Data & AI Strategy: AI is ready… is your data?

18 June 2026 17:30-20.30

We’re excited to invite you to an exclusive event on 18 June 2026 at Blackfriars Restaurant, Newcastle, where you can hear from experts at Softcat and Oakland, who will talk through what it takes to create an impactful data and AI strategy that helps unlock business value.

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What to expect on the day?

A focus on real-world use cases from Oakland and Softcat, showcasing value-adding data and AI strategies developed for clients.
We will address common challenges organisations encounter when creating a data and AI strategy or making sure their existing data strategy is fit for purpose in an AI world.
Key watch-outs and considerations for developing an effective data and AI strategy will be highlighted.
Guidance on how to engage your business and secure buy-in for data and AI strategy initiatives will be provided.

Speaker: Craig Lambert – Data & AI Strategy Lead

Craig helps organisations turn big data and AI ambitions into real, measurable value.

With 15+ years’ experience across consulting and industry, he’s led major transformation programmes spanning strategy, operating models, and delivery.

At Oakland, he works closely with senior leaders to cut through complexity and focus on what actually moves the needle.

Craig has developed data and AI strategies for organisations including the Information Commissioner’s Office, University of Southampton, Animal Care, S&W, and Simplify, to name a few – always with a focus on delivering outcomes, not just a plan that sits on a shelf.

He brings a pragmatic, down-to-earth approach to strategy, helping teams move faster, stay focused, and unlock value sooner.

Speaker: Archit Mehra – Lead Business Development Manager

Archit works with organisations to turn data and AI ideas into practical, valuable outcomes.

With a background in both strategy and hands-on delivery, he’s helped teams across government, defence, and industry design and implement data platforms, AI solutions, and roadmaps that actually stick.

He’s passionate about making complex technology feel simple, relevant, and useful.

Before Oakland, Archit led Data & AI Consulting at Methods Analytics, delivering high-impact work across the public sector from GenAI tools to organisation-wide strategies. He’s known for being a trusted partner to clients helping them navigate where to start, what to prioritise, and how to make progress with confidence.

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Email: hello@weareoakland.com Phone: 0113 234 1944

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