From Green Screens to AI Strategy: Gillian Docherty’s Data Leadership Journey

She almost didn’t apply.Gillian Docherty is one of the most influential figures in Scotland’s data and AI landscape - but she almost didn’t take the job that changed everything.Recently named CEO of the Year at the DigiTech Awards, Gillian served as CEO of The Data Lab, Scotland’s national Innovation Centre for data and AI. She’s also a TEDx speaker and a vocal advocate for purpose-led leadership and inclusive tech.In this conversation with Michael on A Class Act, Gillian shares her journey, what it really takes to build high-performing, mission-driven teams, and how Scotland can seize its next big opportunity in AI.You’ll hear:What sparked Gillian’s early interest in tech and innovation growing up in ScotlandThe biggest leadership lessons from two decades at IBMHow a last-minute recruiter call changed the trajectory of her careerWhat great leadership looks like across public, academic, and commercial sectorsWhy creating purpose-driven, mission-led teams starts with how you recruitWhere Scotland’s biggest AI and data opportunities areGillian’s view on legacy, leadership, and raising strong, independent daughtersConnect with Gillian Docherty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gillian-docherty/About Your Host: Michael Young is the Managing Director of MBN Solutions and host of A Class Act: Conversations in Data & Leadership. With nearly two decades of experience helping organisations build high-performing data, analytics, and AI teams, he brings frontline insight into what makes exceptional talent and leadership.Please note: The views expressed by Gillian Docherty in this episode are his own and do not reflect those of his current or former employers.Subscribe & Follow: Enjoying the series? Don’t miss an episode. Follow A Class Act wherever you get your podcasts and leave us a review to help more listeners discover these conversations in data and leadership.Connect with MBN Solutions:Michael Young on LinkedIn – Follow Michael for advice on talent acquisition, leadership in data science, and stories from the front lines of tech recruitment. Connect with Michael here.MBN Solutions on LinkedIn – Explore industry updates, groundbreaking projects, and the latest in data and analytics talent. Join the conversation and discover how MBN Solutions is shaping the future of data leadership. Visit the company page here.For questions, guest recommendations, or to connect:Email: [email protected] MBN Solutions website at www.mbnsolutions.com