In this episode of Lead With Data, Rina Gami sits down with Clare Kitching, a senior data leader who works closely with organisations navigating complex data and AI decisions. The conversation explores why many data and AI initiatives stall and not because of tooling gaps.

The conversation unpacks how data teams are navigating generative AI, agentic AI and increasing pressure to move quickly, often without the shared language, context and alignment required to succeed. Clare shares what she is seeing first-hand across organisations grappling with executive expectations, shadow AI, governance concerns and the widening distance between technical teams and business leaders.

This episode focuses on the growing importance of translators in data teams' people who can bridge strategy, technology and value and what leaders should be paying attention to before scaling AI.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why tools alone do not solve AI and data challenges
• The shift from traditional data initiatives to generative AI and agentic-based AI
• The critical role of senior executive sponsorship in AI success
• How translators help close the gap between technical teams and the business
• Practical ways organisations can start or scale AI responsibly
• Evolving roles in data teams, including analytics translators and AI governance specialists
• Common challenges such as shadow AI, data quality and organisational buy-in
• Indicators that signal true readiness to scale AI
• Why value-led AI initiatives matter more than experimentation

00:00 – AI as a high-return capability in modern data teams

01:32 – Claire’s career journey and move into consulting

03:16 – What has changed in data and AI over the last five years

04:00 – Where organisations are really at in their AI journeys

05:24 – Pressure to move quickly and what gets missed

06:03 – Executive sponsorship and its impact on outcomes

07:30 – Data team structures and emerging gaps

08:53 – Organisational barriers to AI adoption

10:38 – Shadow AI and responsible use

12:34 – Initial assessment points when working with organisations

14:47 – Asking the right questions to align AI to value

17:11 – Why communication is now a core data capability

19:09 – Telling the data story in a way the business understands

22:18 – Structuring data teams for sustainable AI outcomes

25:26 – Evolving roles across data, engineering and governance

28:11 – Everyday AI, generative AI and agent AI explained

32:21 – Leadership priorities when advancing AI initiatives

33:49 – Signs an organisation is ready to scale AI responsibly

35:11 – Maintaining momentum without creating risk

36:08 – Hiring for AI capability beyond technical skills

38:25 – When and why to involve external expertise

41:17 – The value of an external perspective

44:48 – Avoiding stagnation in AI programs

45:27 – Communication and storytelling as critical capabilities

46:16 – Leadership alignment and organisational readiness

46:44 – Final reflections and next steps

• Experian Data Studio – supporting stronger data governance and trust
• Claire Kitching Linkedin Website - cambiq.com.au

In this episode, Nick Jameson shares his journey from aerospace engineering and defence to data leadership. He discusses why the fail fast mindset is important for Data Innovation, how high-stakes environments influence building resilient data platforms, the importance of problem-solving, stakeholder engagement and managing technical debt. Gain insights into effective leadership, balancing innovation with foundational stability and the future of data engineering and analytics.

Data Engineering, Data Leadership, High-Stakes Environments, Data Platforms, Analytics, Tech Debt, Leadership, AI, Data Strategy

Key topics:

• Transferable skills from aerospace to data
• Building resilient and scalable data platforms
• Managing technical debt and platform maturity
• Leadership principles in data teams
• The impact of AI and emerging technologies

Chapters

00:00 Embracing Opportunities and Learning from Failure

02:50 Transitioning from Aerospace to Data Analytics

05:58 Core Principles from High-Stakes Engineering

08:33 Decision-Making Under Pressure

11:41 Balancing Processes and Flexibility in Data Analytics

14:36 Managing Expectations and Prioritization

17:16 Building Robust Data Platforms for Future Challenges

20:04 The Interplay of Data Engineering and Advanced Analytics

22:25 Building Robust Data Pipelines

23:23 The Risks of Premature Analytics

25:46 Challenging Assumptions in Data Teams

27:16 Balancing Investments in Data Tools

28:43 Leadership Lessons from Engineering

31:03 Managing Stress in Leadership

34:38 Advice for Nonlinear Moves into Data

36:07 Building a Modern Data Platform

38:26 Investing in People as a Leader

40:15 The Future of Data Engineering and Analytics

Resources

Experian Data Solutions

Nick Jameson on LinkedIn

As we wrap up the final episode of Season 5 of the Lead with Data podcast, we explore why so many AI pilots fail. Joining me is Noel Hanssens, and together we unpack the biggest challenges organisations face when implementing AI, including governance gaps, misconceptions and misalignment with strategy. We also discuss the need for AI literacy across teams and the critical role of CFOs in guiding AI investments. Packed with real-world insights, this episode highlights how to unlock AI’s potential while keeping implementation responsible and strategic.

Joining me in this week’s episode is Pushkar Mishra, who brings sharp insights into the powerful connection between data risk, governance and organisational transformation. Pushkar shares why neglecting data quality can be costly, how engaging stakeholders effectively can showcase the true business value of data governance and the pivotal role data champions play in driving change. We also dive into the ethical implications of AI and the emerging risks shaping the future of data management. This episode is packed with actionable insights for leaders looking to turn data governance into a strategic advantage that fuels growth and innovation.

Key topics we discuss include:

• The Interconnection of Transformation and Data Risk
• Challenges in Perception of Data Governance
• The Cost of Ignoring Data Governance
• Execution Challenges in Data Governance Strategies
• Understanding Business Value in Data Governance
• Future Data Risks and Ethical Considerations

Joining me in this week’s episode is Mark Sergeant he offers a candid perspective on why managing technical debt requires more than quick fixes; it demands strategic thinking and collaboration.

Our conversation dives into:

- Measuring and managing technical debt effectively

- Building transparency between data teams and business leaders

- Adopting a thoughtful approach to modernisation

Mark also shares practical advice on tackling visible pain points first and ensuring data initiatives deliver consistent, long-term value. For data and technology leaders, this episode provides actionable insights to balance innovation with sustainability and drive meaningful business outcomes.

In this episode, I sit down with Lucas Dahan to unravel the complexities of building and retaining effective data teams. We tackle the challenges of high staff turnover and explore how shifting from a support to a product mindset can transform team dynamics. Lucas shares his insights from working across different sizes of organisations, from scale-ups to large corporates, emphasising that no matter how big or small, you can still transform your teams. Join us for a conversation that might just get you to rethink and reshape your approach to running your data teams.

Key Topics:

The Structure and Challenges of Data Teams

The Shift from Support to Product Teams

Implementing Change in Large Organizations

Transforming Engineering Mindsets

Shifting from Reporting to Problem Solving

Fostering Ownership and Accountability

Managing Diverse Skill Sets

Empowering Team Members for Ownership

In this episode of the Lead with Data podcast, I sit down with Martin Soley to talk data governance and unlocking business value. We discuss the complexities and challenges organisations face, the importance of aligning governance with business strategy and the evolving role of data governance leaders. Martin shares insights on the importance of engaging with business owners and where using technology can improve data quality. The conversation highlights the need to understand business drivers to show the value of data governance and why you can’t afford not to do this.

Key Takeaways

• Data governance can often feel like a box-ticking exercise
• Organisations face various challenges in data quality and governance
• Common mistakes include lack of buy-in and misalignment with business goals
• Data governance should be part of the business culture
• Effective governance is about turning data into actionable knowledge
• Engaging with business owners is crucial for data insights
• Technology can help automate data quality processes
• Communication skills are essential for governance leaders
• The future of data governance will require more business literacy

In this episode, I sit down with Danny Sittrop, GM of Advanced Analytics, and we talk about his unconventional journey from engineering to data leadership. Our conversation gets into how curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to fail forward shaped his career and how flow, focus and empathy drive impact in the analytics space. Whether you're a technical expert or a business professional, this candid conversation offers insights into building a meaningful career in data providing reassurance and tips to those thinking about a pivot to analytics or those who may be facing some of these hurdles.

In this episode, I am joined by Sridhar Deenadayalan, a seasoned AI and cloud strategist with deep expertise in helping organisations navigate digital transformation through practical, scalable adoption of artificial intelligence and machine learning.

We unpack the journey of AI adoption what it really takes to get started, and where it’s all heading. We explore the practical steps organisations need to take, from building strong data foundations to navigating the shifting roles brought on by AI. Along the way, we bust a few myths and share insights on how to make AI work in the real world. Whether you're just starting out or already deep in the data, this one's worth a listen.

In this episode, I sit down with Simon Kriss, the owner and Chief AI Officer of a boutique advisory firm that provides guidance to modern businesses wanting to grow their understanding of AI while ensuring it is done ethically and safely. Our discussion gets into the fascinating intersection of technology and humanity, exploring how artificial intelligence is reshaping our world while maintaining a human touch. Join us as we uncover stories of AI-driven innovations that prioritise empathy, creativity, and human connection. From healthcare to education, discover how AI is enhancing our lives by understanding and responding to our unique needs. Tune in to explore the heartwarming and thought-provoking aspects of AI that remind us of the power of human ingenuity.