<p>👉 Discover how Cambridge Spark helps organisations build the data and AI capabilities needed to turn strategy into measurable impact:<a href="https://cambridgespark.com/" target="_blank"> cambridgespark.com</a></p> <p>On this week's episode of Data &amp; AI Mastery, Luke Pearce, Chief Data and AI Officer at Santander UK, joins Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma to discuss what it actually takes to drive meaningful AI adoption inside one of the UK's largest banks.</p> <p>Luke shares how Santander UK moved beyond a governance-heavy data culture to build genuine C-suite and board-level sponsorship for AI. He challenges the conventional cost-saving narrative around AI ROI, making the case for customer and colleague delight as the more powerful North Star.</p> <p>The conversation covers how Santander UK structured its AI rollout using a domain-based approach, why cross-functional teams are critical to success, and how to have productive governance conversations with a board that is both excited and cautious about AI.</p> <p>Luke also offers a genuinely contrarian view on the future of the CDO role and what he would change about the industry if he could.</p> <p>A practical and candid episode for any senior data or AI leader navigating organisational complexity.</p> <p>Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or YouTube so you never miss an episode.</p> <p><b>Chapter Markers</b></p> <p>(00:00) - Introduction and Luke Pearce's Career Journey</p> <p>(04:51) - How Industry Experience Shapes Data Expectations</p> <p>(07:24) - Organisational Structures That Support Data and AI</p> <p>(10:19) - Redefining AI ROI Beyond Cost Reduction</p> <p>(14:13) - Board and C-Suite Expectations: Navigating the Difference</p> <p>(18:25) - Lessons for Organisations Just Starting Their AI Journey</p> <p>(22:29) - Picking the Right Domains and Managing AI Momentum</p> <p>(26:21) - Quickfire Round: Contrarian Views and Personal Insights</p> <p>(30:13) - Episode Wrap-Up and Key Takeaways</p> <p><b>Useful Links</b></p> <p>Connect with Luke Pearce on LinkedIn: <a href="https://uk.linkedin.com/in/luke-pearce-23121522" target="_blank">https://uk.linkedin.com/in/luke-pearce-23121522</a></p> <p>Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/raoulurma/" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/raoulurma/</a></p> <p>Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programmes at <a href="https://www.cambridgespark.com" target="_blank">https://www.cambridgespark.com</a></p>