Advancing Digital Government in Virginia: AI, Data Integration, and Tools for Enhanced Citizen Services - Robert (Bob) Osmond - Episode 149

In this episode of Public Sector Podcast, we chat with Jocelyn, the Deputy Minister for Environment and Climate Change in Manitoba, about the transformative role digital tools are playing in reshaping government-citizen relationships. From co-creation of policies to fostering two-way communication, Jocelyn shares how Manitoba is using digital platforms like Engage EMB to create more inclusive, transparent, and responsive governance. We explore the shift from one-way communication to collaboration, the importance of maintaining privacy while engaging data-driven strategies, and how governments can use technology to build trust and better serve their citizens. Tune in for practical insights, real-world examples, and actionable tips on revolutionizing citizen engagement in the digital age. Don’t miss this conversation—it's one you’ll want to share with your colleagues and leaders in government! Jocelyn Baker, Deputy Minister Environment and Climate Change at Government of Manitoba. For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co      

Virginia is leading the charge in digital transformation—leveraging AI and emerging technologies to streamline government operations, tackle complex data challenges, and improve public service delivery. In this episode, we're joined by Robert (Bob) Osmond, Commonwealth Chief Information Officer, Virginia IT Agency whoexplores how the state is using innovation to create more efficient, transparent, and citizen-centred government services. From AI-powered process improvements to the Central Permit Transparency initiative, discover how Virginia is simplifying bureaucracy, breaking down data silos, and transforming citizen and business experiences across the state. If you're looking to modernize public services, this episode is packed with practical insights and proven strategies. Robert (Bob) Osmond, Commonwealth Chief Information Officer, Virginia IT Agency For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In this episode, Matthew Craft, Detective Superintendent, NSW Police Force examines the evolving landscape of cybercrime in 2025—what’s changed, what’s emerging, and what organisations need to know to stay ahead. From rising threat trends to response readiness, the discussion also highlights the importance of national and international cooperation in combating cyber threats. Whether you’re in government, law enforcement, or cyber defence, this episode offers timely insights into staying resilient in a high-risk digital world.   Matthew Craft, Detective Superintendent, NSW Police Force   For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In this episode of Public Sector Podcast, we are joined by Josh Wagner, Arizona's State Chief Data and Analytics Officer, as Arizona drives forward with data modernization, AI governance and cross agency innovation. Josh will dive into the strategies shaping Arizona's data-driven future and the lessons other jurisdictions can take from their journey. This includes connecting the dots on how data is addressed, challenges in advancing Arizona's data modernization journey, the role of governance, and the acceleration of collaboration.  Josh Wagner, Arizona State Chief Data and Analytics Officer, State of Arizona For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co    

In this episode, Emily Mailes, Chief eHealth Strategy Officer at the Victorian Department of Health, joins us for a fireside chat on navigating digital transformation in healthcare. She shares how Victoria is tackling outdated systems, adopting AI, and reshaping its digital strategy to improve patient care and system efficiency. From managing billion-dollar IT backlogs to building interoperable platforms and developing AI governance frameworks, Emily offers practical insights into balancing innovation with safety, ethics, and long-term sustainability. Essential listening for health leaders, policymakers, and digital strategists looking to modernise healthcare while keeping patients at the centre. Emily Mailes, Chief eHealth Strategy Officer, Victorian Department of Health For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co    

In this episode, we sit down with two visionary leaders driving innovation in municipal government: Jan Bradley, Chief Information Technology Officer (CITO) of Calgary, and Scot Barker, Chief Innovation Officer (CINO) of Burlington, Vermont. From AI adoption and cybersecurity to legacy system modernization and equitable digital access, they share candid insights on: Balancing innovation with risk: How cities experiment with emerging tech (like Calgary’s "Wave Centre" for rapid prototyping) while safeguarding data and public trust. The post-COVID mandate: Why digital transformation is no longer optional—and how it’s reshaping citizen engagement and service delivery. Data as a strategic asset: Practical approaches to unlocking value from data (without drowning in legacy systems or privacy pitfalls). Talent and partnerships: How to attract tech talent to the public sector and collaborate effectively with vendors, academia, and communities. The future of govtech: Bold predictions on AI, quantum computing, and the technologies that will redefine local government in the next 5 years. Whether you’re a public sector leader navigating tight budgets and complex stakeholder needs or a solution provider looking to align with government priorities, this conversation offers actionable lessons and real-world examples from the front lines of civic innovation.   Jan Bradley, Chief Information & Technology Officer, City of Calgary & Scot Barker, Chief Innovation Officer, City of Burlington   For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

This episode features Mark Lenzner, Executive Director, ICT / Digital Sourcing, Digital.NSW, NSW Department of Customer Service, who explores how the Test and Buy Innovation model is transforming public sector procurement. Learn how agencies can adopt more agile, outcome-focused approaches to tackle community challenges—by prioritising the problem rather than prescribing the solution. From fostering procurement flexibility to unlocking access to a wider pool of tailored, innovative offerings, the discussion dives into strategies that drive better results in public service delivery. A must-listen for public sector leaders and innovators rethinking how government buys and builds. Mark Lenzner, Executive Director, ICT / Digital Sourcing, Digital.NSW, NSW Department of Customer Service.   For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In this episode, we hear from Joshua McKenzie, Manager, Cyber Governance, Risk and Assurance, Parliament of NSW who explores how government service providers can strike the right balance between compliance, cost-effectiveness, and risk management—without compromising on safety or service delivery. Listeners will gain insights into prioritising tasks through a people-centric lens, applying threat-based risk strategies, and implementing practical, scalable approaches to achieve compliance. Whether you're in operations, policy, or cyber risk, this conversation offers actionable takeaways for building safer, more effective government services. Joshua McKenzie, Manager, Cyber Governance, Risk and Assurance, Parliament of NSW For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In our latest episode, Jamey Martell, Senior Director, One Person One Record, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Dr. Julie Maranda, Chief Medical Information Officer, One Person One Record, Nova Scotia Health Authority highlight that as healthcare systems go digital, trust and security must be built in from the start. Our healthcare leaders from Nova Scotia Health and its OPOR (One Person One Record) share how they’re designing a unified, province-wide health record system that puts governance, privacy, and user needs at the centre. Find out how OPOR is embedding protections throughout system design, aligning clinical and technical teams, and safeguarding sensitive health data—while also building public trust in the future of digital care.   Jamey Martell, Senior Director, One Person One Record, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Dr. Julie Maranda, Chief Medical Information Officer, One Person One Record, Nova Scotia Health Authority For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

This episode, Nicholas Davis, Co-Director, UTS Human Technology Institute takes listeners on a deep dive into the transformative world of Artificial Intelligence and the essential guardrails needed to ensure its safe, ethical, and effective application. Drawing on global best practices, emerging domestic trends, and state-level strategies, the conversation explores how NSW and the broader Australian public sector can harness AI’s potential while maintaining public trust and navigating complex regulatory landscapes. From understanding the technology and building a clear strategy, to implementing governance frameworks and operationalising AI at scale, this episode unpacks every layer of the journey. Whether you're exploring use cases or managing risk, it offers a roadmap for safely accelerating AI adoption across government. Nicholas Davis, Co-Director, UTS Human Technology Institute   For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co