Beyond the Hype: Building with AI, Leading with Impact


Details
Hey Product Enthusiasts!
Everyone’s talking about AI. But who’s actually doing something meaningful with it? This session dives into how product leaders are cutting through the noise to build smarter, ship faster, and lead better. You’ll hear real stories, sharp insights, and practical takeaways for thriving as a product builder in AI’s next era.
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Tim & Mariana's Talk: Not Another AI Talk: Real Change in Product & Engineering
Generative AI has dominated headlines, but how does it actually drive meaningful progress in regulated fintech? In this session, Tim and Mariana will share Zumo’s journey from moving beyond the hype to real-world impact. From early experiments and lessons learned to building an internal tool in days instead of weeks, they’ll show how AI can fuel secure innovation, reshape team culture, and create lasting business value. Expect practical examples, candid reflections, and plenty of space for discussion, and hopefully leave inspired to drive meaningful change in your own organisation.
About Mariana:
Mariana is a Product Manager at Zumo, where she develops user-focused solutions that bridge traditional finance and digital assets. With a passion for simplifying complex systems, she combines curiosity, strategic thinking, and a practical approach to delivering innovative fintech products. At Zumo, Mariana has been instrumental in exploring how AI can improve workflows, enhance collaboration, and create real value for customers and teams alike.
About Tim:
Tim is Chief Technology Officer at Zumo, a fintech innovator pioneering secure and sustainable digital asset solutions. Combining an approachable leadership style with deep technical expertise, Tim helps regulated businesses confidently embrace emerging technology from blockchain to AI. Over his career, he has scaled engineering teams, delivered enterprise-grade products under strict compliance, and championed a pragmatic approach to innovation.
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Dan's Talk: How the best PMs are adapting to win in an AI driven landscape
Product management is evolving fast. While some struggle with burnout, role confusion and being bogged down in admin, a new generation of product professionals are thriving by focusing on what truly matters: building real value.
Dan Dalton reveals the key qualities that separate high-impact PMs and how to position yourself as the ‘builder’ and value creator that companies desperately need.
Practical insights for thriving in product management's next chapter.
About Dan:
Dan Dalton is an award-winning product leader, advisor, and coach. He's built his 13-year career scaling high-performing teams and driving explosive growth at some of the world's most innovative B2B SaaS companies.
Dan is currently Director of Product Management at Sage, leading their portfolio of cloud Payroll products across all regions and segments. When he's not scaling products, he's sharing his product-led expertise as a speaker and advising early-stage companies on their journey to product-market-fit at scale.
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Agenda:
• 5:30pm - 6:00pm – Welcome, food & drinks
• 6:00pm - 7:25pm – Talks & Q&A
• 7:25pm - 8:00pm – Drinks & networking
• 8:00pm onwards – Optional drinks at Fountainbridge Fox
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Thank you to our sponsor:
FreeAgent – FreeAgent is award-winning accounting software designed to help small businesses and freelancers manage their finances with ease. From invoicing and expense tracking to tax calculations and real-time insights, FreeAgent simplifies financial admin so business owners can focus on what they do best. As part of the NatWest Group, FreeAgent is helping to shape the future of small business banking by offering seamless, integrated solutions that empower entrepreneurs to stay in control of their money.
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Disclaimer:
- Admittance is not permitted once the speakers kick off. Due to security requirements at our sponsor’s office, we can’t provide entry access after 6pm.
- We will take pictures of the event for our LinkedIn page. If you prefer not to be in any photos, please let one of the organisers know.
We can’t wait to see you there!

Beyond the Hype: Building with AI, Leading with Impact