DataFest 2025

Organized by The Data Lab, Scotland’s hub for innovation in data and AI, DataFest stands as Scotland’s premier conference on data and AI, uniting thought leaders to explore and influence the trajectory of these fields. We convene professionals from various sectors, including industry and academia, to share insights, collaborate, and stay updated on the newest advancements in data and AI. Recent years have witnessed a dramatic change in the perception and application of AI technologies, with AI gaining widespread attention and becoming integral to diverse sectors ranging from legal to construction and beyond.

At DataFest 2025, we aim to guide you through the evolving landscape of data and AI with the help of expert voices, as we delve into harnessing these technologies for optimal benefits.

**Featured Speakers (Additional names to be revealed soon!)**
– **Zoe Kleinmann, Technology Editor, BBC**
With more than two decades in broadcasting, Zoe has emerged as a prominent figure in tech journalism, simplifying complex tech topics for a vast audience across BBC’s television, radio, and online channels. Her journey has included unique experiences like drone racing in Nevada’s deserts and a virtual ascent of Mount Everest. She has conducted interviews with tech giants such as Apple’s CEO Tim Cook, reported on Elon Musk’s contentious acquisition of Twitter, and spearheaded BBC’s coverage of the UK government’s AI Safety Summit.

– **Orlando Machado, Chief Data Officer, the LEGO Group**
A renowned data scientist and AI specialist, Orlando Machado has driven digital transformation at leading global firms. As the inaugural Chief Data Officer at the LEGO Group, he has empowered teams at this iconic brand to utilize state-of-the-art technologies while safeguarding the privacy of its key audience: children. A strong advocate for diversity, Orlando has contributed to the Gender Equality Leadership Team at Business in the Community and served as a mentor for the 30% Club. Recognized as a ‘World AI Top 50 Innovator’ in 2022, he also received the 2023 DataIQ Professor Derek Holder lifetime achievement award for his enduring impact on the data sector.

– **Colin Jarvis, Head of Forward Deployed Engineering, OpenAI**
Colin spearheads OpenAI’s Global Forward Deployed Engineering team, which integrates AI solutions into businesses to address pressing challenges. A foremost authority on the real-world implementation of AI, he has overseen technical deployments for companies such as Morgan Stanley, Mercado Libre, and Orange. Colin is enthusiastic about discussing practical AI applications and is deeply committed to using AI and large