Transport for NSW is a public sector organisation that runs buses, trains, light rail, and ferries across New South Wales. When I joined they were commencing a multi-hundred million dollar project to implement a new SAP system.

Initially, I was the solution architect for data. I designed data governance processes that would ensure data in the new system stayed clean and secure. I also defined the project’s approach to migrating data from old systems that were being decomissioned. I facilitated workshops with stakeholders to understand requirements and set expectations about upcoming changes.

As the project grew, Transport for NSW asked me to take over the entire data team. This meant that I was managing 23 business analysts and developers that were tasked with implementing the new solution that we had designed.

The work we were doing was high-stakes. Lots of money was on the line and any issues could affect safety or disrupt the lives of people who depend on public transport.