In this Digital Edge interview, Lucius Botha, GM – Transformation at SKOPE, shares how AI and clean data are powering faster and more effective B2B service.

The company has launched a series of major digital initiatives to simplify and streamline B2B customer engagement.

SKOPE recognised the complexity of its offering across product sales, aftersales service, funding and logistics.

It prioritised a unified CRM rollout across customer facing and operational teams.

The company also invested in a cloud based data warehouse and an integration platform to connect systems.

These steps have allowed SKOPE to consolidate customer data into a single source of truth, reducing internal friction and enabling more responsive, consistent service.

A key innovation has been the use of AI to automate order processing.

The company now scans emailed PDF purchase orders using AI and inputs them directly into the ERP system.

This eliminates manual entry and improves both speed and accuracy.

Early experiments with generative AI are underway, with a focus on high volume and high transaction use cases such as customer service queries and logistics data processing.

Lucius notes that while the pace of AI development is rapid, SKOPE is focused on strategic, future ready investments rather than short term solutions.

Data governance is now a cornerstone of SKOPE’s broader digital strategy.

Recognising that all systems and decisions rely on accurate data, the company has introduced a formal data stewardship model and monthly forums to review data quality.

This enterprise wide approach is reinforced by board and executive support, with regular updates on digital transformation progress.

For SKOPE, success depends on leadership commitment, clear data ownership and a well informed, deliberate approach to adopting new technologies.

 

Key takeaways

  • Integrated digital platforms support faster B2B service – A unified CRM, cloud data warehouse and integration tools reduce friction and improve customer response times.
  • AI is already improving operational efficiency – Automated order processing eliminates manual entry and enables faster, more accurate handling of high volume transactions.
  • Data governance drives long term maturity – SKOPE uses formal stewardship and executive oversight to align digital strategy with data quality and accountability.
Contributors
Lucius Botha GM - Digital Transformation at SKOPE Industries
With over 25 years of experience driving business value through technology, I bring a strong digital background and a customer-centric approach that... More

With over 25 years of experience driving business value through technology, I bring a strong digital background and a customer-centric approach that is inherent in my work. I lead the strategy and execution of major technology transformation processes in complex environments, establishing partnerships with business peers to identify opportunities for growth and co-create value. My expertise includes creating new technology platforms, building IT teams, developing governance policies, defining technology strategies, and delivering end-to-end project frameworks that support core Digital capabilities.

Through my leadership, I transform business processes and technology platforms to provide exceptional customer experiences, reduce operating costs, increase efficiencies, and gain a competitive edge. I have a proven track record of overseeing multi-million-dollar, large, and complex Digital initiatives with exceptional budget control. I focus on integrating technology-powered business objectives into early strategy discussions to ensure Digital innovation is always creating business value, enhancing the customer experience, optimising infrastructure, and promoting IT agility.

My extensive experience in complex Digital environments allows me to lead business transformation through innovation across emerging technologies, data quality, risk management, customer-facing technologies, projects, and digital strategy. I hold myself to a high standard for achieving results, and I have prioritised the development of a broad range of technical and leadership skills to be an innovative leader.

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Byron Connolly Head of Programs & Value Engagement at ADAPT
Byron Connolly is a highly experienced technology and business journalist, editor, corporate writer, and event producer, and ADAPT’s Head of Programs and... More

Byron Connolly is a highly experienced technology and business journalist, editor, corporate writer, and event producer, and ADAPT’s Head of Programs and Value Engagement.

Prior to joining Adapt, he was the editor-in-chief at CIO Australia and associate editor at CSO Australia. He also created and led the well-known CIO50 awards program in Australia and The CIO Show podcast.

As the Head of Programs, Byron creates valuable insights for ADAPT’s community of senior technology and business professionals, helping them reach their organisational and professional goals. With over 25 years of experience, he has a passion for uncovering stories about the careers and personal philosophies of Australia’s top technology and digital executives.

When he is not working, Byron enjoys hot yoga, swimming, running, and spending time with his family.

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data transformation leadership