Bridging the Digital Skills Gap in Government - Jennifer Dobell - Episode 162

In this episode, we hear from Jennifer Dobell, Chief Operating Officer at the Australian Financial Security Authority (AFSA), as she shares practical, hard-earned insights on closing the digital skills gap in government. Drawing on her experience leading major national and state workforce strategies, Jennifer breaks down what it really takes to align organisational goals, tech strategy, and workforce planning in environments defined by legacy systems, tight budgets, and rising expectations around AI. Jennifer also offers a candid look at AFSA's own transformation toward becoming a contemporary, data-driven regulator — highlighting the importance of service design, data governance, cyber resilience, and uplifting business–tech collaboration. For public sector leaders, HR teams, and digital practitioners, this episode delivers grounded guidance on building a tech workforce that's realistic, capable, and ready for the future. Jennifer Dobell, Chief Operating Officer, Australian Financial Security Authority. For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co        

What does Aotearoa need to build a truly future-ready public service? This  episode brings together  Karl Le Quesne, Chief Electoral Officer, Electoral Commission, Glenys Talivai, Chief Executive Officer, Public Trust, Megan Main, CEO, ACC, NZ, Jo Healey, VP, Customer, Fujitsu to examine the core elements shaping government to 2032 — from innovation and iwi partnership to the rise of AI and the evolution of citizen experience. Together, they unpack how these forces are redefining what modern public service delivery looks like, and what it will take to ensure New Zealand's digital transformation remains on track. The discussion explores the public sector's digital roadmap, the role of innovation in lifting productivity, and how meaningful engagement with iwi will guide equitable transformation. Panellists also look ahead to the major digital initiatives on the horizon and how these will change government operations over the next decade. With a focus on designing citizen-centric services and understanding AI's growing influence, the panel outlines what must happen now to prepare Aotearoa for the next generation of public service.   Karl Le Quesne, Chief Electoral Officer, Electoral Commission, Glenys Talivai, Chief Executive Officer, Public Trust, Megan Main, CEO, ACC, NZ, Jo Healey, VP, Customer, Fujitsu For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In this episode, we are joined by Michael Harvey, Information and Privacy Commissioner, Government of British Columbia. Commissioner Harvey shares his insights on what it means to take a rights-first approach to innovation — exploring how embedding privacy from the outset can strengthen public trust, enhance digital service delivery, and ensure that innovation in government remains both responsible and citizen-centered. Michael Harvey, Information and Privacy Commissioner, Government of British Columbia For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co      

In this insightful episode of the Public Sector Podcast, Sylvester Hubbard, Director of Enterprise Application Services at the Virginia Department of Corrections, takes listeners inside the complex world of data-driven corrections. He explains how the Department manages vast amounts of data—from inmate management and facility security to re-entry programs and workforce operations—and the challenge of connecting these isolated systems to drive smarter, safer, and more effective decision-making. Hubbard shares how his team is using AI, analytics, and modernization to transform correctional operations, improve efficiency, and support rehabilitation. From predictive insights and automated security systems to mobile access and real-time reporting, he demonstrates how innovation can enhance both safety and opportunity—while reminding us that technology is only as powerful as the people who use it with purpose and integrity. Sylvester Hubbard III, Director of Enterprise Application Services, Virginia Department of Corrections For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

When a pre-ransomware cyberattack hit St Vincent's Health Australia, Acting National Director of Corporate Affairs and Communications Elliot Stein found himself leading through uncertainty. In this episode, he takes us inside the tense 72 hours that followed—where every decision, from going public early to engaging government partners, was guided by one principle: trust. Elliot also reflects on the broader lessons learned—from transparent crisis communication to the irreplaceable role of human connection in an age of AI. As he shares candid insights on leadership, reputation, and resilience, this episode reveals how honesty and collaboration can turn a potential crisis into a defining moment of integrity. Elliot Stein, A/National Director Corporate Affairs and Communications, St Vincent's Health Australia For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In this episode, we explore alongside Ott Velsberg, Government Chief Data Officer, Estonian Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications, how Estonia—a global pioneer in digital transformation—is redefining what's possible with data and artificial intelligence. As one of the most digitally advanced nations in the world, Estonia is moving beyond e-governance to integrate AI across its economy, public services, and daily life. With a firm commitment to transparency, ethics, and citizen trust, the country is building a future where innovation and accountability go hand in hand. Listeners will discover how Estonia's forward-thinking policies, infrastructure, and investments are powering its data economy, driving smarter governance, and setting a global standard for responsible AI adoption. From real-world examples of AI disrupting traditional systems to actionable insights for enhancing competitiveness, this episode offers a roadmap for any organisation looking to harness data and innovation the Estonian way. Ott Velsberg, Government Chief Data Officer, Estonian Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co      

  This episode featuring Dr David Tuffley, Senior Lecturer Senior Fellow | Higher Education Academy School of Information & Communication Technology Institute of Integrated & Intelligent Systems (IIIS), Griffith University, dives into the high-stakes world of cybersecurity at major sporting events, where protecting critical systems like ticketing, broadcasting, and athlete data is non-negotiable. Listeners will hear how organisers implement continuous monitoring to detect and respond to threats in real time, and why success depends on seamless collaboration between local, national, and international cyber teams. It's a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to keep the Games safe, connected, and running smoothly. Dr David Tuffley, Senior Lecturer Senior Fellow | Higher Education Academy School of Information & Communication Technology Institute of Integrated & Intelligent Systems (IIIS), Griffith University For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Speaking from the perspective of a non-technologist, Jared Cowley Grimmond, Deputy Director General for Water Resource Management, shares the Department's ongoing digital transformation journey in Queensland. He highlights the importance of getting the foundations right—modernising legacy systems, moving to cloud platforms, and creating online portals—while ensuring services remain accessible for all citizens, not just digital users. Jared emphasises the role of people and focus in making transformation stick: aligning staff, listening to customers, starting small, and learning from both successes and failures. From staff-driven innovations and AI tools for water mapping to lessons learned from other states, his message is clear—digital transformation is as much about culture, collaboration, and governance as it is about technology. Jarrod Cowley-Grimmond (Deputy Director-General, Water Resource Management, Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers) For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co      

In this episode, we catch up with Michelle Simpson, Strategic Technology Advisor, Office of Digital Government, Department of Premier and Cabinet WA as she dives into the biggest hurdles agencies are facing right now—and more importantly, how to tackle them head-on. From the power of transparency and smarter vendor management, to making the most of the Assurance Review and other Digital Government support, you'll hear practical insights that can turn challenges into opportunities for success. Michelle Simpson, Strategic Technology Advisor, Office of Digital Government, Department of Premier and Cabinet WA For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Join Amanda Garcia and Dan Wilkins, CISO for the Arizona Department of Economic Security, as they explore the intersection of AI, automation, and collaboration in public sector cybersecurity. Dan shares practical strategies for building a proactive defense, leveraging emerging tech, and fostering the partnerships essential for resilience in an evolving threat landscape.   Dan Wilkens, Chief Information Security Officer, Arizona Department of Economic Security For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co