Public Sector Podcast

In this engaging episode, we hear from Stewart Wong, Vice President of Strategy, Sustainability and Communications, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, as he takes us on a creative and candid journey through one of the hospital's most ambitious challenges: space optimisation during rapid growth. Blending Star Trek metaphors with real-world strategy, Stewart shares how Holland Bloorview responded to a post-pandemic staffing boom, disorganised booking systems, and mismatched clinical workspaces—transforming the chaos into a cohesive, people-first space strategy. From establishing governance and principles to engaging teams in meaningful co-design, this story is about much more than bricks and mortar. It's about building culture, community, and clarity—without a capital expansion. Tune in for practical lessons on innovation, leadership, and turning constraints into catalysts for change. Stewart Wong, Vice President of Strategy, Sustainability and Communications, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital   For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In our latest episode, Natalie Bekis, Assistant Secretary Health Workforce Planning and Strategies Branch, Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care, Fiona Notley, Chief Operating Officer, and Vice President, RMIT delve into the pressing issue of the technology skills shortage in Victoria, unpacking the challenges and opportunities that come with building a resilient, future-ready workforce. It explores how partnerships between the tertiary education sector and the public sector can strengthen the talent pipeline, ensuring that Victoria has the right skills to meet its digital demands. Our listeners will also gain insights into how the Victorian Government can build a strong Employee Value Proposition (EVP) that attracts and retains top talent—from crafting compelling job ads to investing in meaningful employee development. Finally, the episode examines how the public sector can strike the right balance between technology and human resources to optimise workflows and deliver better outcomes for Victorians. Natalie Bekis, Assistant Secretary Health Workforce Planning and Strategies Branch, Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care, Fiona Notley, Chief Operating Officer, and Vice President, RMIT For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

This episode features Dr. Krista Jangaard, President and CEO of IWK Health Centre in Nova Scotia, sharing how her organisation is navigating one of the most ambitious healthcare transformations in the province's history. Dr. Jangaard reflects on what it means to modernise health systems in a time of volatility and opportunity—from integrating digital tools like "YourHealthNS" and a provincial health record, to tackling big issues like staffing, infrastructure, and patient access. She also unpacks Nova Scotia's Action for Health strategy, exploring how real-world listening tours, system-wide collaboration, and governance reform are helping shape a more inclusive, data-informed, and people-centred future for care delivery. Expect honest lessons on leadership, the pitfalls of “shiny object syndrome,” and why transformation in healthcare is about balance—moving faster where possible, while pausing to reflect where it matters most. Krista Jangaard President and CEO, IWK Health For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In this panel discussion, leaders from Colorado public sector sit down together and discuss what their priorities are in 2025 and beyond, and how to ensure they are successful.   Heather Weir, Senior Director of Strategy, Performance and Admin Office, Colorado Governor's Office of Information Technology Andrea Day, Senior Information Technology Director, Customer Office, Colorado Governor's Office of Information Technology Morgan Reed, AWS Executive Government Advisor, Amazon Web Services Moderator: Len Zheleznyak, Lead of Value, Strategy, and Innovation for State and Local Government Google Cloud.   For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co    

In this candid and compelling episode, Alex Benay and Karen Figuerola share an unfiltered look at the cultural and systemic issues behind Canada's HR and pay challenges—and the bold transformation underway to fix them. From the $7 billion Phoenix failure to the rollout of Dayforce, Alex explains why fixing the tech alone isn't enough. True change, he argues, starts with shifting behaviours, embracing radical transparency, and putting people at the centre of every decision. With real talk on AI, automation, executive accountability, and the power of user-centred design, this episode is both a wake-up call and a roadmap for leading transformation in the public sector. If you care about meaningful change, leadership that's unafraid to fail, and building systems that simply work, you won't want to miss it. Alex Benay, Associate Deputy Minister, (Enterprise Pay Coordination), Public Services and Procurement, Karen Figuerola, Partner, People Consulting, EY.   For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In this episode of Public Sector Podcast, Ireland's Government Chief Information Officer shares the country's journey from traditional e-government to a bold, citizen-centred digital transformation. With a focus on inclusion, trust, and user-first design, Ireland is rethinking how government services are delivered—one life event at a time. Discover how Ireland is building shared infrastructure, adopting agile practices, and aligning with EU digital standards, all while navigating legislative hurdles and cultural change. Whether you're in policy, IT, or service delivery, this episode offers valuable lessons for governments striving to meet people where they are—both online and offline. Barry Lowry, CIO, Government of Ireland. For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Join us in this insightful podcast as we sit down with Kimberly Roy Wilson, Commissioner, Information Technology & Services Division, City of Cleveland, to explore Ohio local government's challenges and opportunities in innovation and technology. Kimberly Roy Wilson Commissioner, Information Technology & Services Division, City of Cleveland For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In this episode, Ima Okonny, Chief Data Officer, Assistant Deputy Minister, Employment and Social Development Canada shares how one of Canada's largest federal departments is using data, AI, and innovation to deliver more inclusive and responsive public services. The conversation explores the importance of building a strong data foundation, developing ethical and transparent AI practices, and ensuring no citizen is left behind. Listeners will hear how ESDC is tackling demographic change, accessibility needs, and complex service delivery through in-house AI development, integrated data strategies, and a culture of trust and transparency. Whether you're in government, tech, or policy, this episode offers valuable insights into what it takes to lead digital transformation with purpose. Ima Okonny, Chief Data Officer, Assistant Deputy Minister, Employment and Social Development Canada For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Join us in this insightful podcast as we sit down with Sophia Mohr, Chief Innovation and Technology Officer, Central Ohio Transit Authority, to explore how to maximize the impact of technology, data and AI applications in public sector. Sophia Mohr, Chief Innovation and Technology Officer, Central Ohio Transit Authority For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In this episode, Darren Van Sommeren discusses the future of cybersecurity in South Australia heading into 2025. He outlines the rise in sophisticated cyber threats, driven by geopolitical instability, and calls for collaboration over fear as the key to resilience. Darren also unpacks how AI is reshaping the threat landscape, from deepfakes to phishing, and highlights the need for proactive defence strategies like threat hunting and clear communication to stay ahead. He emphasises that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, requiring coordination across government, industry, and the community. With a realistic yet hopeful outlook, Darren encourages organisations to stay alert, informed, and united in the face of growing digital threats. Darryn Van Someren Acting Government Chief Information Security Officer, Department of Treasury and Finance, SA For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co    

In this episode, we join Matt Opie in a deep dive into the future of defence innovation and workforce development in South Australia. This episode explores key defence and space sector priorities for 2025 and beyond, strategies to build a skilled workforce pipeline, and how to accelerate innovation within SA's defence ecosystem. Matt also discusses the power of collaboration between industry, government, academia, and defence to drive technological advancements and strengthen Australia's defence capabilities. Tune in to gain insights on how South Australia is positioning itself as a leader in defence innovation and capability development. Matt Opie, CEO, Defence SA For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Join Susan Pearce as she explores the future of personalised, digitally enabled healthcare in New South Wales, unpacking key successes and priorities for 2025. In this episode, she discusses how value-based care is transforming patient outcomes, the importance of integrating digital tools with human connection, and how collaboration and partnerships are driving innovation across the healthcare sector. Susan shares insights on striking the right balance between digitisation, self-service, and maintaining the human touch, ensuring that technology enhances rather than replaces meaningful patient care. Tune in to discover how NSW Health is reshaping healthcare delivery to be more connected, efficient, and patient-focused. Susan Pearce, Secretary, NSW Health For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In this episode, Dannielle from Trillium Health Partners discusses strategies for addressing workforce challenges in Canadian healthcare. She shares insights on optimizing staffing models through flexible work arrangements and task delegation, while balancing cost control and preventing burnout. Dannielle highlights the importance of training and upskilling initiatives, which have improved staff retention and patient care, and calls for broader support for professional development. She also explores how Trillium leverages technology, like automation and AI, to reduce administrative burdens and enhance efficiency. Addressing the skilled worker shortage, Dannielle emphasizes collaboration between healthcare providers, educational institutions, and government agencies for sustainable solutions. Looking ahead, she shares trends in workforce management and offers advice for HR leaders navigating labor cost and staffing challenges. A valuable listen for healthcare professionals seeking innovative solutions. Danielle Sanagan Chief Human Resources Officer/VP People Servces, Trillium Health Parnters For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co    

In this episode Jennifer Franks reveals how Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) is revolutionising cybersecurity in government. Unlike traditional security models, ZTA eliminates implicit trust by enforcing continuous verification, strict identity authentication, and least privilege access, ensuring robust protection against unauthorised access and data breaches. The discussion highlights critical gaps in inventory and access management faced by federal agencies and emphasises the need for continuous monitoring and cataloging of data and network assets. We also examine how ZTA is an ongoing security process, requiring a phased implementation approach and continuous security awareness training to adapt to emerging cyber threats. Tune in to learn how Zero Trust is transforming cybersecurity into a proactive and resilient defence model for the public sector. Jennifer Franks, Director Center for Enhanced  Cybersecurity, GAO For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In this episode of Public Sector Podcast, we explore how AI is transforming digital government services. The Georgia Technology Authority is leading the way by developing an AI governance framework that focuses on responsible and ethical AI adoption. Key initiatives include workforce training, operational efficiencies powered by AI, and strategic partnerships to ensure transparent and equitable implementation. As AI becomes the next major experience layer in public services, this episode examines how governments can prepare for an AI-driven future by investing in AI literacy, establishing ethical guardrails, and maintaining human oversight in decision-making. Nikhil J Deshpande, Chief Digital & AI Officer, Office of Digital Services & Solutions, Georgia Technology Authority, State of Georgia   For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Herbert Paguas explores how Uruguay's government has used digital technology to improve public services and what others can learn from their approach. He looks at the challenges they faced during their digital transformation, how they tackled them, and the impact on economic growth, social inclusion, and citizen engagement. Uruguay's journey offers valuable insights into building a more connected and efficient digital society. Herbert Paguas Executive Director, National Agency for e-Government and Information Society (AGESIC)- Uruguay For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Here, Angela Shell dives into ways to make procurement more efficient, sustainable, and inclusive. She covers how technology is improving transparency, strategies for choosing eco-friendly products, and ways to get the most value from group purchasing agreements. Angela also looks at how to create more opportunities for diverse suppliers, like small and minority-owned businesses, and explores innovative bidding methods, such as reverse auctions, to streamline procurement. Angela Shell, Chief Procurement Officer, Department of General Services (DGS) For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Join James Bates as he delves into the best ways to reach citizens and earn their trust in public services - through listening and acting on feedback. James walks through the huge improvements NSW government has made in collecting data and using it successfully to learn about its citizens, comparing the process from pre to post-pandemic arenas and how current behavioural data sets prove that when the government shows that it is listening and doing what it says its going to do, creates trust. He highlights with examples from the NSW government, the importance of inclusion in building trust in citizens and the key to great service design and delivery. James Bates, Executive Director Customer, Data and Insights | Chief Data Officer, Department of Customer Service. For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Every project, big or small, comes with the risk of not meeting its goals in terms of value, cost, or timing. Join Prashant Bakshi as he shares insights on finding the right balance between quality and speed. Customers often prefer a product that's "good enough" if it's delivered on time, but many projects miss this expectation by over-focusing on quality. On the flip side, some projects are completed within budget and schedule but still fail to meet customer needs. Prashant will discuss his experiences leading projects where balancing quality, cost, and timeliness was crucial, while always keeping the end goal in focus. Prashant Bakshi, Chief Customer Officer, New Zealand Qualifications Authority For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co      

In this interview, Katie Alexander from Australian Psychological Services and Charlie Hamer, co-founder of Public Sector Network, discuss how public sector organisations can create inclusive workplaces for neurodivergent and psychosocially diverse employees. Learn about the challenges in recruitment, how to avoid biases, and the importance of a strengths-based approach. This video provides practical HR leadership insights to foster an inclusive, diverse workforce in the public sector. Explore strategies for making reasonable adjustments and supporting neurodivergent individuals in your team. Katie Alexander, Organisational Psychologist and Principal Consultant, Australian Psychological Services For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In this Government Keynote session, we hear insights from Raj Thuppal, Executive Vice-President, Shared Services Canada on his department's new strategic direction to accelerate progress in areas of digital services, connectivity, hosting and cyber security. Our government leader describes how to collaborate with partners and clients for a world-class enterprise-wide government IT and digital landscape and he discusses how he and his team have been improving digital service delivery through Canada's Digital Ambition. Raj Thuppal, Executive Vice-President, Shared Services Canada For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In a recent discussion led by Charlie Hamer, co-founder of the Public Sector Network, he converses with Pete Saunders, a facilitator renowned for his expertise in customer journey mapping and service blueprinting. Their dialogue illuminates the importance of enhancing public service sector service delivery. Pete Saunders , Consultant, Pete Saunders Consulting For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In a vibrant discussion led by Charlie Hamer, co-founder of the Public Sector Network, he converses with Mustafa Ghulam, a facilitator renowned for his expertise in change management and digital transformation. Their dialogue illuminates the importance of adaptable leadership in the ever-evolving landscape of the public sector.  Mustafa Ghulam, Transformation and Process Specialist For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

The Employment Development Department serves millions of Californians through dedicated programs and services like unemployment and disability benefits, Paid Family Leave, workforce services and more. They've been on a long-term transformation project to upgrade their IT infrastructure.  Ron Hughes, the Deputy Director for EDDNext, has three decades in IT leadership with a specific focus on large-scale digital transformation projects.  He'll be sharing what a 5 year IT modernisation project looks like in just 15 minutes.  Ron Hughes the Deputy Director for EDDNext For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Building a successful business case is difficult for a number of reasons. It's important to craft a narrative that appeals to decision-makers, capturing a variety of user-benefits often involves extensive collaboration, and the project has to align with the overarching objectives of the organisation. In this episode, Stuart Watt, CIO of the Department of Primary Industries and Trade shares how he built the business case for microservices in South Australian government. Stuart Watt, CIO, Department of Primary Industries and Regions SA For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In a dynamic conversation, co-founder of Public Sector Network, Charlie Hamer engaged with Blue Chameleon Corporate Consultant, Nicky Bull, who illuminated the evolving landscape of data skills necessary for effective reporting and analysis. Nicky Bull, Corporate Consultant, Blue Chameleon For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In a world where effective leadership can shape the future, Charlie Hamer, co-founder of the Public Sector Network, recently engaged in a thought-provoking conversation with leadership expert Malcolm Dawes. Their discussion delved into the essence of leadership in the public sector, highlighting skills that go beyond mere management. Malcolm Dawes, Managing Director, dta WORLDWIDE. For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In an insightful interview with Charlie Hamer, co-founder of the Public Sector Network, design research leader Carmine Mastrantone discusses actionable methods for creating citizen-centric solutions that can greatly enhance service delivery. Carmine Mastrantone, Design research Leader & Mentor. For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Hear from Virginia senior data leaders on how organizations can drive innovation and decision-making, enhance efficiency, protect data privacy, and foster a data-driven culture by synergizing data and technology through effective integration strategies and promoting data literacy.   Chris Burroughs, Director Data Protection and Governance, Commonwealth of Virginia, Office of the Secretary of Administration, Office of Data Governance and Analytics Ravi Padma, Chief Technology Officer, Virginia Department of Veterans Services Alex DerHovhannessian, Senior Vice President, Voyatek Moderator: Bill Greeves, Industry Advisor for State and Local Government, SAP   For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Cyber security is a highly regulated, complex mission. Collaboration among global alliances is an opportunity for Australia to learn from wrong-turns and become a fast-follower. Tune in to this week's episode where Helge Janicke, the Deputy CEO and Research Director for the Cyber Security Cooperative Research Centre, shares how distinct types of collaboration enables both operational updates and strategic policy alignment as well as how to keep up to date with the rapid changes in technology. Helge Janicke, Deputy CEO/Research Director, Cyber Security Cooperative Research Centre. For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

Over 1 million Queenslanders don't have access to connectivity either through a lack of resources or education. Digital inclusion has played a critical role in improving Queensland's development and economic outcomes. Tune in to this week's episode where Chris McLaren, the Queensland Government Chief Customer and Digital Officer delivers a case study in inclusive growth that benefits all citizens - a philosophy for government servicing that is paving the way government is responding to the state's needs, including a world-first first-nations digital services program. Chris McLaren, Queensland Government Chief Customer and Digital Officer For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In this panel, three Manitoba public sector executives discussed the current state of digital transformation in Manitoba's public sector. They also highlighted success stories involving AI and Machine Learning, Blockchain, and IoT, etc. The panel also examined the key tech trends shaping the public sector, focusing on the opportunities these technologies present and the challenges faced in their adoption. Jeremy Read, CEO, The University of Winnipeg Beverlie Stuart, Vice President, Business and Organizational Development, Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology Diane Burelle, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Coordinator, City of Winnipeg. For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Courts have not historically been innovators of the public service, however COVID became impetus to forgo legacy paper-based records in favor of digitised data governance. Hear from Richard Hodge, the Director of Innovation and Service Experience at the Magistrates Court of Victoria, on how this transformation has affected both performance and service levels. From catering to a diverse range of legal services to meeting the complex justice-related needs of Melbourne's culturally rich meltingpot, this is a case study in designing an authentically accessible, inclusive and equitable, human-centered user-experience for public servicing.  Richard Hodge, Director, Innovation & Service Experience, Magistrates' Court of Victoria For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co    

How can organizations build an agile, diverse workforce in the age of AI and automation? This episode tackles that pressing question with Shakira Naraine, Chief People Officer of the Toronto Transit Commission. Shakira delves into practical strategies for implementing successful remote work policies, leveraging AI to enhance workforce capabilities, and fostering genuine inclusivity in government organizations. She shares real-world examples from the TTC's initiatives, including their innovative mentorship program and AI-assisted recruitment process. Tune in to discover how modern leaders are balancing technological advancement with human-centered policies to create adaptable, equitable workplaces. Shakira Naraine, Chief People Officer, Toronto Transit Commission For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Markus shares the nine focus point on how to build a future ready public sector of leadership and service-focused excellence: Visionary leadership, citizen-centric approach, talent acquisition and development, technological innovation, collaborative partnerships, agility and flexibility, accountability and transparency, diversity inclusion, and performance measurement and improvement. Markus Chambers, Deputy Mayor, City of Winnipeg & Chair of Innovation and Economic Development and Chair Winnipeg Police Board City Councillor, City of Winnipeg. For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Over the next ten years, automation is expected to affect half of Canadians' jobs. In this episode, Simone Atungo, Assistant Deputy Minister of Workforce Policy and Innovation Division at the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development, explores the profound impact of automation on the future of work. Simone discusses how the adoption of automation is transforming workplaces and changing the skills required for workers, highlighting the need for workers to upgrade their skills or acquire new ones to adapt to these changes. Tune in to learn about the strategies and actions being taken by Ontario's Ministry of Labour to ensure a smooth transition for both employers and employees in navigating this digital transformation. Simone Atungo, Assistant Deputy Minister of Workforce Policy and Innovation Division (Employment), Ontario Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development   For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Compared to Australia and other OECD countries, the state of Victoria has the highest access to afterhours care, is comparably one of the top three in care-coordination, one of the highest in follow-up care and lowest in costs. With the aim of becoming the best in the world, eHealth was established in 2024 with a vision to drive excellence in analytics and digital tech to deliver world-class healthcare. Tune in for a snapshot from Lance Emerson, Deputy Secretary, eHealth, Victoria Department of Health into how the health sector is using advanced analytics, AI, digital twins and machine learning to transform Victoria and beyond. Lance Emerson, Deputy Secretary, eHealth, Victoria Department of Health. For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Innovation can pose a lot of challenges to the public sector. How can state government innovate at the pace of industry? When new technologies can pose a risk as much as an opportunity, how can government respond with innovation in risk-adverse environments? What does it mean to lead innovation strategies from the ground-up?   In four short stories from across NSW, hear how leadership is working collaboratively across government, responding to the changing expectations of customers and taking innovative solutions from the frontline to scale organisation-wide.   Andrew George, Chief Executive Officer, WaterNSW Megan Stiffler, Deputy Commissioner, Fire & Rescue NSW John Cleland, Chief Executive Officer, Essential Energy Alexandra Geddes, Executive Director, Programs & Innovation, NSW Environment Protection Authority.   For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In recent research conducted by the Office of Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC), 89% of Australians wanted Government to pass more legislation that protects their personal information. In this modern data economy, Carly Kind, Privacy Commissioner with OAIC likens our daily interactions with online privacy allowances as "death by a thousand cuts".    In her keynote session at Innovate Australia Carly outlines how modern, technologically neutral, robust regulatory protections alongside a new Digital Identity system are key to ensuring business and government can safely innovate and strengthen public trust.   For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Workforce planning is a massive juggling act at any time. But throw into the mix a dispersed workforce of thousands that needs to scale up and down swiftly and literal life or death situations and the challenge seems neigh on impossible. Fire & Rescue NSW have taken steps to streamline and optimise their workforce planning initiatives in recent years in a bid to best manage the task. We chat to Jeremy Fewtrell, Commissioner with Fire and Rescue NSW to learn how the power of leadership, Diversity and Equity initiatives, and a navigation of workplace culture is helping to ensure the agency is ready for - literally - anything. Jeremy Fewtrell, Commissioner with Fire and Rescue NSW For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In an era fuelled by the promise of AI, the UK public sector stands at the cusp of transformation. Embracing the hype surrounding AI, government leaders navigate the delicate balance between innovation and risk. While the potential benefits are tantalising, the path forward requires a nuanced approach, considering factors like organisational culture, digital maturity, and the ever-present spectre of unintended consequences. Mike Hill, Chief Data & Information Officer with the UK Cabinet Office discusses how the UK government aims to unlock AI's full potential to revolutionise public services and citizen outcomes. For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

The Office of Data and Innovation (ODI) in California is spearheading initiatives to enhance data usability and democratization. Through accelerators like the Data Science Accelerator and Modern Data Stack Accelerator, ODI facilitates the adoption of data science and modern tools statewide. By offering tailored solutions and fostering collaboration, ensures that departments leverage data effectively, leading to informed decision-making and improved services for Californians. Kim Hicks and Jason Lally deep dive, plus share use cases in housing and water supply shortages in this weeks episode of the Public Sector Podcast. Kimberly Hicks, Deputy Director, Advanced Analytics & Evaluation, California Office of Data and Innovation Jason Lally, Deputy Director, Data Services and Engineering, California Office of Data and Innovation. For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

The Victorian Government of Australia prides itself on building a vibrant cyber economy to, not only deliver safe and reliable government services, but to make Victoria a cyber safe place to live, learn and work. To achieve this cross-sector partnership with education providers, government entities and private tech-sector operators is a crucial building block. David Latina, discusses how Victoria is working towards their mission of being a global cyber security powerhouse in this week's episode of the Public Sector Podcast. David Latina, Deputy Secretary, Industry & Innovation Group, Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry & Regions For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In a world of perpetual change, navigating digital transformation parallels the phases of societal evolution. From galvanizing momentum to the sobering reality of implementation, each stage demands strategic adaptation. Yet, sustaining innovation requires more than initial enthusiasm; it necessitates a shift in mindset towards everyday creativity. Daphnée Nostrome, Director, Channel Strategy at the Canadian Digital Service discusses the Digital Stress Scale, and how leaders must foster divergent thinking, recognising that innovation thrives in collaboration, not isolation in this week's episode. Daphnée Nostrome, Director, Channel Strategy, Canadian Digital Service For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In the last 12 months Artificial Intelligence has gone from a topic relegated to tech functions to a focus of many company leaders. In fact AI, and specifically Gen AI (yes ChatGPT, we're talking about you) has become a dinner table conversation topic for people from all walks of life. With the jump from Science Fiction films to the boardroom, knowing how to strategically, ethically and responsibly experiment with AI tools to pilot initiatives is crucial. Michael Rowell and Fawad Abro of the Australian Taxation Office discuss practical steps to build an AI-ready culture. Michael Rowell, Deputy Commissioner, Data, Integration & Service Management & Fawad Abro, Assistant Commissioner, Enterprise Data & Analytics, Australian Taxation Office For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Globally 48% of public sector professionals agree that talent attraction and retention is their top challenge. While government can rarely compete with private sector peers monetarily, government offers its own unique value proposition - namely by appealing to talent seeking a greater sense of purpose and belonging. By harnessing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives and by fostering environments that prioritising well-being, government stands to attract a new generation of talent eager to contribute meaningfully. Achieving DE&I though can't be done in isolation and is definitely not a 'HR Initiative.' Tracy Jones-Grant, Managing Director, Diversity & Inclusion at Halifax Regional Municipality chats to us about how to make equity, diversity and inclusion a part of your organisational transformation. Tracy Jones-Grant, Managing Director, Diversity & Inclusion, Halifax Regional Municipality For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Most citizens are excited by the prospect of greater digital government services and the convenience, speed and ease of self-serve platforms. However questions around government's ability to keep data safe and to use technology, like AI, in ethical ways threaten progress. How then can government build and maintain citizen confidence as we move towards automation and self service? Daniel Ramos, GM Digital Identity at the ACCC discusses the five elements of success in this week's Public Sector Podcast. Daniel Ramos, General Manager, Digital Identity, ACCC For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Companies throughout the world have prioritised Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in recent years, aiming to make a good impact on society and the environment. B Corp accreditation, a globally recognised benchmark for organisations that prioritise both purpose and profit, is one effective approach to demonstrate a commitment to these principles. Recently Public Sector Network, or PSN, was again recertified as a B Corp so we sat down with the business' Global Head of People and Purpose, Gemma Mills to chat all things social responsibility, living and practicing the B Corp ethos and how PSN is working to reduce waste in the events industry - the second biggest waste production industry ourside of construction. Gemma Mills, Global Head of People & Purpose, Public Sector Network For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Community safety is the cornerstone of social cohesion, fostering trust and unity among residents. When people feel secure in their environment, they are more likely to engage positively with one another, leading to stronger bonds and collaborative efforts that enhance overall well-being, resilience, and shared prosperity within the community. In this week's epsidoe of the Public Sector Podcast Mayor Mike Savage discusses the importance of developing specific community safety units - outside of emergency service units - and the outcomes of incorporating a Municipality-wide public safety strategy on crime rates. Mayor Mike Savage, Halifax Regional Municipality.  

International Women's Day isn't country or organisation specific. It's a day of collective global activism and celebration that belongs to all those committed to forging women's equality. In recent years the narrative around international women's day has changed though, with some arguing that it's become ‘corporatised' and ‘performative' as to lose all meaning. Which is why in this week's episode of the Public Sector Podcast we've chosen to focus on the tangible – the strategies and transformations doing their part to drive action and change for women in the workforce. Isabeau Korpel, Melissa Martino and Sue-Ann Charlton discuss strategies to breakdown class ceilings and accelerate womens' opportunities in the workplace in a special edition of the Public Sector Podcast. Isabeau Korpel, Exec Director People and Culture, Department of Transport WA Sue-Ann Charlton, Exec Director People and Performance, Department of Human Services SA Melissa Martino, Exec Director People and Innovation, Magistrates Court of Victoria For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

International Women's Day is a day to recognise how far we've come towards gender equality, and also how far we have left to go. Don't get us wrong - a little over a hundred years ago only a handful of countries allowed women to vote and equal pay for equal work was unheard of. We're making strides in the right direction, but there's still more work to be done. In recognition of IWD we've bought together a panel of women leaders making considerable contributions to their respective organizations in the pursuit of women's empowerment, belonging and relevance. Dr Jessica Jones, Michaela Doelman and Silvia Fraser discuss the importance of investing in women and accelerating progress in this week's episode of the Public Sector Podcast.     Michaela Doelman, Chief Human Resources Officer, State of Washington Silvia Fraser, Director, Transformation, Workplace Strategies, ModernTO, City of Toronto Dr Jessica Jones, State Director for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging, State of Louisiana   For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co