This year has thrown us into a whirlwind of political and economic challenges across the globe. At the same time, leading tech companies are pouring resources into developing artificial intelligence (AI) tools, eagerly awaiting a moment when IT buyers can confidently invest in long-term plans.
In this climate, tech and data leaders have jumped into exploring AI’s potential while carefully watching their budgets. Data has become key in driving decisions, but growing concerns about privacy and security have made many rethink their data strategies.
Computer Weekly has gathered insights from some of the brightest minds in technology. Their experiences provide valuable lessons for anyone interested in crafting an effective IT strategy to enhance business, support employees, and elevate personal careers. Here are some standout conversations from 2024.
Bruno Marie-Rose, the chief information and technology officer for the Paris 2024 Organising Committee, brings a unique perspective to his role. A former world record holder and three-time Olympian, he recently led his team to successfully implement technology for the Games.
Stuart Birrell, EasyJet’s chief data and information officer, manages one of the UK’s largest e-commerce platforms while overseeing IT for the world’s eighth-largest airline. He describes the challenge of integrating a fast-paced digital environment with the strict safety regulations of an airline, all while coordinating a diverse crew across multiple locations.
Johanna Hutchinson’s journey to becoming the chief data officer at BAE Systems began with unexpected experiences in wildlife rescue. She emphasizes the importance of hypothesis testing and questions in scientific training. Now at the forefront of technology, she’s closely watching industry trends and innovations.
Caroline Bellamy, the UK Ministry of Defence’s first chief data officer, faced unique challenges as a woman in a leadership role in defence. She emphasizes that for algorithms and decisions to be effective, the data must represent the diverse population the Ministry serves.
For James Fleming, the CIO at the Francis Crick Institute, his work is about more than just technology. “I go to sleep at night thinking that I’m helping cure cancer with computers,” he shares, highlighting the institute’s mission to advance biology through interdisciplinary collaboration among over 2,000 professionals.
At Currys, CIO Andy Gamble mentions the long-standing use of AI in areas like forecasting and customer insights. Now, he’s excited about generative AI, seeing it as something with the potential to make a real difference in retail.
Nick Woods, CIO for the Manchester Airports Group, focuses on data-led technologies to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience. His aim? To make the group’s airports the “world’s most intelligent.”
Nigel Richardson, PepsiCo’s European CIO, has three main focuses: using data and digital initiatives to sustainably grow the business, addressing core IT challenges, and building team capabilities.
Claire Thompson, L&G’s group chief data and analytics officer, notes that while data has always been important, there’s a new appreciation for its transformative power in the financial sector. “We’ve always been doing stuff with data,” she reflects, “but now we’re realizing its true value.”
Finally, Craig Donald may not be a football enthusiast, but as a leader, he’s dedicated to fostering the right culture. He finds joy in building a positive environment within his tech team and across the organization, emphasizing that creating a supportive workplace is key to success.
