In this episode of the CIONET Podcast, Hendrik Deckers interviews, Raul Jimenez, Head of Data, AI & Integration Platforms at Sika, the nominee in the Data & AI category during the #CIONETAwards2026. Register here to find out who wins this prestigious title: https://www.cionet.com/events/cionet-awards-2026-part-1! Raul’s CV is seriously impressive, boasting over two decades of international experience. He's been at the helm, steering digital transformation, innovation, and technology strategy across a wide range of industries globally. From being knee-deep in software engineering to project leadership and executive advising, he’s seen the whole picture. Crucially, he’s recognised for building and successfully scaling complex enterprise platforms. His focus is spot on: embracing federated models, leveraging emerging technologies, and, most importantly, making sure everything is tightly aligned with the business strategy. Raul doesn't just manage technology; he cleverly bridges technical expertise with strategic vision, turning big, innovative ideas into real, lasting organisational impact. Sika transforms its data and AI governance by centralising initiatives and establishing core platforms for data, AI, and integration. The organisation addresses connectivity issues, builds a data platform, and implements an AI governance framework. It shifts from project-based to product-based management, focusing on foundational data and processes. The future vision includes a cognitive enterprise system that leverages AI across all functions, ensuring competitiveness in the digital landscape.