacking key successes and priorities for 2025. In this episode, she discusses how value-based care is transforming patient outcomes, the importance of integrating digital tools with human connection, and how collaboration and partnerships are driving innovation across the healthcare sector. Susan shares insights on striking the right balance between digitisation, self-service, and maintaining the human touch, ensuring that technology enhances rather than replaces meaningful patient care. Tune in to discover how NSW Health is reshaping healthcare delivery to be more connected, efficient, and patient-focused. Susan Pearce, Secretary, NSW Health For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In this episode, Danielle from Trillium Health Partners discusses strategies for addressing workforce challenges in Canadian healthcare. She shares insights on optimizing staffing models through flexible work arrangements and task delegation, while balancing cost control and preventing burnout. Danielle highlights the importance of training and upskilling initiatives, which have improved staff retention and patient care, and calls for broader support for professional development. She also explores how Trillium leverages technology, like automation and AI, to reduce administrative burdens and enhance efficiency. Addressing the skilled worker shortage, Dannielle emphasizes collaboration between healthcare providers, educational institutions, and government agencies for sustainable solutions. Looking ahead, she shares trends in workforce management and offers advice for HR leaders navigating labor cost and staffing challenges. A valuable listen for healthcare professionals seeking innovative solutions. Danielle Sanagan Chief Human Resources Officer/VP People Servces, Trillium Health Parnters For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co    

In this episode Jennifer Franks reveals how Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) is revolutionising cybersecurity in government. Unlike traditional security models, ZTA eliminates implicit trust by enforcing continuous verification, strict identity authentication, and least privilege access, ensuring robust protection against unauthorised access and data breaches. The discussion highlights critical gaps in inventory and access management faced by federal agencies and emphasises the need for continuous monitoring and cataloging of data and network assets. We also examine how ZTA is an ongoing security process, requiring a phased implementation approach and continuous security awareness training to adapt to emerging cyber threats. Tune in to learn how Zero Trust is transforming cybersecurity into a proactive and resilient defence model for the public sector. Jennifer Franks, Director Center for Enhanced  Cybersecurity, GAO For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co