Everyone says they want to “build a data function.”
Very few have actually done it.
Even fewer have done it well — and at scale.

This week Adam is joined by, Jonathan Mak, Director of Business Data at Nearmap.

For those who don’t know, Nearmap is a leading Australian geospatial tech company — think high-resolution aerial imagery, location intelligence, and cutting-edge AI powering decisions for governments, insurers, and engineers across ANZ and the US.

Jonathan joined as their first ever data hire.

No team. No platform. Just a Redshift instance and a blank canvas.

Fast-forward to today — he leads a lean, high-impact data team embedded across the business, delivering measurable outcomes every day.

Here’s what we get into:

💥 How he built Nearmap’s data stack from scratch (early adopter of DBT + Looker)
💥 Why data as a product is more than a mindset — it’s a strategy
💥 The importance of choosing your first stakeholder carefully
💥 How to scale data with a team of 6 (without cutting corners)
💥 The role of analytics engineering in breaking down silos
💥 LLMs and AI: less dashboards, more action
💥 The real reason most data projects fail (hint: it’s not the tech)

🔗 Connect with Jonathan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-mak-51709992/

⁠🔗 Connect with Adam: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/amasseyadam/

🌐 Check out Nearmap: https://www.nearmap.com

In this episode, Adam sits down with Chris Simusokwe, the visionary GM of the Data Center of Excellence at TPG Telecom, to dive into his incredible journey—from starting out in tech in Zambia to spearheading groundbreaking data transformation efforts in Australia.

Chris takes us behind the scenes of TPG's dynamic data journey, revealing how they’re reshaping the telecommunications landscape by simplifying service plans, revolutionizing customer experiences, and modernizing their tech ecosystem.

He also opens up about the challenges of aligning data governance with business objectives and the critical role of hybrid data architecture in driving innovation.

Plus, the conversation explores the exciting future of AI in telecom and why responsible AI practices are a non-negotiable part of TPG’s strategy.

Key Takeaways:

🌍 Chris's journey began in Zambia, transitioning from tech roles to data analytics.

🔄 TPG's data transformation focuses on simplifying service plans and improving customer experience.

📊 The importance of a business-led approach to data initiatives is emphasised.

🏗️ Chris advocates for a hybrid data architecture to balance centralised and federated approaches.

🔒 Data governance is crucial for ensuring trust in data quality and usage.

💡 The success of AI initiatives relies on understanding the business problem first.

🛠️ TPG aims to modernise its tech stack while streamlining inherited systems from acquisitions.

🌱 Responsible AI practices are essential for ethical implementation in telecommunications.

👨‍🏫 Chris believes in learning from industry leaders rather than being the first to innovate.

🌐 The conversation concludes with Chris sharing his website for further connection.

How to Connect?

You can find out everything Chris is working on right now at his website:www.chrissimusokwe.com

LinkedIn:

Chris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christophersimusokwe/

Adam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amasseyadam/

Overview:

The discussion dives into Stephen's career trajectory, his role at IBM, and how enterprises can harness data and AI effectively.

Key Highlights:

Takeaways:
AI isn’t replacing jobs—it’s transforming how we work. By adopting a mindset of continual learning, creativity, and collaboration, organizations and individuals can leverage AI to enhance productivity and innovation.

Stephen’s message: think big, start small, and embrace the potential of AI responsibly.

Connect here:

Stephen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-du-ibm/

Adam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amasseyadam/

Featured IBM Links:

https://www.ibm.com/au-en

https://instructlab.ai/

https://www.ibm.com/granite?lnk=dev

In Episode 4 of The Data Dojo Podcast, host Adam Massey is joined by Daniela Elia, a leader in AI and ethics with over 15 years of experience across Australia and the UK.

This week, Adam sit's down with James Hartwright, a seasoned data professional with over 30 years of experience. James is the Co-Founder of Pragmaticians, a company dedicated to helping organisations refine their data and analytics strategies.

But that's not all! He’s currently juggling FOUR roles as a fractional C-suite leader, working with various companies to drive their data strategy, analytics, and technology.

In this episode, we cover:

🔹 James also dives into Cybersecurity challenges, highlighting the importance of ISO certification for securing data and protecting organisations from ever-evolving cyber threats.

If you're interested in data strategy, leadership, or how AI can transform internal communications, this episode is packed with valuable insights!

Connect with James:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/misterdata/

Connect with Adam:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/amasseyadam/

Visit Trffyk.ai:

https://www.traffyk.ai/

In this episode of Data Dojo, Adam sits down with Yanir Seroussi, founder of a consultancy firm and a leader in the data and AI space, particularly within the climate and nature tech sector.

Yanir shares his journey and the unique challenges startups face when implementing data, AI, and ML projects. From bridging the gap between data science and engineering to ensuring data quality and managing expectations, Yanir offers valuable insights for data professionals.

He emphasizes the importance of communication skills, business acumen, and the ability to adapt to new tools and technologies. Looking ahead, Yanir predicts rapid advancements in AI and ML, with transformative changes on the horizon.

Don't miss this insightful conversation on the evolving landscape of data and AI!

Follow Yanir Here:

https://yanirseroussi.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/yanirseroussi/

Follow Adam Here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/amasseyadam/

Maria Patrakova, a data professional with over 20 years of experience, discusses her journey in the data and engineering field, her work with startups, and the challenges and opportunities in the industry.

She talks through her experience adopting fractional leadership and splitting her time between different start ups to lead data engineering functions.

She emphasises the importance of data quality and the role of AI in improving it. Maria also shares her experiences as a woman in the technology space and the need for diverse role models.

She provides insights into building effective data teams and the key strategies for leadership.

Takeaways:

You can connect with Maria on LinkedIn: ⁠linkedin.com/in/maria-patrakova-81a36122

Follow Adam on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/amasseyadam

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:25 Working with Multiple Startups

06:44 Challenges in Enterprise and Startup Environments

10:31 The Importance of Diversity in Tech

14:05 Balancing Work and Personal Life

19:05 The Future of Data Analytics and AI

22:04 The Role of AI in Improving Data Quality

25:21 Inviting Startup Owners to Connect

Join your host Adam Massey on a journey into the fascinating world of data science, AI, and machine learning.

In each episode, we bring you conversations with industry leaders, innovators, and experts who are shaping the future of data.

Don't miss our first episode, launching August.

Subscribe now!