Data Radicals · 2025-04-30 · 50 min
What does it take to turn AI hype into operational value at enterprise scale? In this episode of Data Radicals , host Satyen Sangani sits down with Todd James, former Chief Data and Technology Officer at 84.51° and Kroger executive, to unpack the realities of leading AI transformation inside one of America’s largest grocery retailers. Drawing on a career that spans the Coast Guard, consulting, and Fortune 100 leadership, Todd shares how scaling AI isn’t just about building advanced algorithms - it’s about solving real problems, embedding with the business, and building reusable infrastructure that lasts. “If the people at the consumption end of your sciences aren’t bought in, they don’t get implemented.” Listen to this episode to learn: How effective leaders “delegate to innovate” and create space for team growth How AI reduced Kroger’s pick-order travel time by 10% and truck route distance by 8.6% Why the CDO role is likely transitional - and what’s next for data leadership What it takes to embed data science into the operational core of a business This conversation is a must-listen for anyone building AI programs, leading data teams, or navigating digital transformation.
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