In this episode of Data Analytics Chat, host Ben Parker sits down with Aaron Hand, Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer at ArcelorMittal, to reveal what life is really like in the C-suite.

With a career spanning UBS, Holcim, and now leading AI strategy at one of the world’s largest manufacturing companies, Aaron shares candid insights on the challenges, pressures, and strategic thinking required to succeed as a modern CDO or CAIO.

You'll discover:

• What a typical day looks like at the CDO/CAIO level
• How to juggle innovation, governance, and business delivery
• Why many CDOs don’t last more than 18 months — and how to survive
• The power of domain knowledge, adaptability, and knowing your blind spots
• How a WhatsApp idea revolutionised cement sales
• Why “AI-first” needs to be more than a buzzword

🎧 A must-listen for data professionals, leaders, and anyone eyeing the C-suite in data & AI.

Episode Breakdown:

00:00 – Introduction and Guest Welcome
 00:41 – Aaron Hand's Early Career Journey
 02:26 – Transition into AI and Big Data
 03:38 – Career Progression at UBS
 05:21 – Leading AI at Holcim
 07:28 – Inside the Role of a Chief AI Officer
 16:39 – Managing Expectations and AI Hype
 25:27 – The Value of Great Mentors and Managers
 26:11 – Listening, Trust, and Collaboration
 26:44 – Innovation from the Ground Up: WhatsApp Sales Case
 28:06 – Workshops, Hackathons & Cross-Functional Teams
 29:34 – Flexibility in Strategy and Delivery
 35:48 – Continuous Learning & Staying Ahead with Podcasts
 40:04 – Major Setbacks, Mergers, and Resilience
 43:16 – Career Reflections and Proud Moments
 46:19 – Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Aspiring Leaders

Thank you for listening!