From Data Scientist to the C-Suite: Foundations, ROI, and Leading AI at Scale — Kevin Cassar, Chief Data & AI Officer at TalkTalk

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In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, host Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma is joined by Kevin Cassar, Chief Data & AI Officer at TalkTalk, to explore what it truly takes to lead data and AI transformation from the ground up, and from the boardroom down.

Kevin’s journey is a rare one. Starting as a data scientist, completing a Level 7 Data Science & AI apprenticeship, and rising to the C-suite, he brings a uniquely grounded perspective on leadership, ROI, foundations, and people-centred transformation.

Together, they unpack how high-performing data teams are built, how AI initiatives win executive buy-in, and why getting the foundations right is the difference between sustainable impact and expensive tech debt.

Listeners will learn the three critical skills every Chief Data & AI Officer needs today, what “strong foundations” really mean and why continuous learning and upskilling are non-negotiable in fast-moving AI environments.

This episode is packed with practical guidance for CIOs, CDOs, AI leaders, and aspiring executives who want to scale AI responsibly, deliver ROI, and build teams that can keep learning as the business evolves.

Be sure to follow Data & AI Mastery wherever you listen to your podcasts to never miss an episode.

Chapter Markers:

(01:40) — Kevin Cassar’s career journey from data scientist to C-suite

(04:50) — Getting the foundations right to accelerate later

(09:10) — Translating AI work into business value

(14:00) — Better customer outcomes and operational efficiency

(18:40) — Bringing the business along every sprint

(22:20) — Lessons from Kevin’s Level 7 apprenticeship journey

(28:40) — Measuring maturity: how to show progress to the CEO

(31:40) — Quick-fire round: contrarian views on AI

(36:00) — Raoul’s reflections: pitching AI, foundations, and balance

Useful Links:

Connect with Kevin on LinkedIn

Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn

Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programmes at cambridgespark.com