Building a Data-Driven Culture with Mahmoud Yassin (Booking.com) | AI, Data Quality & Governance
Senior Data Manager at Booking.com, Mahmoud Yassin, shares how to build a data-driven culture, improve data quality, and balance AI with human judgment. Learn about data governance, hiring for data roles, and driving change in a fast-paced, regulated environment.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Data Leadership(00:56) Mahmoud's Journey in Data Management(05:05) Current Role at Booking.com(05:40) A Day in the Life of a Data Manager(08:14) Data-Driven Customer Experience(12:12) Ensuring Actionable Insights(15:52) Avoiding Data Paralysis(18:33) Balancing AI and Human Judgment(21:14) Guardrails for Machine Learning Models(23:43) Adapting to Regulatory Changes(25:26) Navigating Data Management and Regulation(27:20) Fostering a Data-Centric Culture(30:42) Overcoming Resistance to Data-Driven Change(32:41) Hiring for Data Roles in a Competitive Landscape(36:06) Balancing Soft Skills with Technical Expertise(38:45) Emerging Trends in Data and AI(41:29) Skills for Aspiring Data Leaders(44:35) Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations and Innovations
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54:47
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54:47
Driving Business Transformation with Data: ICA Group's Annie von Heijne on Analytics, AI & Retail Innovation
In this episode of Builders, host Lee Haynes speaks with Annie von Heijne, Manager of Data & Analytics Transformation at EcoGroup. Annie shares her journey in business transformation and how data plays a pivotal role in driving strategic decisions. They dive into the importance of collaboration between tech and business teams, overcoming misalignment, and the value of data quality in uncovering operational truths.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Annie von Heijne and EcoGroup(01:28) Annie's Career Journey and Passion for Analytics(03:47) The Role of Data and Analytics Transformation(06:40) Understanding EcoGroup's Business Model(08:02) Technological Transformations in Customer Experience(10:30) Analytics as a Strategic Asset(12:44) Fostering Collaboration Between Tech and Business(16:29) Challenges of Misalignment in Teams(20:03) Team Structure and Ownership in Transformation(23:11) Approaching Business Transformation with Analytics(25:56) Data Quality and Business Process Transformation(27:55) Insights from Analytics: Aha Moments(31:24) Strategic Initiatives in AI and Data(34:41) Leadership's Role in Data-Driven Culture(38:39) Future Trends in Retail Analytics(44:58) Practical Advice for Early Analytics Journeys
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49:50
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49:50
AI Beyond the Hype: Olof Granberg on Data Readiness, Agentic AI & Enterprise Adoption
In this episode of Builders, Lee Haynes talks with Olof Granberg—AI strategist and founder of DataMentor Consulting—about the realities of adopting AI in enterprise settings. With a rich background in data and AI leadership, Olof shares lessons from working with large organizations and the critical role of data readiness, metadata, and culture in enabling successful AI initiatives. The conversation dives into the evolution of data management, the rise of agentic AI, and why collaboration between business and data teams is essential. Olof also explores the contrast between startups and enterprises in leveraging AI and offers insights on staying adaptable amid rapid AI innovation.Chapters:(00:00) Introduction to AI Strategy and Consulting(05:56) Standout Moments in AI Adoption(12:05) The Impact of Big Data Hype(18:03) Enterprise vs. Personal AI Adoption(24:02) Data Readiness for AI Implementation(30:03) Data Mentor Consulting's Mission(35:19) The Rise of Agentic AI: Predictions for 2025(40:52) Integrating Machine Learning in Data Preparation(49:39) Building Effective Data Teams: Skills and Roles(57:50) Startups vs. Enterprises: Different Approaches to AI
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1:06:06
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1:06:06
Transforming Employee Finance: Paynest’s Nuno Pereira on Their Mission to Redefine Financial Wellbeing
In this episode of Builders, Lee Haynes sits down with Nuno Pereira, Co-founder and CEO of Paynest, to explore his journey from aerospace engineering to FinTech entrepreneurship. Nuno shares how Paynest is transforming employee financial wellbeing through AI-powered solutions and a holistic platform that integrates seamlessly into daily work life. The conversation covers the importance of financial literacy, success metrics from real-world implementations, and Paynest’s vision for expansion across Europe. Nuno also reflects on navigating the fast-paced world of fintech startups, balancing growth with ethical responsibility, and building a company culture rooted in purpose. Whether you’re a founder, fintech enthusiast, or advocate for employee wellbeing, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiration.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Paynest and Nuno Pereira’s Journey(02:59) The Founding Story of Paynest(05:57) Understanding Paynest’s Mission and Challenges(08:52) Balancing Technical and Human Aspects in FinTech Leadership(11:51) Navigating Early Challenges and Funding Success(15:09) Expanding Paynest’s Reach and Financial Literacy(17:58) The Importance of Financial Wellbeing for Employees(20:55) Differentiating Paynest in the FinTech Landscape(23:39) Integrating Financial Wellness into Daily Work Life(24:20) Success Stories: Measuring Financial Health Improvements(27:10) Leveraging AI for Expense Management Efficiency(30:06) Building a Holistic Employee Finance Platform(32:49) Vision for Paynest: Expanding Across Europe(34:23) Challenges and Opportunities in the FinTech Landscape(36:49) The Role of AI in Reshaping Financial Services(38:59) Data Privacy and Security in FinTech(43:32) Balancing Fast Growth with Ethical Responsibility(45:31) Emerging Trends in FinTech(48:08) Advice for New FinTech Founders
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50:36
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50:36
Volvo's Jesper Fredriksson on Generative AI, UX, and the Future of Automotive Tech
In this episode of Builders by Proxify, Lee Haynes talks with Jesper Fredriksson, lead AI engineer at Volvo Cars, about his path from neuroscience research to shaping the future of AI in the automotive industry. Jesper shares what it’s like to move from startups to a global enterprise, lead AI innovation at scale, and harness generative AI to transform user experience. The discussion covers AI-driven personalization, ethical AI, data privacy, and the evolving landscape of autonomous driving. Jesper also offers career advice for aspiring AI engineers and emphasizes the importance of curiosity and adaptability in a fast-changing tech world.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to AI in Automotive(01:09) Jesper's Journey: From Brain Research to AI(03:40) Transitioning from Startups to Volvo Cars(06:30) The Role of AI in Enhancing Digital Experience(10:25) Building and Leading AI Teams(13:00) Challenges in Team Building and Agility(18:29) Generative AI Applications at Volvo Cars(23:18) AI-Driven Personalization in User Experience(25:25) Navigating User Experience and Data Privacy(27:29) AI in Startups vs. Enterprises(29:58) Risk Tolerance in Innovation(31:02) Ethical Challenges in AI(33:25) The Future of Autonomous Driving(39:31) Advice for Aspiring AI Engineers(46:35) Preparing for Rapid Changes in AI
This is Builders, the podcast where we discuss the ups and downs of building great tech products with the people behind innovative tech products and services.
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