“You can’t just expect someone to be a data steward from a standing start. You have to support them, train them and reward them.” - Peter Jackson, Interim Global Head of Data Office, Schroders
In this episode of the Data & AI Podcast, host Josh Walker is joined by two heavyweights of enterprise data: Peter Jackson, Interim Global Head of Data at Schroders, and Jez Davies, Global Head of Data Products at Northern Trust. Together, they unpack the cultural, structural, and strategic barriers to becoming truly data-driven in Financial Services, and what it really takes to overcome them.
From data silos and sceptical execs, to failed initiatives and abandoned data villages, this episode explores why data transformation is less about tools and more about mindset. You’ll hear hard-won lessons on introducing product thinking into data, reshaping organisational behaviors, and why "data governance by stealth" might be the future.
Whether you’re wrangling legacy systems or pushing the boundaries of AI, this is a must-listen for anyone building data foundations that last.
“Treating data like a product isn’t just a mindset shift, it’s a discipline. It forces you to build for discoverability, usability, and scale.” - Jez Davies, Global Head of Data Products, Northern Trust
Listen now:
Jez Davies is Global Head of Data Products at Northern Trust Asset Servicing, where he’s shaping the next generation of cloud-native data platforms for global finance. With over two decades of experience spanning Bloomberg, UBS, and HSBC, Jez blends deep technical expertise with a sharp product mindset to deliver data solutions that scale - securely, intelligently, and fast.
At Bloomberg, he led the buildout of cutting-edge data science capabilities and enterprise-grade platforms, bridging the gap between engineering and business impact. His work spans AI, big data, and real-time analytics - always focused on creating data products that drive decisions, not just dashboards.
Jez is passionate about transforming legacy into leverage - helping organisations turn complex data into a strategic asset.
Peter Jackson is a leading voice in data and digital transformation, currently Interim Global Head of Data Office at Schroders. With a career spanning top data roles at Legal & General, Exasol, Southern Water, and The Pensions Regulator, Peter has built and led data functions that drive real-world impact at scale.
He’s a hands-on, high-impact leader - known for turning strategy into action, building modern data teams, and delivering enterprise-wide change across finance, utilities, and government. His expertise cuts across data strategy, governance, literacy, and analytics, always with a focus on business outcomes.
A regular on the global speaking circuit, Peter is also the co-author of four best-selling books, including The Chief Data Officer’s Playbook and Data-Driven Business Transformation.
His mission? Help organisations turn data from a cost centre into a competitive edge.
The Data & AI Podcast explores the developments, insights and trends in data science and AI/ML. Our hosts will delve into the latest news and discuss the challenges on how enterprises are reimagining how they use data and AI to benefit their customers.
Interested in speaking on the show? Get in touch with us at podcasts@mesh-ai.com
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