A Class Act: Conversations in Data and Leadership
What does it really take to build world-class tech teams and lead with impact in today’s data-driven world?
I’m Michael Young from MBN Solutions and after two decades placing top talent across data, AI, and tech, I’ve seen the real stories behind high-performing teams.
On A Class Act, we go beyond buzzwords. You’ll hear real life, experience-led conversations with the leaders shaping digital transformation - those hiring top tech talent, building data science capability, and leading with purpose.
Whether you're a data leader, people manager, or recruiter, join us for honest, human-first insights into leadership, strategy, and building great teams in tech.
Follow A Class Act for honest, human-first leadership conversations in the data and tech space.
A Class Act: Conversations in Data and Leadership
S1E1: 35 Years in Data: Lessons on Leadership & Lasting Impact with Graeme McDermott
What does it take to thrive across 35 years in data leadership? And how do you build high-performing teams – not just for now, but for the future?
In this inaugural episode of A Class Act: Conversations in Data & Leadership, Michael Young sits down with a true veteran of the data world: Graeme McDermott, Chief Data Officer at Tempcover.
From his early actuarial days to leading enterprise data transformations through five company acquisitions, Graeme brings insights into what makes a modern data leader tick – and stick.
But this conversation isn’t just about strategy or statistics. It’s also a real, and revealing look at the human side of leadership: the power of trust, the cost of tough decisions, and the long game of building both teams and friendships that last decades.
Expect stories and every aspiring leader needs to hear.
In this episode, they explore:
- What 35 years in data leadership teaches you (and why Graeme is still not done learning)
- How to build high-performing teams in high-pressure environments
- The shift from transactional to trusted relationships – in business and beyond
- Why some data leaders succeed short-term, but fail to scale
- The power of mentorship, memory, and making the complex feel simple
If you lead (or aspire to lead) in the world of data, analytics, or digital transformation – this is a must-listen.
Connect with Michael and MBN Solutions:
Michael Young on LinkedIn – Follow Michael for advice on talent acquisition, leadership in data science, and stories from the front lines of tech recruitment. Connect with Michael here.
MBN Solutions on LinkedIn – Explore industry updates, groundbreaking projects, and the latest in data and analytics talent. Join the conversation and discover how MBN Solutions is shaping the future of data leadership. Visit the company page here.
Connect with Graeme McDermott on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chiefdataanalyticsofficerlondon/
For questions, guest recommendations, or to connect:
Email: michael@mbnsolutions.com
Visit MBN Solutions website at www.mbnsolutions.com