Xcede’s Speed Data-ing Events: Fostering Collaboration Among Data and AI Leaders
Xcede, a specialist recruitment firm focused on the data and AI sectors, has been hosting networking events for data professionals since 2014. In 2026, the company continues its innovative approach with “Speed Data-ing” events, designed to facilitate focused discussions among senior data leaders. These events address critical challenges and opportunities within the rapidly evolving data and AI landscape.
The Speed Data-ing Format
The “Speed Data-ing” format, inspired by speed dating, enables a larger group of industry leaders to engage in dynamic conversations. A recent event held in Berlin brought together 80 senior data and AI leaders in a roundtable, meet-up format .
Key Discussion Topics
Discussions at these events center around key themes impacting the data and AI field. Recent topics include:
- Developing and Upskilling Data & AI Teams: How organizations can evolve the skills and capabilities of their data teams to keep pace with the rapid development of AI.
- Moving from AI Experiments to Production at Scale: Addressing the reasons why many AI initiatives stall at the proof-of-concept stage and exploring how to operationalize AI across the business.
- Prioritizing AI Employ Cases Across Businesses: Identifying and prioritizing AI opportunities that deliver real business value.
- Driving innovation with governance in an AI-driven world
- Embedding GenAI and data-first thinking across organisations
Event Highlights and Locations
Xcede hosted its first speed-dating style event on Thursday, June 6th at Trainline . Another event was held in Berlin, hosted by Blacklane . Xcede has released reports summarizing insights from these events, collating valuable data from surveys and discussions , .
Looking Ahead
Xcede’s Speed Data-ing events provide a valuable platform for data and AI leaders to connect, share insights, and address the challenges of a rapidly changing industry. By fostering these conversations, Xcede contributes to the advancement of data-driven innovation and responsible AI implementation.