Marketing and Data Leadership: Gabor Harsanyi on Data, AI, and Team Building at Ericsson
In this episode of Builders, Lee Haynes sits down with Gabor Harsanyi, Head of Marketing and Corporate Relations Data Office at Ericsson, to explore his journey from marketing to data analytics leadership. Gabor shares insights on data quality, customer experience, and the role of data in modern marketing strategies. He also discusses the challenges of leading data teams, mentorship, and attracting top talent, while reflecting on the future of data analytics in the age of AI. A must-listen for anyone interested in data-driven leadership, team building, and the evolving role of AI in business.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Gabor Harsanyi and Ericsson(01:08) Gabor's Career Journey in Data and Analytics(04:33) The Intersection of Data and Marketing at Ericsson(09:15) Data Quality Improvement and Its Impact(12:24) Leveraging Data for Customer Experience(18:13) Challenges in Data Analytics and Leadership(20:11) Learning from Failures in Data Strategy(25:50) Understanding Business Problems Before Solutions(28:02) Building and Leading Teams at Ericsson(29:18) Building Effective Teams: Skills and Qualities(33:09) Attracting and Retaining Talent in Data(35:38) The Evolving Role of Data Leaders(36:50) The Importance of Mentorship(39:16) Future Trends in Data Analytics(45:26) Career Advice for Aspiring Data Professionals
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52:38
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52:38
Transforming Telecom with Data & AI with Sara Asgari, Head of Digital & Analytics at Telia
In this episode of Builders, Lee Haynes speaks with Sara Asgari, Head of Digital & Analytics at Telia, about the future of telecom powered by data and AI. Sara shares her journey into digital transformation, the challenges of attracting and upskilling tech talent, and the importance of diverse teams. They also discuss smart cities, customer engagement, and why cybersecurity is critical in today’s connected world.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Digital Transformation in Telecom(00:58) Sara's Journey: From Engineering to Digital Leadership(04:47) Evolution of Digital Analytics in Business(06:07) Challenges in Transitioning to Data-Driven Strategies(07:04) Attracting and Retaining Top Talent in Tech(08:40) Creating an Engaging Work Environment for Talent(10:15) Addressing the AI Skills Gap(11:55) The Importance of Diversity in Hiring(13:24) Building Inclusive Cultures Beyond Hiring(15:53) Encouraging Collaboration Between Business and Tech(17:22) Common Pitfalls in Business-Tech Alignment(18:42) AI's Role in Shaping Customer Experience(19:14) The Future of Hyper-Personalization and Automation(21:43) Challenges in Implementing AI and Automation(24:33) Predictive Analytics in Customer Service(26:25) The Role of Telecom in Digital Services(29:06) Hyper-Personalized Customer Experiences(31:13) The Evolution of Networks with AI and 5G(34:15) Leadership Lessons in Digital Transformation(36:35) Future Projects and Sustainability in Telecom
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44:36
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44:36
Building the Future of AI: Insights from Stefan Wendin of AI Sweden
In this episode of Builders, host Lee Haynes speaks with Stefan Wendin, Head of Intelligent Systems at RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, previously Principal AI Engineer at AI Sweden, about his journey from architecture to AI and the rapid adoption of AI in Sweden. Stefan shares insights into the challenges organizations face in realizing AI’s full value, the role of public-private partnerships, and how consensus-driven decision-making impacts innovation. The discussion highlights the importance of grit, hands-on problem-solving, and a mindset that embraces change. Discover why committing to action is key to fostering creativity, growth, and successful AI adoption.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to AI Sweden and Stefan Wendin(01:25) Stefan's Journey: From Restoration to AI Innovation(04:50) AI Adoption in Sweden: Trends and Drivers(07:24) Challenges in Realizing AI Value(10:16) Transforming Operational Efficiency with AI(14:03) Public-Private Partnerships in AI Development(18:03) Best Practices for Quick AI Value Realization(22:03) The Role of Consensus in Organizational Speed(26:41) Personal Projects and Problem Solving in AI(30:15) Hands-On Experimentation and Creativity in Leadership(33:18) Cultivating a Mindset for Change(37:27) Navigating Change in Large Organizations(42:29) Hiring for Grit vs. Technical Expertise(46:53) The Impact of Grit Over Technical Proficiency(50:15) Lessons from Hands-On Experimental Approaches
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1:00:27
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1:00:27
The Future of AI & Emerging Tech with Axel Johnson's Ludvig Strand
In this episode of Builders, host Lee Haynes sits down with Ludvig Strand, Emerging Tech & AI Future Analyst at Axel Johnson, to explore the future of artificial intelligence and its impact on businesses. Ludvig shares his journey into tech, the role of an AI analyst, and how to identify and evaluate emerging trends in AI and technology. The conversation dives into generative AI, reinforcement learning, and the ethical challenges of AI adoption. Discover why curiosity and critical thinking are essential for leaders navigating today’s fast-paced AI landscape.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Emerging Tech and AI(01:01) Ludvig's Journey into Tech and AI(02:37) Role of a Future Analyst in Tech(04:11) Trend Spotting in Emerging Technologies(07:24) Exciting Trends in AI and Emerging Tech(10:06) Reinforcement Learning vs Imitation Learning(11:53) Evaluating AI Solutions for Businesses(14:49) AI as Part of Innovation Strategy(18:40) Moving from Experimentation to Implementation(21:19) Navigating the New Landscape of Generative AI(26:27) Real-World Applications of Generative AI(31:51) Understanding Misconceptions and Ethical Concerns(36:58) Regulation and Governance in AI(40:25) Advice for Business Leaders in the AI Era
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48:01
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48:01
The Future of AI & Emerging Tech with Axel Johnson's Ludvig Strand
In this episode of Builders, host Lee Haynes sits down with Ludvig Strand, Emerging Tech & AI Future Analyst at Axel Johnson, to explore the future of artificial intelligence and its impact on businesses. Ludvig shares his journey into tech, the role of an AI analyst, and how to identify and evaluate emerging trends in AI and technology. The conversation dives into generative AI, reinforcement learning, and the ethical challenges of AI adoption. Discover why curiosity and critical thinking are essential for leaders navigating today’s fast-paced AI landscape.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Emerging Tech and AI(01:01) Ludvig's Journey into Tech and AI(02:37) Role of a Future Analyst in Tech(04:11) Trend Spotting in Emerging Technologies(07:24) Exciting Trends in AI and Emerging Tech(10:06) Reinforcement Learning vs Imitation Learning(11:53) Evaluating AI Solutions for Businesses(14:49) AI as Part of Innovation Strategy(18:40) Moving from Experimentation to Implementation(21:19) Navigating the New Landscape of Generative AI(26:27) Real-World Applications of Generative AI(31:51) Understanding Misconceptions and Ethical Concerns(36:58) Regulation and Governance in AI(40:25) Advice for Business Leaders in the AI Era
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.