Hey, I'm Mal
Data Strategist. AI Advocate. Relentless Innovator.
I'm the VP Data & AI at Cochlear, where I lead data strategy and AI implementation for a global medical device company. Before that, I spent five years at Westpac, enabling data science, big data and AI at scale across one of Australia's largest financial institutions.
With 15+ years of experience, I'm passionate about bringing data and digital to life while keeping the customer experience at the heart of everything. I help global organisations become data-inspired, value-driven, and customer insight centric.
I believe the future of enterprise isn't about the fanciest AI models—it's about building organisations that can actually use them. That means fixing data foundations, building curious teams, and creating cultures that value learning over being right.
Currently: VP Data & AI at Cochlear
2023 - Present
Leading the development and implementation of data strategy across a global organisation. Working with executives to find strategic growth opportunities using data, insights, and advanced analytics. Applying lessons from scaling enterprise data teams to the medical device and life sciences space.
The Journey So Far
VP Data & AI
Cochlear
Leading data strategy and AI implementation for a global medical device and life sciences company. Building modern data platforms and establishing data governance frameworks. Focusing on practical AI applications that deliver real business value.
Executive General Manager, Data & Analytics
Westpac Group
Enabled data science, big data and AI at scale across one of Australia's largest financial institutions. Built and scaled the enterprise data capability from 20 to over 1,000 Data Engineers, Scientists, Analysts, and Product Owners. Led enterprise-wide data transformation, established data governance frameworks, and drove AI/ML implementation across the organisation.
Head of Data
The Smith Family
Led data strategy for Australia's largest children's education charity. Implemented data-driven decision making, established analytics capabilities, and built modern data infrastructure to support the organisation's mission.
Data Leadership Roles
TAL, Medibank & More
Progressive data leadership roles across financial services, insurance, and life sciences, building expertise in enterprise data strategy, analytics, and team development.
What I Do Best
Over 15+ years, I've developed deep expertise in building and scaling data organizations
AI Strategy & Governance
Practical approaches to enterprise AI that actually work. From building data foundations to implementing AI at scale. Focus on business value over technological novelty. Experience with AI governance, ethics, and risk management in regulated industries.
Data Team Building & Leadership
Proven track record scaling teams from 20 to 1000+ people. Expertise in hiring, developing talent, creating career frameworks, and maintaining culture during hyper-growth. Building high-performing teams that deliver business impact.
Enterprise Data Architecture
Modern data platforms that balance innovation with enterprise constraints. Cloud migration strategies, data mesh implementations, and building self-service analytics capabilities. Experience with AWS, Azure, and modern data stacks.
Change Management & Culture
Driving organisational transformation in traditional industries. Creating data-driven cultures, managing stakeholder expectations, and building executive buy-in. Experience navigating complex organisational politics and driving change at scale.
How I Think About Data & AI
Practical Over Perfect
Ship working solutions, iterate based on feedback. Perfect is the enemy of good.
People First, Technology Second
The best tech in the world fails without the right people and culture.
Strategic Vision, Tactical Execution
Think big, start small, move fast. Balance long-term vision with short-term wins.
Beyond the Resume
What Drives Me
I'm passionate about making complex technology accessible and useful. There's nothing more satisfying than seeing a business leader make a better decision because of data we provided, or watching a team member grow into a leadership role.
My Approach
I believe in transparency, direct feedback, and treating people like adults. I'd rather be honest and occasionally wrong than polished and always vague. I value curiosity over credentials, and impact over activity.
Outside of Work
When I'm not thinking about data strategy, I'm likely reading about psychology, behavioural economics, or organisational dynamics. I'm fascinated by how people make decisions and how organizations evolve.
Let's Work Together
Whether you need a speaker, advisor, or want to chat about AI and data strategy...