Public Sector Podcast

In this episode, we catch up with Rob Wilmot, General Manager and Managing Partner, IBM Consulting Canada about why AI is being positioned as a major productivity lever for government, particularly in Canada. Rob outlines the opportunity to move from pilots to real impact by applying AI to practical, high-volume processes and improving citizen experiences. The conversation also covers what it takes to scale responsibly: strong governance and security, a focus on a few initiatives that can be embedded across workflows, and tackling the biggest barrier of all, messy, siloed data. Rob's view is that AI will mostly augment public servants by shifting work away from repetitive tasks and enabling better outcomes. Rob Wilmot, General Manager and Managing Partner, IBM Consulting Canada For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

This week, we are joined by Sarah Soto-Taylor, Deputy Secretary of Strategic Development, California Government Operations Agency and Chris Given, Deputy Secretary for Technology and Innovation, California Government Operations Agency who explore why cross-functional collaboration is essential for turning innovation into real-world impact. By bringing technologists and programme leaders into the same conversations, organisations can ensure emerging tools are aligned with operational priorities and practical needs — not just technical ambition. We learn how to strengthen dialogue between technical and business teams, close the gap between capability and delivery, and create solutions that are relevant, usable and widely adopted. Listeners will gain insights into building more effective collaboration models that drive measurable results. Sarah Soto-Taylor, Deputy Secretary of Strategic Development, California Government Operations Agency and Chris Given, Deputy Secretary for Technology and Innovation, California Government Operations Agency For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

As data breaches become more common, governments need to be ready to respond quickly, clearly and in a way that protects public trust. Join Arilea Sill, Chief Information Access and Privacy Officer, Province of Nova Scotia and Kathy Hartlen, Manager, Privacy Program, Province Nova Scotia as they delve into how the way an agency handles a breach can either undermine confidence or strengthen long-term resilience. Our guests look at practical ways to manage breach response effectively, strengthen privacy and information management, and build a culture that treats data protection as everyone's responsibility. Arilea and Kathy describe lessons from real public sector incidents, how to improve governance and staff readiness, and why transparent communication is critical to maintaining public confidence. Arilea Sill, Chief Information Access and Privacy Officer, Province of Nova Scotia, Kathy Hartlen, Manager, Privacy Program, Province Nova Scotia For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

In this episode, Shawnzia Thomas, State Chief Information Officer and Executive Director, Georgia Technology Authority explores how Georgia is advancing digital transformation by weaving innovation into the fabric of everyday government operations. Shawnzia highlights how leaders are moving beyond pilots and positioning technology as a core driver of smarter, more responsive governance — with a clear focus on delivering outcomes that genuinely improve citizens' lives. From leveraging AI and automation to streamline operations and enhance engagement, to strengthening digital equity and inclusive access, Georgia's approach is both ambitious and practical. The conversation also unpacks how secure cloud adoption, Zero Trust strategies and scalable innovation models are helping build a more resilient, future-ready state. Shawnzia Thomas, State Chief Information Officer and Executive Director, Georgia Technology Authority For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

Tune in this week to hear Peter Floyd, Chief Digital Officer at the Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers, as he shares a practical and people-focused approach to making cyber security everyone's business. He explains why most cyber risk comes from everyday behaviours—not technology—and how organisations can lift awareness and capability across the workforce without extra budget or heavy technical language. Through real examples, Peter shows how short, engaging communications, humour, and simple behavioural nudges can dramatically improve cyber awareness and reduce risk. The episode offers clear, relatable lessons for public sector leaders looking to build a stronger security culture by meeting people where they are and making cyber relevant to their daily work and lives. Peter Floyd, Chief Digital Officer, Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

In our latest episode, David Shanks, Deputy Commissioner of Enterprise and Integrated Integrity Services at Inland Revenue New Zealand, explores how governments can strike the right balance between embracing technological innovation and managing risk. Drawing on personal experience across regulation, digital policy and emerging technology, he reflects on the opportunities AI presents — and the very real harms that can arise when innovation outpaces oversight. Through compelling real-world stories, David argues that opting out of technological change isn't realistic. Instead, public sector leaders must learn to move forward deliberately, paying close attention to early warning signs, lived experience and unintended consequences. The episode offers a thoughtful, grounded perspective on responsible innovation in an age of rapid digital change. David Shanks, Deputy Commissioner, Enterprise and Integrity Services, Inland Revenue NZ For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

In this episode we hear from Sarah Tuneberg, Director, Colorado Digital Services, as she unpacks what Wave 3 of the Digital Government Strategic Plan means in practice for agencies. She walks through key milestones, reflects on lessons learned from recent digital transformation efforts, and discusses how governments can move past long-standing challenges to deliver more innovative, citizen-focused services. The conversation focuses on helping organisations align their priorities with Wave 3 objectives, offering practical strategies to strengthen service delivery, improve outcomes for citizens, and accelerate progress through smarter collaboration and forward-looking approaches. Sarah Tuneberg, Director, Colorado Digital Services For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

In this episode, Shannon Salter — Deputy Minister to the Premier, Cabinet Secretary and Head of the BC Public Service — shares British Columbia's vision to make government feel simple, human and connected by 2030. She outlines how "Connected Services BC" aims to redesign services around real life events, so people experience one coordinated system rather than navigating multiple ministries and programs. Through the story of Amina and lessons from the Civil Resolution Tribunal, Shannon explains why true transformation requires more than new technology: it depends on clear purpose, shared standards, secure data-sharing, and a culture willing to learn and take thoughtful risks. The conversation also explores how improving service delivery can rebuild public trust by making support easier to access—especially for those facing the greatest barriers. Shannon Salter, Deputy Minister to the Premier, Cabinet Secretary and Head of the BC Public Service, Government of British Columbia For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

This episode features The Hon. Victor Dominello, Chief Executive Officer, Future Government Institute, Jacqui Loustau, AWSN Executive Director, Australian Women in Security Network, Shyvone Forster, Director - Cyber Operations, Department of Home Affairs who explore how embracing diversity across skills, backgrounds and ways of thinking can significantly strengthen cyber resilience. The discussion highlights how a broader range of perspectives can spark innovation and lead to more creative approaches to tackling complex security threats. The panel also considers why greater gender, cultural and neurodiverse representation contributes to more adaptable and effective responses within the cyber landscape. Finally, the episode outlines practical steps government can take to build more inclusive hiring practices, develop accessible career pathways and expand leadership opportunities across the sector. The Hon. Victor Dominello, Chief Executive Officer, Future Government Institute, Jacqui Loustau, AWSN Executive Director, Australian Women in Security Network, Shyvone Forster, Director - Cyber Operations, Department of Home Affairs For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

In this episode, we hear from Jennifer Dobell, Chief Operating Officer at the Australian Financial Security Authority (AFSA), as she shares practical, hard-earned insights on closing the digital skills gap in government. Drawing on her experience leading major national and state workforce strategies, Jennifer breaks down what it really takes to align organisational goals, tech strategy, and workforce planning in environments defined by legacy systems, tight budgets, and rising expectations around AI. Jennifer also offers a candid look at AFSA's own transformation toward becoming a contemporary, data-driven regulator — highlighting the importance of service design, data governance, cyber resilience, and uplifting business–tech collaboration. For public sector leaders, HR teams, and digital practitioners, this episode delivers grounded guidance on building a tech workforce that's realistic, capable, and ready for the future. Jennifer Dobell, Chief Operating Officer, Australian Financial Security Authority. For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

What does Aotearoa need to build a truly future-ready public service? This episode brings together Karl Le Quesne, Chief Electoral Officer, Electoral Commission, Glenys Talivai, Chief Executive Officer, Public Trust, Megan Main, CEO, ACC, NZ, Jo Healey, VP, Customer, Fujitsu to examine the core elements shaping government to 2032 — from innovation and iwi partnership to the rise of AI and the evolution of citizen experience. Together, they unpack how these forces are redefining what modern public service delivery looks like, and what it will take to ensure New Zealand's digital transformation remains on track. The discussion explores the public sector's digital roadmap, the role of innovation in lifting productivity, and how meaningful engagement with iwi will guide equitable transformation. Panellists also look ahead to the major digital initiatives on the horizon and how these will change government operations over the next decade. With a focus on designing citizen-centric services and understanding AI's growing influence, the panel outlines what must happen now to prepare Aotearoa for the next generation of public service. Karl Le Quesne, Chief Electoral Officer, Electoral Commission, Glenys Talivai, Chief Executive Officer, Public Trust, Megan Main, CEO, ACC, NZ, Jo Healey, VP, Customer, Fujitsu For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

In this episode, we are joined by Michael Harvey, Information and Privacy Commissioner, Government of British Columbia. Commissioner Harvey shares his insights on what it means to take a rights-first approach to innovation — exploring how embedding privacy from the outset can strengthen public trust, enhance digital service delivery, and ensure that innovation in government remains both responsible and citizen-centered. Michael Harvey, Information and Privacy Commissioner, Government of British Columbia For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

In this insightful episode of the Public Sector Podcast, Sylvester Hubbard, Director of Enterprise Application Services at the Virginia Department of Corrections, takes listeners inside the complex world of data-driven corrections. He explains how the Department manages vast amounts of data—from inmate management and facility security to re-entry programs and workforce operations—and the challenge of connecting these isolated systems to drive smarter, safer, and more effective decision-making. Hubbard shares how his team is using AI, analytics, and modernization to transform correctional operations, improve efficiency, and support rehabilitation. From predictive insights and automated security systems to mobile access and real-time reporting, he demonstrates how innovation can enhance both safety and opportunity—while reminding us that technology is only as powerful as the people who use it with purpose and integrity. Sylvester Hubbard III, Director of Enterprise Application Services, Virginia Department of Corrections For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

When a pre-ransomware cyberattack hit St Vincent's Health Australia, Acting National Director of Corporate Affairs and Communications Elliot Stein found himself leading through uncertainty. In this episode, he takes us inside the tense 72 hours that followed—where every decision, from going public early to engaging government partners, was guided by one principle: trust. Elliot also reflects on the broader lessons learned—from transparent crisis communication to the irreplaceable role of human connection in an age of AI. As he shares candid insights on leadership, reputation, and resilience, this episode reveals how honesty and collaboration can turn a potential crisis into a defining moment of integrity. Elliot Stein, A/National Director Corporate Affairs and Communications, St Vincent's Health Australia For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

In this episode, we explore alongside Ott Velsberg, Government Chief Data Officer, Estonian Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications, how Estonia—a global pioneer in digital transformation—is redefining what's possible with data and artificial intelligence. As one of the most digitally advanced nations in the world, Estonia is moving beyond e-governance to integrate AI across its economy, public services, and daily life. With a firm commitment to transparency, ethics, and citizen trust, the country is building a future where innovation and accountability go hand in hand. Listeners will discover how Estonia's forward-thinking policies, infrastructure, and investments are powering its data economy, driving smarter governance, and setting a global standard for responsible AI adoption. From real-world examples of AI disrupting traditional systems to actionable insights for enhancing competitiveness, this episode offers a roadmap for any organisation looking to harness data and innovation the Estonian way. Ott Velsberg, Government Chief Data Officer, Estonian Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

This episode featuring Dr David Tuffley, Senior Lecturer Senior Fellow | Higher Education Academy School of Information & Communication Technology Institute of Integrated & Intelligent Systems (IIIS), Griffith University, dives into the high-stakes world of cybersecurity at major sporting events, where protecting critical systems like ticketing, broadcasting, and athlete data is non-negotiable. Listeners will hear how organisers implement continuous monitoring to detect and respond to threats in real time, and why success depends on seamless collaboration between local, national, and international cyber teams. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to keep the Games safe, connected, and running smoothly. Dr David Tuffley, Senior Lecturer Senior Fellow | Higher Education Academy School of Information & Communication Technology Institute of Integrated & Intelligent Systems (IIIS), Griffith University For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

Speaking from the perspective of a non-technologist, Jared Cowley Grimmond, Deputy Director General for Water Resource Management, shares the Department’s ongoing digital transformation journey in Queensland. He highlights the importance of getting the foundations right—modernising legacy systems, moving to cloud platforms, and creating online portals—while ensuring services remain accessible for all citizens, not just digital users. Jared emphasises the role of people and focus in making transformation stick: aligning staff, listening to customers, starting small, and learning from both successes and failures. From staff-driven innovations and AI tools for water mapping to lessons learned from other states, his message is clear—digital transformation is as much about culture, collaboration, and governance as it is about technology. Jarrod Cowley-Grimmond (Deputy Director-General, Water Resource Management, Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers) For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

In this episode, we catch up with Michelle Simpson, Strategic Technology Advisor, Office of Digital Government, Department of Premier and Cabinet WA as she dives into the biggest hurdles agencies are facing right now—and more importantly, how to tackle them head-on. From the power of transparency and smarter vendor management, to making the most of the Assurance Review and other Digital Government support, you’ll hear practical insights that can turn challenges into opportunities for success. Michelle Simpson, Strategic Technology Advisor, Office of Digital Government, Department of Premier and Cabinet WA For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

Join Amanda Garcia and Dan Wilkins, CISO for the Arizona Department of Economic Security, as they explore the intersection of AI, automation, and collaboration in public sector cybersecurity. Dan shares practical strategies for building a proactive defense, leveraging emerging tech, and fostering the partnerships essential for resilience in an evolving threat landscape. Dan Wilkens, Chief Information Security Officer, Arizona Department of Economic Security For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

In this episode, Dony Alex, Director of the Data Centre of Excellence with the Government of Alberta, discusses how sustainable data platforms and federated ecosystems can transform siloed information into AI-ready products. He explores the challenges of data governance, the balance between innovation and responsible controls, and how generative AI is democratizing access to insights. Tune in to discover actionable takeaways for building a collaborative data culture and learn why governments can’t afford to fall behind in the race to turn data into impact. Dony Alex, Director – Data Centre of Excellence, Ministry of Technology and Innovation, Government of Alberta For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co