Event

The Many Flavours of Data Projects and the Data-Driven Enterprise

9 October 2024, 16:30 - 20:00 GMT

Join us at Softwire Manchester for an insightful evening of talks on the hugely important topic of data engineering. In two illuminating talks, experienced data professionals will demystify the world of data engineering and provide real-world insight into how a multibillion dollar global enterprise leverages data to create competitive advantage.

The Many Flavours of Data Projects

Every software system collects data. Lots of it. And as businesses, we want to make sure we use our data wisely to get key insights and make informed decisions. However, in a world filled with technical jargon and lots of new tooling, it can hard to know what it is you actually need. Are you ready for AI and Data Science? Do you just want to create some nice reports? Or do you simply want to store your data safely?

In this talk, Laura will explain how data engineering, analytics, data science and AI fit together - and show how "data" projects come in many different shapes and sizes.

The Data-Driven Enterprise

Haleon is an 11 Billion Dollar startup having successfully separated from GSK in 2022 as one of the largest consumer healthcare companies globally; operating out of 135 countries globally, manufacturing household brands such as Sensodyne, Advil and Panadol.

In this talk Global Head of Engineering and Architecture Steve Westgarth will explore how Haleon is reimagining how data can create competitive advantage for the organisation and the approach being taken to enable an AI enabled data driven enterprise.

Steve will explore the importance of composable architecture, the role of a federated data mesh and the complexities of enabling the technology at scale within a FTSE20 company.

Agenda

17:30 – Arrival, welcome drinks and nibbles
18:00 – Welcome and Introduction: Tom Ward, Head of Softwire Manchester
18:05 “The Many Flavours of Data Projects": Laura Hughes, Technical Principal, Softwire
18:35 – Break for pizza
18:45 – "The Data-Driven Enterprise": Steve Westgarth, Global Head of Engineering, Haleon
19:15 – Q&A, followed by networking, further drinks and nibbles
20:30 – Event ends

More information

If you’d like more information about the event, please contact Farooq Ansari, Client Partner at Softwire: farooq.ansari@softwire.com.

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Meet the SpeakerLaura Hughes

Dreaming of being a scientist as a child, I joined the world of software after completing a PhD in theoretical cosmology. Throughout my studies it became clear to me that what I enjoy the most is solving problems, simplifying solutions and creating order from chaos – all reasons why I feel very much at home in the world of data engineering. As a technical principal, I design technical solutions to complex data problems. In the rest of my life, I’m a founding member of a somewhat critically acclaimed post-garage-punk band.

Meet the Speaker Steve Westgarth

Steve is the Global Head of Engineering and Architecture at Haleon where he heads up the Software Engineering function focussed on building products that connect consumers to healthcare professionals. As a strategic leader Steve has responsibility for the architecture and design of the systems developed working closely with senior leaders advising and implementing effective delivery management processes.