Welcome to Data & AI Mastery, the podcast that brings you expert insights into how data and AI are transforming industries. 

In this episode, Raoul sits down with Richard Masters, VP of Data and AI at Virgin Atlantic, to explore how the airline leverages AI and data-driven strategies to enhance operations, optimise pricing, and deliver premium customer experiences.

The pair also go on to discuss why data & AI are critical for airline success, the build vs. buy dilemma in AI solutions, and the importance of a product mindset in AI adoption.

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Thanks for listening—stay ahead, stay inspired, and stay masterful!

Chapter Markers:

02:30 – Why data and AI are crucial for airlines 

07:20 – The squad model: How data teams operate at Virgin Atlantic 

13:47 – Build vs. buy: How to decide on AI solutions 

18:07 – What Gen AI means for Virgin Atlantic 

21:05 – Responsible AI: The importance of ethical and safe AI implementation 

24:21 – Experimentation vs. long-term AI strategy 

28:13 – Quick-fire round: Richard’s industry insights and personal favorites 

30:24 – Final thoughts and key takeaways

Useful Links: 

Learn more about Cambridge Spark: cambridgespark.com 

Connect with Richard Masters on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/richard-masters

Follow Raoul Gabriel Urma on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/raoulurma

Explore AI & Data Apprenticeships: cambridgespark.com/apprenticeships