Erik Huberman, Founder & CEO of Hawke Media | Hawke Media | Los Angeles, California, United States | Management | Industry: Advertising, Marketing, & Public Relations Background and Experience: Erik Huberman is the Founder & CEO of Hawke Media, a full-service Outsourced CMO based in Los Angeles that launched in 2014 and has now been valued at $75 million. In just 5.5 years, Hawke Media has grown from 7 to almost 200 employees and has serviced 1500+ brands including Raden, BeautyCon, Bottlekeeper, The Ridge Wallet, Buscemi, Red Bull, Evite, Verizon Wireless, and HP. Hawke Media was named on Inc. 5000’s list of “Fastest Growing Companies” last year, one of CIOReview’s “Top 20 Most Promising Digital Marketing Solution Providers”, and a recipient of a gold STEVIE Award in the American Business Awards for “Company of the Year”. As a serial entrepreneur and brand marketing expert, Erik Huberman is a sought-after thought leader in the world of digital marketing, entrepreneurship, sales, and business. Prior to Hawke, Erik founded, grew, and sold Swag of the Month and grew Ellie.com’s sales to $1 million in four months. Erik is the recipient of numerous honors and awards including Forbes “30Under30”, Inc. Magazine’s “Top 25 Marketing Influencers”, and Influencive’s “Top Influencive Influencers”. Erik is a regular contributor to major media publications like Forbes, Entrepreneur, and Business Insider, and joined XPRIZE as their key marketing advisor.
Brenda Christensen, CEO | Stellar Public Relations, Inc. | Cape Coral, Florida, United States | Management | Industry: Advertising, Marketing, & Public Relations Background and Experience: Brenda Christensen is CEO of Stellar Public Relations, a world leader in public relations, investor relations, branding, funding and corporate guidance with direct attributable growth worth over millions of dollars. Ms. Christensen currently serves as an adviser on private boards in North America, and previously served as corporate officer for a publicly held technology company, across multiple continents. She was a founding member of one of the most successful Inc. 500 startups in tech, as well as a recipient of the E&Y “Entrepreneur of the Year” company award. A leading corporate communications and public relations expert, board member and corporate officer of leading global technology companies, Brenda has provided strategic corporate guidance and governance, as well as successfully created and managed global messaging campaigns for such prestigious companies as Apple, McAfee, Panda Security, NEC, GM and many others. Most recently, she served as a judge for the 2019 SIIA CODiE Awards – the oldest and most prestigious awards program in tech.
Sourav Mukherjee, Database Administrator | Capgemini America | Buffalo Grove, Illinois, United States | Information Technology | Industry: Information Technology Software Background and Experience: Sourav Mukherjee is a Senior Database Administrator and Architect based out of Chicago. He has more than 12 years of experience working with Microsoft SQL Server Database Platform. His work focuses on Microsoft SQL Server started with SQL Server 2000. Being a Consultant, he has worked with different Chicago based client projects. He has helped many companies in designing and maintaining their high availability solutions and providing query performance tuning to improve the overall SQL Server performance. He is passionate about SQL Server Database and the related community and contributing to articles in different SQL Server Public sites and Forums helping the members. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science followed by a master’s degree in Project Management. Currently pursuing Ph.D. In Information Technology. He is an MCT (Microsoft Certified Trainer) certified since 2017, MCP, MCTS, MCDBA, MCITP, TOGAF, Prince2, PMP, and ITIL Certified. He writes articles and blogs on Scholarly journals and other social media platforms.
Pratik Thanki, Senior Manager – Energy Trading and Risk Management | Publicis Sapient | Houston, Texas, United States | Management | Industry: Energy & Utilities Background and Experience: Pratik is an innovative leader with 12 plus years of experience in Energy and Finance industries. As a delivery lead, he has led several large programs for multiple organizations, such as investment banks, utilities, oil/gas majors and LNG companies. He possesses an elite Energy Risk Professional (ERP) certification. With the use of strong domain knowledge in Natural Gas, LNG, Oil & Refined Products, Power including trading, hedging and valuation, he has collaborated with other industry leaders in the space and delivered high value business and IT transformation programs involving globally distributed delivery teams.
Jayendra Viswanathan, Project Leader | Mphasis Limited | Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India | Information Technology | Industry: Engineering and Technology Background and Experience: A results-focused technical project manager with nearly 20 years of IT experience. 10+ years of software development/Application support/Product support/Production support, and with over 8 years of Project/Program Management/PMO Experience. Good Coordinator with an outstanding record of delivering solutions on time and within budget. Management background includes managing service delivery for multinational clients, leading teams, developing and managing budgets, contract agreements, and monitoring project standards for deliverable.
Zamir Rhemtulla, Managing Director | Pioneer Solutions | London, London, United Kingdom | Information Technology | Industry: Information Technology Services Background and Experience: Zamir graduated in 2006 and holds a BSc (Hons) from London South Bank University and several IT industry qualifications. Zamir has a wealth of experience, contracting at several blue-chip companies, such as Credit Suisse, The London Metal Exchange and Xchanging. His entrepreneurial strengths encouraged him to establish a world-class and renowned IT Support company in 2008. He is very much focused on business development, and spearheads the IT Support and Consultancy division of Pioneer Solutions.
Ritu Thakkar, IT Head Process & QA | Vakrangee Limited | Mumbai, Maharashtra, India | Management | Industry: Information Technology Services Background and Experience: Awards: Year 2018 – Winner of Bronze in the 13th Annual IT World Award® in Women IT Category (SVUS Awards) Year 2018 – Winner of Datacenter Summit & Awards under the category Risk Management. (Telecast in National TV ET Now) Year 2017 – Winner of World Award Information Security Awareness Program – Excellence Awards (MediaPro) ü To explore more in information system audits, Compliances, QA audit, financial services, and strategy ü Integration of RD Service Biometric Devices Experience in Implementation of AUA & e-Sign ü Expertise in cyber security including standards such as ISO27001, IS audit, privacy ü Knowledge of concepts such as vendor risk profiling, country risk assessment, outsourcing/ technology regulations. ü Knowledge of threats, vulnerabilities, controls, and risk management. ü Monitor and identify recurring queries/issues and suggests appropriate solution. ü Excellent communication skills and ability to work independently, or as part of a team. ü Learning agility, pro-activeness and openness to embrace new ideas. ü Ability to translate business needs and problems into viable and accepted solutions. ü Competent interpersonal skills, demonstrating the ability to lead projects and mentor others
Parmod Satija, Director-Product Development | Alpha Net Consulting | Milpitas, California, United States | Product Development | Industry: Information Technology Services Background and Experience: Parmod is passionate and Innovative Senior Product Management professional with over 20+ years of experience in different industry verticals that includes software, high tech and Automotive. His dedicated problem-solving approach has benefited many customers throughout globe by solving their pain points using creative approaches and use of new technology products.
Veda Prakash Vaddadi, SAP Delivery Lead & Subject Matter Expert | Accenture/Microsoft | Frisco, Texas, United States | Information Technology | Industry: Information Technology Software Background and Experience: Veda Vaddadi is an SAP Consulting Professional with 20 years strong industry experience, which includes 14+ years of exclusive SAP consulting and IT work supporting complex applications for global clients in an Onsite and Offshore delivery model. Adepts at business process consulting, project management and delivery of large scale and complex SAP deployments and outsourcing deals. Has deep industry experience in Professional Services, Manufacturing, Construction, Utility, Oil & Gas, Chemicals, Automotive etc. in implementing SAP solutions for global cutting edge technology companies in the United States, Middle East, Europe and in India. He is a Subject Matter Expert and SAP Functional Architect with significant experience implementing Project Systems, Commercial Project Management, Contract to Cash business process (C2C) and Procure to Pay (P2P) integration work. Veda holds an MBA from the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, India and a graduate in Architecture and Construction Management from India. He has also been an international Judge for Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards 2019, The International Business Awards 2019, Golden Bridge Awards 2018, CEO World Awards 2019 in the past.
Neha Goel, SVP, Marketing & Strategy | Simplify Workforce | Jersey City, New Jersey, United States | Marketing | Industry: Information Technology Software Background and Experience: Neha is the SVP of Marketing & Strategy at Simplify Workforce, an innovative provider of workforce technologies including contingent workforce management and services procurement solutions. Neha was brought onboard in 2018 to bring products to market, drive continued rapid growth, forge strategic partnerships, and generate demand for the company and its flagship product, SimplifyVMS. Neha’s role includes oversight of the company’s global marketing strategy and brand identity, driving sales excellence and go-to-market effectiveness. Prior to joining Simplify, Neha was VP of Marketing at DCR Workforce, which was recently bought by Coupa Software in one of the largest acquisitions in the industry’s history; under her leadership, the company was rebranded from the ground up, won numerous accolades, transformed its digital presence, and built a best-in-industry demand generation platform. Neha has an extensive background in marketing strategy, technology-driven project management, and management consulting, working across many mid-market, enterprise, and public sector clients. She graduated with an International MBA from IE Business School in Madrid, Spain in 2012. Additionally, she has an MBA with a concentration in finance and marketing and a BA in English from Florida Atlantic University, as well as several professional certifications including PMP, Six Sigma Black Belt, SPHR.
Kumar Varun Verma, Manager, Product Marketing | Kaseya | Pune, Maharashtra, India | Marketing | Industry: Business Products and Services Background and Experience: Varun Verma is a Product Marketing Leader & Data Protection Evangelist with 15 years of experience with Global Fortune 500 companies. Varun Verma brings extensive experience to the information management market, including backup, networking and networked storage concepts and technologies. At Kaseya, Varun is the manager of Product Marketing for Endpoint Monitoring and Management product line, driving thought leadership, asset creation, go to market guidance and campaign strategy. Prior to joining Kaseya, Varun held product management, product and field marketing positions, professional services and education at leading technology providers including Veritas, Symantec, Cognizant, and KPIT Cummins. He holds a Master’s diploma in Human Resources Management and Operations Management. He also holds a certificate in Leadership, Policy and Governance from Indian Institute of Management Ranchi. He has been a judge for multiple international awards like the prestigious SVUS Awards, Brandon Hall Group Excellence Awards, Stevie International Business Awards, Stevie American Business Awards, Stevie Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards, and the STC International awards.
Ahmed Rauf Essa, Co-Founder | Telemart | Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan | Management | Industry: Retail Background and Experience: Ahmed Rauf Essa is the only Pakistani entrepreneur to win 8 Global & 2 National Awards at the age of 27. He has been a jury member for 9 Global Awards & was also selected as Rising Star by the world retail congress. Ahmed Rauf Essa was also featured in Forbes “30 Under 30” List 2019.
Sanjay Jain, Founder Director | International Star Wealth Management | Green Park Main, Delhi, India | Management | Industry: Healthcare, Pharmaceuticals, Biotech, Health Products & Services Background and Experience: Interest: e-commerce Vision: Aligning to the International Business Trends. Specialties: Entrepreneurial Practice development, New Initiatives, Distribution System Model: Lead thru learning, experience, qualification and Partnership. Experience: 27 years across functions of Global Assets, International Markets, Manufacturing, Supply Chain & IT. An practicing leader and communicator with interpersonal, leadership, analytical and relationship management skills relevant to multi country environment. Insightful and rich experience of over 26 years across functions of Manufacturing, Engineering, EAM, Supply Chain & IT. Established as Manufacturing Practice Strategist. Possess demonstrated capabilities in strategy design, Sales growth, Domain capability, Business Value chain enablement, Account Management, Delivery Management, and Resource Planning. A keen strategist, planner and implementer with expertise in devising Process and Business-IT roadmap aimed at enhancing Wealth, sustained profitability of operations and improved business performance. Motivated by internal standards of performance to build organisations. Exposure in Profit target based business growth.
Anne Coyle, Director of global marketing | Www.hcltech.com | Westborough, Massachusetts, United States | Corporate Communications | Industry: Information Technology Services Background and Experience: Dynamic, high-achieving public relations and marketing communications professional with a 20-year track record of success in the technology and professional services industries.
Brian Arthur Tallador, District PR Manager | Toastmasters District 97 | Bangkok, Bangkok (กรุงเทพมหานคร), Thailand | Public Relations | Industry: Non-Profit or Government Organizations Background and Experience: Brian Arthur has been an active member of Chiang Mai Toastmasters for 3 years and has held the positions of Club Vice-President for Public Relations for two years before being elected as Club President. He has recently been appointed as District Public Relations Manager of Toastmasters District 97 which covers the countries of Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. Brian has a bachelor’s degree in Broadcasting and a Post-Diploma in Teaching. His past job experiences include managing a radio station, marketing personal care products, and managing events. He’s currently employed as an EFL teacher at the Prince Royal’s College in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Satishkumar Boguda, Software Engineer | Applexus Technologies | Sandiego, California, United States | Information Technology | Industry: Information Technology Software Background and Experience: Mr. Satish Kumar Boguda, a multifaceted Software Engineer in the field of IT industry with 12+ years of experience, based out at Sandiego – California. Having made many contributions for the IT industry by serving industry giants like GE, Price Water Coopers, Nokia Siemens Network, Sandiego Gas & Electric, SoCal Gas, Hasbro through major implementing partners Wipro Technologies, Intelligroup – An NTT Data Corporation, Applexus Technologies. Below are my specializations Machine Learning – Stanford University High Dimensional Data Analysis – Harvard University Data Science Professional – IBM Executive Data Science – John Hopkins University Intelligent Machining – State University of Newyork Product Owner – PSPO Scrum Master – PSM IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL V3.0) Intelligent Enterprises – SAP Leonardo Internet of Things (IoT) – SAP 70+ SAP Record of Achievements Jury member of Information Technology Committee for “International Business Awards”. Member of Judge panel on “Best Emerging Technology” for SIIA Awards. Member of Judging board for “The American Business Awards”. Member of the “Asia – Pacific Stevie Awards” Information Technology Judging Committee. Published research papers on Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Digital Transformation Journey Utilizing Intelligent Technologies . Autonomous Cars – Predicting Future Customers Maximizing Digital Transformation Innovation – Design Thinking
Zachary Weiner, CEO | Emerging Insider Communications | Chicago, Illinois, United States | Management | Industry: Advertising, Marketing, & Public Relations Background and Experience: Marketing, branding and advisor to the most intriguing of emerging technologies and disruptive media. Zachary has acted as founder, incubator and CEO of several advertising and communications agencies specializing in fintech, adtech, entertainment media and AI technology. He is a frequent lecturer and writer for publications ranging from The Guardian, to AdWeek to Entrepreneur.
Praveen Kotturu, Director | KPMG | MONROE TWP, New Jersey, United States | Information Technology | Industry: Business Products and Services Background and Experience: Technology leader for the Enterprise Transaction Services Application development & administration organization supporting KPMG Americas Regional Delivery Center and Digital Nexus (KPMG US technology group). Leads the organization responsible for 24/7 support of Application development, system administration, user administration, application database support, application integration (MW), enterprise application monitoring, mobile app support, datacenter coordination, and enterprise batch monitoring across the Enterprise Solutions business application portfolio. Application portfolio is comprised of: ERP Solutions, Finance and Accounting, HR, Enterprise Data Warehouse, Enterprise Business Intelligence, eAudit, and Resource management solutions. Trusted technical adviser to the client service delivery teams working on client pursuits, delivery, innovation, and discovery in the areas of: ERP, digital transformation, technology implementation, application migrations, and intelligent automation.
Aaron Schumm, CEO | Vestwell | New York, New York, United States | Management | Industry: Others… Background and Experience: Aaron is the founder & CEO of Vestwell, an entirely new kind of digital retirement platform transforming the way plans are offered and administered — for the benefit of advisors, employers, andemployees alike. Vestwell removes the friction points of confusion, cost and legal overhead that come with traditional retirement plans, while combining the best parts of automated investing with a human touch. Prior to founding Vestwell, Aaron co-founded FolioDynamix, a wealth management and advisory services company powering $800 billion in assets for over 100,000 advisors. At FolioDynamix, Aaron oversaw the strategy, revenue, marketing, customers and product. FolioDynamix was sold to Actua, (NASDAQ: ACTA) in 2014. Before FolioDynamix, Aaron was a vice president at Citigroup where helped advance the Asset Manager Solutions global strategy efforts. Other past positions include head of WealthSolutions products at BISYS (now part of Citigroup) and product manager at CheckFree Investment Services (now part of Fiserv) overseeing and the Unified Managed Account (UMA) platform. Aaron holds a B.S. degree in finance from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign and an M.B.A. degree from Duke University, The Fuqua School of Business. He was named as one of 40-under-40 by InvestmentNews and WealthManagement.com’s “10 to Watch”.
Balaji Angiya Nagarajan, Senior Business Analyst | Mphasis Corporation | Middle Village, New York, United States | Information Technology | Industry: Information Technology Services Background and Experience: I have 16+ years of experience in providing consultancy in the areas of Derivatives, Risk Management and Capital Markets. I have successfully handled key projects and performed the roles of business analysis, data analysis, product management, quality assurance and scientific computing. My professional projects include >> ATM Technology: Development of middleware and functional enhancements. >> Home Lending: Technology migration / Enhancement of Pricing exception portal for Mortgage loans. >> Regulation and Compliance: Global Regulatory exam coordination portal for a major investment bank. >> Wealth Management: A portal with 360-degree Account view for financial advisors. >> Equity sales desktop: Design of Equity Sales desktop which provides a 360-degree view of IB Client Relationship Management. >> Risk Technology: Enhancements of risk business process workflows for a major investment bank. >> Global prime portal: Facilitated technology migration with documentation of requirements and QA. >> Derivative valuation reporting tool: Enhancement to include equity derivatives. >> Global collateral engine: Creation of global long box, which will serve as a portal to view long positions of securities that are eligible as collateral. >> Retail banking product: Facilitated technology migration by documenting business requirements.
Sharon Gallant, Owner | GLG Communications Inc. | Montreal, Quebec, Canada | Management | Industry: Advertising, Marketing, & Public Relations Background and Experience: Entrepreneur, business leader and communications executive with more than 20 years’ experience helping her clients’ brands achieve success. Her agency, GLG communications, has grown to become one of Canada’s largest independent marketing agencies. Sharon’s strategic approach has turned her company into a venerable powerhouse, with a blue-chip client list that includes domestic clients, as well as clients from around the globe.
Zach Whitney, Social Media Director | Utah Department of Transportation | Taylorsville, Utah, United States | Social Media/Digital | Industry: Non-Profit or Government Organizations Background and Experience: Zach Whitney is a professional storyteller with 10 years of communication experience. He operates under the motto that “everyone has an interesting story to tell.” The majority of Zach’s working career was spent as a television reporter for KSTU Fox 13 in Salt Lake City. His work earned him national recognition. In 2017, Zach left the world of news reporting to pursue a career in corporate communication. As a Digital Communication manager for the Utah Department of Transportation, Zach oversees internal and external communication channels, and is the director of the department’s social media presence. Zach graduated with a degree in Mass Communication from the University of Utah in 2009, and is currently pursuing a Master in Professional Communication at Weber State University. Zach’s best story is told at home, where his is a husband, father of three daughters and an amateur chef.
Zubin Teherani, Co-Founder/COO | LeagueSide | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States | Operations | Industry: Advertising, Marketing, & Public Relations Background and Experience: Zubin is the Co-Founder/COO of LeagueSide (http://leagueside.com). LeagueSide’s platform aggregates sponsorship inventory across 8k leagues and sells it to companies including Post Cereal, Noodles and Company, and Popsicle. To date, LeagueSide’s has given over 10,000 kids the opportunity to play. Zubin started his entrepreneurial journey at Georgetown as the GM of the largest student-run business in the US. He spent his Venture for America fellowship in New Orleans working for IDScan.net where he sold its enterprise ID scanning products to Tesla, IBM, and the California DMV. He started LeagueSide after selling a rental property bidding platform to a real estate broker. Zubin has been featured on NPR, Entrepreneur.com, and the HuffPost. Zubin’s main obsession is increasing his vertical leap and landing backflips on the dance floor (90% success rate).
Zihan Zhou, Lecturer | Singapore University of Social Sciences | Singapore, Singapore, Singapore | Operations | Industry: Education and Training Background and Experience: Dr. Zhou Zihan obtained her Ph.D. in Operations Management from Nanyang Business School, Nanyang Technological University in 2017. Prior to that, she completed her BSc in Applied Mathematics with Computer Science minor at National University of Singapore in 2012. Currently, she is a lecturer at School of Business, Singapore University of Social Sciences. She has taught or assisted in teaching a wide range of courses—from first-year statistics and mathematics to MBA courses. She earned the APICS Certified in Production and Inventory Management designation in 2016. In 2015, she presented her research at POMS 26th Annual Conference in the USA and has been a member of POMS since then. Her research interests lie in inventory management, supply chain management, and mathematical optimization.
Sai K Paturi, Director and ERP consultant | Codeeva | Houston, Texas, United States | Information Technology | Industry: Energy & Utilities Background and Experience: Around 14 years of IT experience in System Study, Analysis, Design, Coding, Production Support Development and Implementation of business applications and BI solutions in Oracle/SQL Server environment using various tools/Technologies with Energy Services, Transportation, Health Care, Research and IT clients. Excellent skills in Designing and Development of applications using SQL, PL/SQL, Oracle Database 11g/10g/9i/8i/7i, Oracle EBS 10/11/12.2.3, Oracle Forms & Reports, Developer 2000, Oracle Apex (HTML DB)2.3/3.0/3.1/3.2/4.2/5.0, C, Java, JQUERY, AJAX, JSP, HTML. Founder of a company called Codeeva which is a client-oriented company where the emphasis will be on meeting the expectations and deadlines of clients without compromising on the quality. Codeeva offers all software related services such as web development, ERP, BI and Analytics solutions, cyber-security, cloud services and AVR to name a few. Our motto is Let us work together to meet your business goals
John Bailie, Head of Marketing | SaltDNA | Belfast, Antrim, United Kingdom | Marketing | Industry: Telecommunications Background and Experience: John Bailie is currently the Head of Marketing at global Cybersecurity company, SaltDNA. SaltDNA who are a Belfast based company who have been building secure enterprise mobile communications solutions since 2013. The SaltDNA product provides secure voice, messaging, conference calling and image transfer for busy executives, who need to make important decisions while on the move. John joined the SaltDNA team in 2016 first as Marketing Manager, and then onto Head of Marketing in 2018. John has played a crucial role in the company’s year on year sales growth through increasing the reputation of the company, as well as developing an engaging partner programme which has played a vital role in building SaltDNA’s global footprint. Away from SaltDNA John Bailie has been professionally recognised in recent years having been shortlisted for the Computing Security Excellence ‘Security Professional of the Year’ 2017, and Digital DNA’s 2018 ‘Young Person of the Year’. John has further work experiences having worked for International entertainment company Warner Bros.
Tim Brunicardi, Executive Director of Marketing, Public and Community Relations | Hocking College | Nelsonville, Ohio, United States | Marketing | Industry: Education and Training Background and Experience: Tim Brunicardi is the executive director of marketing, public and community relations at Hocking College. With more than 25 years as a marketing and communications professional, Brunicardi has worked in healthcare, higher education and government communications. He holds a bachelors in English from Marshall University and a masters in English from West Virginia University. As a result of a national search, Brunicardi was hired at Hocking College in 2017 to create and implement content marketing program which has since resulted in increased enrollment for the College.
Amal Ahmed, Head of Marketing & Communications, EMEA | Itiviti | London, London, United Kingdom | Marketing | Industry: Accounting, Banking, Financial, and Insurance Background and Experience: I’ve worked in Marketing for the past 12 years and presently hold a position at Itiviti as Head of Marketing & Communications, EMEA. I’m passionate about digital and enhancing the buyer journey using data-driven decisions.
Anjana Arora, SVP-Market Strategy | Infinite | Rockville, Maryland, United States | Management | Industry: Accounting, Banking, Financial, and Insurance Background and Experience: As Senior Vice President of Marketing for Infinite Computer Solutions, Anjana Arora is responsible for the company’s positioning in the marketplace. This includes public relations, analyst/advisory Relations, partnership agreements, content creation, events organization, and digital presence over the last 20 years. Anjana has held cross-functional leadership positions with companies such as GE, PwC and Booz Allen. Prior to being promoted to SVP-Market Strategy, she was VP of Marketing at Infinite and at Infinite Convergence Solutions. Anjana and her team build awareness regarding Infinite’s core competencies and opening new markets while supporting the technology and technical teams in delivering their customer commitments. Anjana’s areas of expertise include Telecom, Healthcare, Manufacturing and IT Services. Anjana hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from State University of NY at Binghamton. She is also a graduate of the GE MMP program.
Craig Granger, Director of Creative and Brand Management | University of Nevada, Las Vegas | Las Vegas, Nevada, United States | Marketing | Industry: Education and Training Background and Experience: With 20+ years of experience working in design services, brand governance, and creative marketing leadership roles, Craig approaches brand development and marketing from the creative side, believing that design-led organizations are always moving in the right direction. • Extensive experience collaborating with and managing in-house teams. • Expertise in corporate creative direction, advertising design, and brand governance Creative Direction | Team Leadership | Brand Management | Higher-Ed & Healthcare Marketing
Alisa Goldschmidt, Director of Sales Enablement | ManagedMethods | Boulder, Colorado, United States | Marketing | Industry: Security Software Background and Experience: I’m a results-driven, hands-on marketing leader with proven expertise developing successful multi-channel strategies for SaaS, software, and telecom companies. An energetic and productive contributor to company growth, I have experience in both start-up and mid-size company environments. I enjoy the challenge of learning new products and technologies and thrive on collaborating with team members across the company to achieve success.
Jhansi Ratna Bandaru, IT SAP Security Lead | Calumet Specialty Products Inc | Richmond, Texas, United States | Information Technology | Industry: Chemicals Background and Experience: I am Jhansi R Bandaru, a Strategic Information Technology Professional working with business process owners, auditors, architects and compliance organizations for aligning SAP security architecture, plans, controls, processes, policies and procedures with security standards and operational goals.IT SAP Security Lead with a passion and talent. I’m a results-driven Project Leader (PMP Certified) with with proven experience directing all phases of complex projects while managing, motivating and mentoring project team members.
Arno Nijhof, Commercial Director TNW X | TNW X | Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, Netherlands | Management | Industry: Consulting Background and Experience: Arno is a driven and creative professional with a natural sense for business. Within TNW he started its advisory arm as a one-man-show and built it to a global corporate innovation department, called TNW X. He is managing the TNW X team, a fast-growing team of 28 innovation professionals, focussing on both business and operations.
Roberto Vila Quinones, External & Digital Communications, LATAM | Mastercard | Miami, Florida, United States | Corporate Communications | Industry: Accounting, Banking, Financial, and Insurance Background and Experience: In my current role, I lead the external and digital communications efforts focused on Latin America and the Caribbean region. I started my career over 13 years ago leading projects for big companies in the financial ecosystem, in the Travel industry and also for fashion and luxury brands. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Communications, a Master’s Degree in Marketing and a Certificate in Digital Marketing. During my years of experience in Corporate Communications and Public Relations and as one of my favorites hobbies I have also had the opportunity to be a radio host in a topical news radio show for over 2 years.
Suman Thota, Sr Manager, Software Development | Amazon.com | Seattle, Washington, United States | Management | Industry: Information Technology Software Background and Experience: Technology leader in software development and transformation of mission-critical traditional/legacy software to modern services/architecture. Technology leader in creating products that combine the best of the Software (Scale, Big Data, Mission Critical) and Science (Machine Learning, Mathematical Optimization) concepts and methodologies. I am currently enjoying my time at the ‘Earth’s Most Customer-Centric Company-Amazon.’ – More than a decade of experience in managing high performing global software and teams. – Inventor of SABO ( Service frameworks, Angular JS, Bootstrap and Oracle Applications), an alternate UIX framework eBusiness Suite applications. – Experienced in leading and building technical platforms (using AWS and other cutting-edge technologies) responsible for BILLIONS of dollars of payments each month to vendors across the globe. – Subject Matter Expert in supplier payments execution, controllership and integration with different banking partners across the globe. – Unique experience in building teams and delivering products that integrate Science (Machine Learning, Math Optimization) and Technology. – Played various roles in the career before signing up for the current management/leadership role. Prior roles: Database Administrator, Unix Programmer, Oracle Applications Consultant/Lead/Developer, Oracle Product Developer, Technical Program Manager, Functional Analyst, Business Analyst and Architect – Received multiple awards including an ‘Innovation’ award from Amazon’s Vice President.
Gazanfurali Mohammed, SR Database Administrator | Cisco Systems, Inc. | San Jose, California, United States | Information Technology | Industry: Information Technology Hardware Background and Experience: Education: Master’s in computer applications. Experience: 18 years of IT experience Expertise: Expert in Oracle Databases, ERP Applications, Cassandra, MS SQL Server, MySQL and Apache Hadoop. Certificates: Oracle Database 9i,10g,11g,12c Certified Professional Certified Administrator on Apache Cassandra Certified Architect on Apache Cassandra Mapr certified Hadoop Cluster Administrator
Iva Turcin, Communications, CSR and Employer Branding Professional | A1 Hrvatska d.o.o. | Zagreb, Croatia, Croatia | Corporate Communications | Industry: Telecommunications Background and Experience: Experienced communication expert with a demonstrated history in a fast changing and challenging environment. Highly skilled in public relations with a great passion for corporate social responsibilty, corporate culture and employer branding. Almost 15 years working in PR, mostly in telecommunication industry in second largest telecom operator in Croatia – A1 Hrvatska. A1 Hrvatska is part of A1 Telekom Austria Group, a leading provider of digital services and communications solutions in Central and Eastern Europe with more than 24 million customers. Currently operating in seven countries: Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia and Slovenia (A1), Belarus (velcom), the Republic of Serbia (Vip mobile) and the Republic of North Macedonia (one.Vip). I am responsible for public relations, brand reputation, strengthening brand and image of the company, corporate culture development, CSR, events, internal and crisis communication. Main projects in career: developing and implementing first platform for crowdfunding in Croatia and region ‘Do the right thing platform’ http://www.cinipravustvar.hr which is gathering individuals who are willing to help NGOs and rebranding project – Vip became A1. After 19 years under name Vipnet, company changed name to A1 Hrvatska. This project won several international awards like Effie, PR World Awards.
Blake Pridham, Co-Founder & COO | Adventure Bucket List | Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada | Operations | Industry: Hospitality, Travel, Recreation, and Leisure Background and Experience: I was born in Toronto, Ontario but have dual citizenship to the US. I studied business at UBC and have lived in numerous areas including Lyon and the Bay Area. Currently, I am a co-founder of Adventure Bucket List based in Vancouver, Canada. I am passionate about travel, entrepreneurship, business development, operations, product UI/UX, and SaaS. I thrive in leadership and operational roles. I have a passion for solving complex business problems, developing business strategies that support high growth and working with global products. I have 7+ years of experience in operations and 2 years working in Marketing. I spent time in the tourism sector for 5 years as a guide, office manager and eventually director of operations at a canoe tripping outpost. When I am not working you will find me skiing at Whistler, hiking mountains, on my road bike or out camping.
Erinn Nobel, Managing Broker | eXp Brand Evangelist | eXp Realty | Bellingham, Washington, United States | Business Development | Industry: Real Estate and Construction Background and Experience: Managing Broker | Brand Evangelist, eXp Realty As an early adopter with eXp Realty, I joined the tech-forward real estate company when we had less than 300 agents across the US. Now, with 20,000+ agents across the US and Canada, we are expanding into the United Kingdom and Australia in the fall of 2019. eXp Realty has taken collaboration to the next level through it’s one of a kind virtual office environment. With a focus on growth and development, I work to communicate the tools, technology, and opportunities that eXp Realty provides to agents, brokers, and teams to build and scale their business from any time, anywhere. Agents with eXp Realty have the unique opportunity to take part in a variety of performance and growth incentives, including a company revenue-share program, multiple stock rewards and a lucrative ICON Agent Award for agents with leading production achievements. With a focus on innovation, eXp continues to forge new ground by building a collaborative network of like-minded agents across the globe who wish to work sustainably and efficiently, with 24/7 access to support and technology.
Katja Schroeder, President | ExpeditionPR | Brooklyn, New York, United States | Management | Industry: Engineering and Technology Background and Experience: Katja Schroeder’s specialty is to infuse startup thinking into marketing communications to innovate brand engagement with customers, employees, influencers, investors, and partners. She has led award-winning marketing communications programs for global corporation and startups. She is based in the U.S. and has previously worked in Germany, France, and China. Campaign topics focused on innovation, digitization, sustainability, and the future of work. To prepare the next generation of marketers, Katja teaches International Marketing and Digital Marketing as an Adjunct Professor at St. Francis College. Katja holds an M.A. in Communications and Business Administration from the Freie Universitaet Berlin, Germany, and an M.A. in Communications and Information Sciences from CELSA, Sorbonne, Paris, France.
Becky Boyd, VP | MediaFirst PR | Roswell, Georgia, United States | Public Relations | Industry: Automotive, Transportation, Storage, and Logistics Background and Experience: VP MediaFirst PR, a public relations, marketing, and social media agency specializing in transportation, supply chain, logistics, manufacturing, IT, and warehousing industries. MediaFirst clients have received “over 252% increase in PR over last year with a different agency” and “over 40 leads from 1 article” and “you put my security practice on the map.” I help separate our clients from the “noise” with strategies and messaging that wins the attention of prospective customers, industry analysts, the media, and potential investors. Manage staff and supply chain accounts, providing inbound marketing, social media campaigns, and public relations services. Previous Marketing Manager, e-Commerce Start-up: Created strategic positioning and messaging, developed competitive analysis, developed sales enablement materials, created marketing materials and developed a web site. Sales/Business Development at HP: 13 years of sales, marketing and business development to manufacturing, engineering, government, education, and health care industries. One of 85 sales reps around the world to win the prestigious President’s Award for dependability, consistent performance, customer satisfaction, mentorship, and leadership.
Elena Briola, VP Marketing | Cloud4Wi | San Francisco, California, United States | Marketing | Industry: Business Products and Services Background and Experience: Elena has 15+ years of marketing and technical expertise in the wireless industry. Currently Elena serves as VP Marketing at Cloud4Wi and she is responsible for all areas of marketing and communications, including demand generation, analysts and media relationship, product marketing, marketing and corporate communications. Thanks to her competences, Elena has managed complex projects, supporting various national and international customers in strategic activities, from the business planning to the product planning and marketing. Moreover, she has written several articles and reports on new generation wireless technologies. Elena started her career at Telecom Italia Labs in Turin, where she performed advanced Research & Development activities on mobile access networks. Then she moved to WiTech, where she served as CMO in the last period.She held a Degree in Telecommunications Engineering from the University of Pisa.
Beth Macdonald, COO | Dragon Innovation | Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States | Operations | Industry: Manufacturing Background and Experience: Beth Macdonald is Dragon Innovation’s Chief Operating Officer. She leads the Business Development and Marketing teams at Dragon, and works closely with the Engineering team to ensure customer happiness and satisfaction throughout ongoing engagements. Beth has been with the Dragon team for eight years and was at the forefront of establishing Dragon’s content, communications, events, social media, and public relations channels which has resulted in global brand recognition of the Dragon name. Prior to joining Dragon, Beth was the VP of Marketing for Live Nation, where she led the marketing and promotion for thousands of live events over the course of a decade, including launching the first ever concert at Fenway Park. Beth holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Cornell University.
Modafar Akhoirshieda, Manager | Dubai Electricity and Water Authority | Dubai, , United Arab Emirates | Business Development | Industry: Energy & Utilities Background and Experience: Modafar’s aspirations to continuous improvement had led him to accept a challenging role to establish DEWA’s first Future Shaping Center which aims at bringing and developing best practices in the field of future foresight and shaping that includes future trends and signals monitoring and analysis, cross impact analysis, developing future scenarios, exploring mid-far future growth opportunities, building internal organizational capabilities so everyone can understand, appreciate the importance and utilize foresight methodologies in their field. before accepting this role, Modafar worked as Business excellence manager at DEWA where he oversaw the development of processes and quality procedures related to IT, Innovation, and Knowledge Management in accordance to international good practices which he introduced based on structured benchmarking methodologies (Such as TRADE methodology). He helped in securing the accreditation of CEN/TS 16551 of Innovation Management systems in DEWA and the BS 13500 of organizational governance. Modafar is a certified excellence assessor where he was member of assessor teams at different high caliber regional and international awards.
Eli Lancry, VP of Technology | TIPA CORP | Hod Hasharon, Israel, Israel | Information Technology | Industry: Engineering and Technology Background and Experience: Dr. Lancry joined TIPA in 2017. He brings with him more than a decade of experience in leading R&D department in industrial firms as well as startup companies of the chemical industry. Prior to TIPA, Dr. Lancry served as the R&D division manager at Israel Chemicals Ltd (NYSE and TASE: ICL), a global manufacturer of products in agriculture, food and engineered materials; where he was in charge of the inorganic R&D of bromine compounds. Previously, Eli was the lab manager at ETV Motors, which specializes in the development of 5V cathodes for electric vehicle batteries, where he was responsible for the cell fabrication and testing laboratories of the company. Prior to joining ETV Motors, Eli worked at Teva pharmaceuticals and Intel electronics in Israel. Dr. Lancry background includes Ph.D. and B. Sc. in physical Chemistry from Bar-Ilan University.
Mark Fletcher, Chief Architect Public Safety Solutions | Avaya, Inc. | Morris, New Jersey, United States | Operations | Industry: Telecommunications Background and Experience: Since 1980, “Fletch” has contributed in various roles in the Public Safety industry. Through work with the Office of the CTO at Nortel and Avaya, Fletch holds 13 US Patents, focusing on NG911 additional data to PSAPs, as well as multimedia call handling functionality for 9-1-1 emergency call takers. On February 6, 2019 he implemented the world’s first enterprise NG911 Additional Data Repository through a partnership with 911 Secure, and RapidSOS. This delivered floorplans and additional location data details to the PSAP at Memphis PD through an integration with the RapidSOS NG911 National ADR, demonstrating Avaya’s digital transformation roadmap, ensuring the requirements for NENA i3 are met for the Enterprise and Public Safety. Fletch represents Avaya in NENA, EENA, and APCO International, and has contributed to several standards and best practices both here and abroad. Between 2014 and 2018, he served as a member of the APCO Standards Development Committee and Technical Subcommittee. He currently serves as the Northeast Region Liaison on the NENA Institute Board.. He has also previously held Federal Advisory roles at the FCC sitting on the EAAC, TFOPA, and the Disability Advisory Committee, where he most recently served as co-chair on the Emergency Communications sub-committee.
Guy Bunker, CTO | Clearswift LTD | Theale, Berkshire, United Kingdom | Product Development | Industry: Security Software Background and Experience: Dr. Guy Bunker is Chief Technology Officer for Clearswift. Guy is responsible for R&D, product strategy, technology partnerships and M&A. He is an internationally renowned IT expert with over 20 years’ experience in Information Security. Previously Guy held senior roles with companies including HP, Symantec, Veritas and Oracle. Guy is a frequently invited speaker at security conferences such as RSA, SecurityDays (Japan), CeBIT (Germany), DSEI (UK), ISSA (USA) and has made many appearances in the media, including the BBC and national press around the world. Guy is a board advisor for several small technology businesses and has published books on utility computing, backup and data loss prevention including “Data Leaks For Dummies”. Guy also holds a PhD in Computer Science (Artificial Neural Networks) from King’s College London, several patents and is a Chartered Engineer with the IET.
Fabrice Pakin, CEO | Ignilife | Biot Sophia-Antipolis, Alpes-Maritimes, France | Management | Industry: Information Technology Software Background and Experience: Founder and CEO of Ignilife, a French digital health startup that values behavior change in chronic disease prevention and management. Prior to Ignilife, Fabrice worked for IT service companies conducting innovative projects for large customers in Europe. He also spent six years in Brazil within his own company, Magellan Multimedia, specializing in the creation and distribution of digital educational content.
Brian Rubin-Sowers, VP / Co-Founder | fortyseven communications | New York, New York, United States | Public Relations | Industry: Advertising, Marketing, & Public Relations Background and Experience: Brian is a vice president and co-founder of fortyseven communications, and oversees the agency’s New York office. During his 20+ years in public relations, Brian has led corporate, product, event and entertainment campaigns for clients including Disney Interactive Studios, Electronic Arts, the Game Developers Conference, IGN, Space Ape Games, Square Enix Japan, Super Evil Megacorp, Supercell, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, The Tribeca Games Festival, Bloomsbury Children’s Books, Fox Home Entertainment, FremantleMedia, Lincoln Center Theater, Manhattan Theatre Club, and Playmates Toys among many others. Brian began his career publicizing theatrical productions at two of Southern California’s most recognized regional theatres before moving to New York, where he worked as a theatrical press agent for six Broadway seasons before moving into interactive entertainment PR. Brian holds a BA from Occidental College and an MFA from New School University. Brian lives in Brooklyn with his husband, their two daughters and their miniature labradoodle.
Robb Zurek, Sr. Marketing Manager | Wolters Kluwer’s Lien Solutions | Houston, Texas, United States | Marketing | Industry: Information Technology Software Background and Experience: I’m a passionate and proven professional with experience in all facets of B-to-B marketing; with particular expertise in strategic positioning and communications. I have shown measurable success in shaping strategic direction and marketing plan implementation, to ensure brand equity, thought leadership, target revenue achievement and internal support. I’ve been able to show that I am an influential communicator and relationship-builder with a track record of embracing, influencing and leading diverse networks of teams, stakeholders and business partners. I have more than 20 years of experience across business segments and that experience has given me a very good perspective on what works, what doesn’t and what’s cool and what isn’t. I am a very curious person that loves to learn about new things and I love to share my thoughts with others! Because of my experience working with Golden Bridge Awards in the past, I feel my perspective would be an asset to the community.
Jed Ayres, CEO & President | IGEL Technology | San Francisco, California, United States | Management | Industry: Information Technology Software Background and Experience: I am a passionate business leader engaged in developing high impact partnerships, high growth go to market strategies, differentiated branding, all driven by next generation marketing. I am an accomplished senior executive with expertise in technology sales and marketing, with diversification in the telecommunications and hospitality industries. I have achieved success at global companies, as well as smaller entities with a passionate focus on top line growth. At IGEL I’ve helped transform and scale a German hardware company into a disruptive software company. Crossing the $100m revenue threshold with triple digit software growth. Winning awards for our channel programs, marketing, workplace, and innovation. Prior to my current CEO and CMO role at IGEL I was SVP Marketing at AppSense. I was responsible for AppSense’s corporate marketing, social, branding, communications and lead generation strategies. During my one year tenure at AppSense I helped move from a decline in revenue to record double digit growth and profitability. I also assisted in the packaging and positioning of the company for a successful sale to ivanti. I hold a bachelor‘s degree in business from Sonoma State and a MBA from SF State.
Nikki Ziolo, Account DIrector | Highwire PR | CHICAGO, Illinois, United States | Public Relations | Industry: Advertising, Marketing, & Public Relations Background and Experience: Nikki is a seasoned media relations professional with 10 years of experience supporting enterprise, developer and security companies. Nikki’s led PR for clients such as IBM – Analytics Platform Service, Cloudera, Qualys, GitLab and PwC, providing strategic council and developing successful media campaigns that contribute to overall business goals. She’s nimble, creative, a master with media and thrives in the fast paced environment of PR. Outside of work, Nikki is a board member on Chicago’s largest farmers market, The Green City Market, helping to communicate their mission and values to the Chicago community. Nikki is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin – Madison.
Hanna Oksanen, Graphic Designer | University of Turku | Turku, Turku, Finland | Corporate Communications | Industry: Education and Training Background and Experience: I’m a photographer and graphic Designer at the University of Turku communications. I’ve been working last 10 years with university branding and visual identity, corporate communications visual needs for press, web-pages, social media etc., photography, video and print materials for student marketing , planning and organizing visual materials and decorations for events and fairs. I also work closely with our partners in advertising and printing companies.
Eetedal Alnajeam, CEO | PBy | Riyadh, Center, Saudi Arabia | Business Development | Industry: Business Products and Services Background and Experience: Eetedal the CEO of a pbs company, has 17th years experience , Ms. Eetedal Najmi , that spark ignited with the dawn of innovation and Enterpernuership in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia. In 2012 was still in its infancy but the entrepreneurial muscles kicked in when she had left her corporate senior role at Mobily t o launch PBS and the success had taken place from the start.
Narendra Ravula, Enterprise database Architect | Exterran corporation | Houston, Texas, United States | Information Technology | Industry: Information Technology Software Background and Experience: Have a 15 Years experience as an Enterprise Database,Applications,Infra Architect & Hybrid Cloud Integration . Hands on Experience on oracle apps,database,SQL server database and All type of Oracle Applications and oracle cloud technologies. Had multiple certifications with oracle and Management. Worked for multiple client Environments in consulting Group and involved in multiple implementation,Migrations and Upgrade projects
Santanu Baruah, Vice President | Goldman Sachs | New York, New York, United States | Information Technology | Industry: Accounting, Banking, Financial, and Insurance Background and Experience: Santanu is a Digital Experience expert at Marcus by Goldman Sachs (www.marcus.com) . Marcus is the Consumer Bank by Goldman Sachs that provides Loans and Deposit Account services, along with its recent foray into Personal Finance Management ( Clarity Money mobile app ) and Apple Card. Santanu manages an international team to lead the Marketing Technology group at Marcus which is responsible for providing Digital Marketing, Content Management, Emails, Direct-Mails, A/B Testing and other critical marketing related solutions for all the product lines of Marcus. Santanu is a Subject Matter Expert in the Adobe Marketing Cloud that has the right tools to help business teams make data driven decisions by measuring customer behavior at different parts / pages of the website Marcus.com ( primary website for the banking products ) Santanu also evaluates vendors, new technologies, software, new hires etc. for addition to Marcus for growth. In the past Santanu has developed Software for clients like Intel, JP Morgan etc. for other consulting firms before Goldman Sachs. Santanu can be found in linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/santanu-baruah-gs/
Madhusudan Deshpande Shailesh, IT developer III | CSAA Insurance Group | Glendale, Arizona, United States | Information Technology | Industry: Engineering and Technology Background and Experience: Data warehouse developer with experience working on Informatica , ODI , Datastage Solid Understanding of Dimensional Modeling concepts, Oracle and Unix with background in Integration development and testing. Very passionate, hardworking and results oriented. Endurance is my key strength. Expertise includes: • Informatica 8.x/9.x , ODI, datastage • Data Integration • Performance Tuning • Shell Scripting • SQL , PL/SQL • Query Optimization Techniques • Data Analysis • Data Validation • Autosys Job Scheduling • Data Warehousing Methodologies • Dimensional Modeling • SQL, UNIX • Knowledge of salesforce.com
Ghada Amer, V.P. | Arab Science and Technology Foundation | Shiekh Zayed, Giza, Egypt | Others… | Industry: Engineering and Technology Background and Experience: Prof. of Power Electrical Engineer & V.P. of the ASTF, She holds few more positions within her profession, like the CEO and the Co-founder of ASTF innovation Lab, the ex-Head of Electrical Engineering Department at Benha University and the CEO of the Global Awqaf Research Center, in 2016 she selected to be one of the Rolex Enterprise Awards for Innovation Jury members. She was names in Jan 2014 as one of “Top 20 Influential Muslim Women Scientist in the World”, by an international committee residing on Muslim-Science, as an emerging champion “power woman”. Also she ranked the first place for the 50 most prominent leader in entrepreneurship of the Arab woman in 2014 issued by the Sayidaty magazine, and in 2016,2017 she named one of the “the 500 Most Influential Muslims”, in the filed of S&T, by The Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre. she developed and led more than 20 projects and programs to support scientific development and entrepreneurship. She (by fundraising) was able to bring nearly $ 2 million, to support the RDI, and to support entrepreneurship activity to create jobs and to support the Arab community، for that she help to established 142 start-up from innovative ideas.
Guillaume Thomas, CEO | Aladom | Rennes, Ille-et-Vilaine, France | Management | Industry: Information Technology Software Background and Experience: Founder of Aladom Cofounder of Cocoonr
Babur Khan, Technical Marketing Engineer | A10 Networks Inc. | San Jose, California, United States | Marketing | Industry: Security Software Background and Experience: I am a Technical Marketing Engineer at A10 Networks Inc. Primarily, I focus on A10’s Enterprise Security solutions, including the SSL Insight (SSL decryption) and the Secure Web Gateway solutions. I have also worked with A10’s DDoS protection solution called Thunder TPS (Threat Protection System). Prior to this, I was a member of A10’s Corporate Systems Engineering team, focusing on Application Delivery Controllers. I hold a master’s degree in Computer Science from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, with a focus on network security.
Gamze Bingol, Marketing Manager | Atar Labs A.S | ankara, 24th Floor the Shard 32 London Bridge Street London, Turkey | Marketing | Industry: Security Software Background and Experience: Senior Marketing Professional specialized in digital marketing with 10+ years of experience both in agency and brand side, with a proven track record of positioning, planning, and implementing marketing strategies to support business goals. Graduated from IZTECH, Chem. Eng. and now, at Atar Labs she is dedicated to build, grow and maintain business objectives into successful, measurable marketing in an international environment.
Frasnk Meo, Founder | thephotocloser.com | Millburn, New Jersey, United States | Marketing | Industry: Advertising, Marketing, & Public Relations Background and Experience: Founder of thephotocloser.com, Frank advises and consulates with photographers from around the globe. His services include estimating and negotiating of behalf of photographers to ad agencies. Part of the photo closer offering is brainstorming that motivates and inspires photographer of all levels. He is also a curator. For 25 years, has represented fine art, commercial photographers as well as Pulitzer Prize winning photojournalists in securing highly valued commercial assignments. He has worked on hundreds of company photo libraries and campaigns for clients such as American Express, Acura Motor Sports, US Coast Guard Xerox, ESPN, Citi, Nike and others. His photographers have work for every major newspaper, magazine and TV station around the globe. Meo participates on various panels and workshops for: PhotoShelter, the International Center of Photography (ICP), The Eddie Adams Workshop,The Art Directors Club, Syracuse University and The One Club for Art & Copy, American Society of Media Photographers (ASMP), and Advertising Photographers of America (APA), PDN Expo and Palm Springs Photo Festival. He was a nominator for the prestigious Infinity Awards.
Fabio Ferrari, CEO | Symbio | Paris, Paris, France | Others… | Industry: Automotive, Transportation, Storage, and Logistics Background and Experience: Provide electric mobility lasting momentum and revolutionise the world of transport. That is Symbio’s objective. Now a subsidiary of the Michelin Group, Symbio is a parts manufacturer specialised in hydrogen fuel cell systems – a company which I co-founded and manage. I am also the Senior Vice President of the French Association for Hydrogen and Fuel Cells (AFHYPAC) and the Project Leader of Hydrogen Mobility France – a consortium that actively participates in creating complete hydrogen ecosystems (production – consumption – distribution) within the French territories. Shake the status quo by growing disruptive innovations. For years, this has been my motto
Melissa Brandao, CEO & Founder | http://www.herddogg.com | Ashland, Oregon, United States | Product Development | Industry: Consumer Products and Services Background and Experience: Melissa Brandao is Founder and CEO of HerdDogg. Her career has spanned two decades in international business and product development at Apple, Euromoney, MCI and Embratel. Recognized as a rural innovator by the Lemelson Center for the Study of Invention and Innovation at the Smithsonian, Melissa advocates for better technical jobs for rural America by focusing on solving old industry challenges. Prior to HerdDogg, Melissa founded the electric vehicle company, Barefoot Motors, the first female to found vehicle company in the US. She was Invited by President Obama to participate first ever White House Demo Day. Melissa appeared in the 2016 reality TV show, sponsored by Intel and produced by Mark Burnett, “America’s Greatest Makers.” She graduated from St. Mary’s College of California with a B.A. in Management. She speaks several languages and currently holds two US patents.
David Brown, CEO | BroadBit Batteries | Espoo, Uusimaa, Finland | Management | Industry: Energy & Utilities Background and Experience: David Brown is the co-founder and CEO of BroadBit Batteries (www.broadbit.com: novel, high performance sodium based batteries) and has been a Fulbright Fellow (atmospheric physics) and a co-founder and former CEO of Canatu (www.canatu.com: carbon nanomaterial based electronics, optics and energystorage), Teicos Pharma (www.teicospharma.com: formulation of pharmaceuticals for delivery to the lungs), Almakor (www.almakor.com: Optical fiber manufacturing processes) andStreamWise (www.streamwisecfd.eu: computer simulation of gas/particle systems). He has raised and managed over 40M$ and brought multiple technologies from concept to commercial use. He has more than 150 scientific articles, 200 granted and pending patents and 100 invited talks on, for instance, batteries, thin film electronics, entrepreneurship, nanotechnology, synthesis and deposition of nanomaterials, drug delivery and formulation, nuclear energy and nuclear safety, atmospheric physics and modeling and algorithms for designing and characterizing materials and aerosol processes. He has also worked as an advisor and independent contractor for many important technology players including Honda, Du Pont, Daikin, Kemira, NASA, the US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the Finnish National Research Centre (VTT) and the Paul Scherrer Institute.
Anna Jo, Marketing Manager | Looxid Labs | Seoul, Seoul, Korea, Republic of | Marketing | Industry: Information Technology Hardware Background and Experience: Anna Jo is an award-winning marketing & communications professional with 7 years of experience ranging from communications consulting to product and digital marketing. Her proven marketing experience with a science background and highly analytical abilities have provided strategic and unconventional approaches and solutions to her work in terms of communication context. Anna is the marketing manager of Looxid Labs, leading on/offline marketing campaigns to promote the company’s technology and products including VR emotion recognition system and emotion AI by collaborating with cross-functional teams since 2016. Looxid Labs has been recognized – CES 2018 Best of Innovation Award and Startup Battlefield | TechCrunch Disrupt SF 2017 since Anna joined this company. Prior to Looxid Labs, she was working for Ketchum, a global public relations firm. Anna earned a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Bio and Brain Engineering at KAIST.
Kris Brown, Area Sales Manager | Amiad Water Systems | Coopers Plains, Queensland, Australia | Sales | Industry: Others… Background and Experience: Warehousing, supply and logistics experience in food distribution, ground engaging tools for heavy machinery and heavy diesel spares. Internal technical support and parts interpreter experience for heavy diesel engine and machine spares. Sales and technical roles for mining and industrial pumping and very wide range of water control and process equipment. Sales, Technical and Management of dealer networks, high level negotiations for project and complex supply agreements and running training seminars for filtration, water treatment and air/control valve products in Mining, Irrigation, Industrial and Municipal industries.
Lorie Boyd, Vice President, People | Turo Inc. | San Francisco, California, United States | Human Resources | Industry: Consumer Products and Services Background and Experience: I’m a native Californian who grew up thinking I was going to be a CFO someday. After obtaining my Economics degree from Stanford, I worked for a few years as auditor for the Big Six. During that time, I enjoyed interviewing college students for new grad roles, so I made a career shift and joined Oracle as a college recruiter where I primarily hired engineers. After a few years at Oracle, I decided to join this small company called Salesforce.com where I initially hired as their Recruiting Manager but was then quickly promoted to serve as HR Manager. It was there that I was bitten by the start-up bug. Over the past 25 years, I have worked for a number of start-ups including Zendesk where I led global recruiting and grew headcount from 100 to 900+ employees in my three years there. In my current role at Turo, I own everything People-related: recruiting, benefits, compensation, immigration, performance management, retention, learning & development, employee engagement, and reward & recognition. I live to build incredible teams. And building within a start-up environment is where I thrive. I am fortunate to have found incredible companies and teams that support my continued career aspirations.
Nehal Padia, Sr Technical Program Manager | Hulu, LLC | Santa Monica, California, United States | Information Technology | Industry: Media & Entertainment Background and Experience: High-performing and results-driven Sr IT professional with over 16 years of success in driving global technology programs and projects. A vision-driven and hard-working self-starter with a broad knowledge of financial planning, resource allocation, and technical skills which contribute to continued success. Strong communication abilities and leadership experience to support cross-functional teams in fulfilling complex IT implementations and user experience projects.
Jeremy Resnick, Director, Curriculum and Instruction | Ventura County Office of Education | Camarillo, California, United States | Training | Industry: Education and Training Background and Experience: Jeremy Resnick began his educational career as a high school English teacher in the Conejo Valley. He moved to Texas in 2003 where he continued to teach before transitioning as the Director of Assessment for the Richardson Independent School District. In 2008, he returned to California and served in the Las Virgenes Unified School District as a high school administrator and as an elementary school principal where his school was recently recognized with the State’s Gold Ribbon Award. Mr. Resnick holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of California, Davis and a Master of Arts degree in Education from Pepperdine University. Mr. Resnick has a keen interest in providing quality support and training to all educators within the MTSS Framework with a focus on Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports and Universal Design for Learning.
Jess Lindberg, Director | REQ | Vienna, Virginia, United States | Public Relations | Industry: Others… Background and Experience: As a successful communication professional with nearly 15 years of broad experience in leading start-up and account teams, Jess is an extremely focused, driven, and results-oriented leader. With a background in marketing, Jess brings a creative lens and a passion for technology to her work crafting communications strategies to help her clients stand out in crowded markets. Her technology experience crosses numerous platforms and industries including open source, cybersecurity, healthcare, telecom, and enterprise software. Prior to joining REQ, Jess was the Senior Director of Public Relations and Marketing at Rally Health, a digital health platform. There, she built the marketing department and oversaw marketing campaigns, public relations, content strategy, and branding initiatives. Jess thrives on mentorship and management. In addition to her teams, direct reports, and colleagues, she has poured time and attention into coaching through the PR Intern Program she has run for the last six years. Jess has volunteered her time advising on communications and marketing best practices through her roles as a Communications Advisor for Zooma, a women-only running race series, as well as with the local chapters of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America and Moms Run This Town.
Jukka Pitkänen, Chief Medical Officer | Heltti Inc. | Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland | Management | Industry: Healthcare, Pharmaceuticals, Biotech, Health Products & Services Background and Experience: I hold an M.D. and a Ph.D. degree, and am a specialist in occupational health and industrial hygiene. I have worked in the private healthcare sector for 15 years, first for Pihlajalinna Plc for 12 years and currently at Heltti Inc. My current title is chief medical officer, and as such I’m responsible for all medical and healthcare related operative functions as well as their strategic development.
Kristoffer Nolgren, CPO | Sanslöst Aktiebolag | Stockholm, Sverige, Sweden | Product Development | Industry: Engineering and Technology Background and Experience: Worked as a CPO product manager for 11 years, taken 3 companies from idea to market.
Larry Goldberg, Founder & Evangelist | Sapiens Decision | Raleigh, North Carolina, United States | Management | Industry: Information Technology Software Background and Experience: Larry Goldberg is the co-founder, Evangelist and Senior Vice-president of Sapiens Decision, responsible for corporate and product strategy. He was Co-founder and Managing Partner of Knowledge Partners International LLC, which was acquired by Sapiens to form Sapiens Decision. Larry has nearly fifty years of experience in building technology based companies on four continents. Commercial applications in which he played a primary architectural role include such diverse domains as healthcare, supply chain, property & casualty insurance, financial services and enterprise modeling tools. He has been the business lead and/or business sponsor on many major projects in both the public and private sector, and is a trusted adviser to senior executives of major corporations. Larry is a leading international authority on business requirements: he is the co-author of the best-selling book “The Decision Model: A Business Logic Framework Linking Business and Technology” (Auerbach, New York 2009), one of the seminal works that inspired the Decision Management movement. Larry was an author of Decision Modeling and Notation (DMN), an Object Management Group (OMG) specification, an emerging industry standard. With his co-inventor, Barbara von Halle, he is the patent holder of The Decision Model (#8,073,801) and together with several others, The Event Model (#9,823,905)
William Peres, Founder & CEO | SERIOUS FACTORY | SURESNES, Hauts-de-Seine, France | Management | Industry: Education and Training Background and Experience: With more than 20 years of experience in 3D and immersive technologies, William founded Serious Factory with one goal in mind: ensuring that everybody has access to personal growth of competencies to increase employment capabilities. His vision of Learning & Development relies on what he believes is the missing link of training programs: practice of competencies and behaviours that fit the real needs of companies nowadays. To achieve this, Serious Factory focused on 2 main objectives: a tailor-made approach for premium eLearning projects made with an agile methodology called co-design and the development of its own authoring tool, VTS Editor, to democratise 3D simulations and Serious Games to make it accessible to everyone. Indeed, internalizing your production of training content reduces costs drastically (For a fraction of the cost of creating one project externally, companies can now create unlimited number of projects internally), customize the learner’s experience according to the company’s values (increase in knowledge retention) and gives the manager control over the growth of its employees (quantitative and qualitative feedback)!
Laurent Michaud, Head of Creative industry & Games | IDATE DigiWorld | CLAPIERS, Hérault, France | Information Technology | Industry: Consulting Background and Experience: Laurent joined IDATE DigiWorld in 2000. Laurent is in charge of all market reports dealing with the gaming industry and more generally, those devoted to digital entertainment. His area of expertise covers technological innovation, market analysis, business strategies, strategic marketing, industry planning, networking, event organisation, coaching… Laurent is Chairman of the Haut-de-France video game fund. He is also a lecturer for IDATE DigiWorld, specialising in video game economics and industrial strategies for multimedia products. He is the co-founder and a member of Push Start, the cluster for video game professionals and future professionals in Occitania. Laurent is also an advisor for the EdTech & Entertainment thematic network for Montpellier Méditerranée Métropole French Tech.
Agnieszka Szczesna, Communications Manager | CrossLend | Berlin, Berlin, Germany | Corporate Communications | Industry: Accounting, Banking, Financial, and Insurance Background and Experience: Communications professional working for top agencies worldwide, a guest lecturer on branding and innovation at TU Berlin: Technische Universität Berlin.
Tammy Black, External Relations Director | HASA | Baltimore, Maryland, United States | Corporate Communications | Industry: Non-Profit or Government Organizations Background and Experience: Tammy serves as External Relations Director, managing the development and communications teams in building partnerships and support to expand HASA’s reach throughout Maryland. Her career began at a local community development corporation followed by a decade of health advocacy work at two national nonprofit healthcare organizations. During that time, she launched Relay For Life events in South Florida, spearheaded Baltimore’s Go Red For Women campaign with The American Heart Association and led a capacity-building initiative for a network of policy research centers in 29 states at The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. At HASA, she leads the organization in outreach initiatives for various topics including education, hearing health, inclusion, language access, and speech-language issues. She has overseen a complete rebranding of the organization through the development of a new strategic communications plan, logo, and web presence. She launched The Baltimore Soundscape Project, which has received national attention since its inception. Tammy serves on the Community Advisory Board of WYPR. She received undergraduate degrees from West Chester University in Political Science and Public Administration and a Masters of Public Administration from Nova Southeastern University, with a concentration in Nonprofit Management.
Jakob Knightly, CEO | Piggybank | Portland, Oregon, United States | Business Development | Industry: Accounting, Banking, Financial, and Insurance Background and Experience: Owner and series A investor
Yuval Wagner, Founder, President | Access Israel | Hod Hasharon, Not Applicable, Israel | Management | Industry: Non-Profit or Government Organizations Background and Experience: 20 years of experience in innovation NGO leadership, Making Israel accessible and inclusive for people with disabilities. Entrepreneur of new innovating methods to achieve valuable effective results. International speaker. A judge in many accessibility tech hackathons
Oded Ilan, CMO | Iridize | Tel Aviv, Not USA/Canada, Israel | Management | Industry: Business Products and Services Background and Experience: Oded believes in making the impossible possible, and with over 20 years of experience in global marketing and business development for high tech industries has made this belief a reality. Oded has deep knowledge of enterprise sales and global marketing of SaaS products. His previous roles include CEO and Co-Founder of Comobile (LBS Software), VP Business Development at Credics (card processing industry) and VP Business Development at NeoVSP and at Videocells.
Louise Wong, Head of Event Operations, Asia-Pacific | Infopro Digital | Hong Kong, Hong Kong Island, Hong Kong | Operations | Industry: Accounting, Banking, Financial, and Insurance Background and Experience: Louise is an experienced Event Management leader with a demonstrated history of working in the financial publishing sector. Specialised in B2B financial conferences, seminars and awards dinner planning, with scale ranging from 20 people briefings to over 800 people conference across Asia Pacific region.
Josh Simons, CEO | Vampr Inc. | Santa Monica, California, United States | Management | Industry: Consumer Products and Services Background and Experience: Josh is the CEO and co-founder of Vampr – the world’s largest social network for musicians. Prior to starting Vampr in 2015 he was a successful songwriter and indie record label manager with 10 million+ streams under his belt including songs with Travis Scott and global touring experience with Carrie Underwood and Keith Urban. Josh holds a Bachelor of Business from Swinburne University, where he specialized in Advertising.
Xavier Wilkie, Sales Director | Jean CHEREAU SAS | Avranches, Manche, France | Business Development | Industry: Automotive, Transportation, Storage, and Logistics Background and Experience: Specialized in B to B since the beginning of my career, I am the commercial director of Jean CHEREAU SAS, n°1 in France and n°3 in Europe for the manufacture of refrigerated trailers. Sales orientation I think innovation is essential for business development. Jean CHEREAU SAS invests more than 3 million euros each year in research and development. We have just launched the first autonomous hydrogen-powered refrigerated trailer on the road.
Oliver Dannenberg, Director Cooperations | FFG FINANZCHECK Finanzportale GmbH | Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany | Business Development | Industry: Accounting, Banking, Financial, and Insurance Background and Experience: Professional sales and media specialist with focus on maximizing sales by acquiring and managing accounts systematically and with strong personal relationships. Believes that consistency and dedication build the most successful business partnerships. Long lasting network of decision makers in several industries. Experienced in the finance and insurance industry, digital and most of non-digital media, strategic thinker and active problem solver with +10y expertise and passion in sales and account management
Vince Sharps, EVP | Mindgrub | Baltimore, Maryland, United States | Others… | Industry: Others… Background and Experience: After settling in Maryland, Vince became a partner in his first print marketing & graphic design firm in his early twenties and has had an entrepreneurial spirit ever since. As a young entrepreneur, this platform enabled and encouraged him to be an advocate for people in his community and beyond. Former cast member on the FOX Reality Television Show, “Good Fellas of Baltimore,” he has also supported & sponsored many nonprofit & networking organizations in the Baltimore area. As the son of a retired U.S. Air Force officer, Vince spent most of his childhood traveling around the country and the world with a great deal of his formative years being raised in Europe. He attributes his worldview and character to this upbringing abroad.
Susan Summons, Professor and Head Women’s Basketball Coach | Miami Dade College-Kendall Campus | Miami, Florida, United States | Others… | Industry: Education and Training Background and Experience: http://www.susansummonsspeaks.com will provide you a great background and commentary of my experience in the education, sports and professional industry. 6 time Hall of Fame Honors National Coach of the Year Two MDC Endowed Teaching Faculty Chair Award Americas TOP 100 Most Influential Sports Educators 3 Time USA BAsketball Assistant Coach
Velvet Spicer, Reporter | Rochester Business Journal | Rochester, New York, United States | Others… | Industry: Media & Entertainment Background and Experience: Velvet has worked as a journalist for the weekly Rochester Business Journal for 17 years. She reports on the local economy, nonprofits, manufacturing, automotive and trucking industries, women’s issues and diversity and inclusion. She is a graduate of the College at Brockport with degrees in business administration and journalism, as well as a master’s in communications she earned while working full-time at the RBJ. She has received a number of awards for her writing including Best Business Story – 2nd Place from the National Newspaper Association’s 2016 Better Newspaper Contest and 2016 Writer of the Year – Second Place from the New York Press Association. Velvet is a member of the Society for Professional Journalists, Columbia Journalism Review, Rochester Media Association, New York Press Association and a number of local women’s and networking groups. She has volunteered with the Alzheimer’s Association and with the Verona Street Animal Society. She serves on several committees within the Rochester Women’s Network. Velvet is an outspoken advocate for domestic abuse victims and animal rights issues and has been tapped to lecture on the topic of fire prevention.
Stephane Gervais, Executive VP Strategic Innovation | LACROIX Group | Saint-Herblain, Loire-Atlantique, France | Others… | Industry: Electronics Background and Experience: Stéphane Gervais has more than 25 years of experience in the high-tech industry as global marketing, business development, innovation, project management, and product designer. He has worked for multi-national companies in Europe and in Asia in the consumer and industrial segments. Stéphane also has experience in emerging technologies and markets. His current position is Executive VP Strategic Innovation at LACROIX Group : Industrial Internet-of-Things (IIoT), new technologies, electronics, autonomous vehicle and smart city are some of his favorite’s topics. Stéphane holds a Doctorate degree (Ph. D) in Electronics from the University of Bordeaux (France) and an MBA degree from Newcastle University, Australia. He holds patents and wrote numerous papers..
Viola Llewellyn, Co-Founder & President | Ovamba Solutions, Inc. | Chevy Chase, Maryland, United States | Management | Industry: Business Products and Services Background and Experience: Viola Llewellyn is the co-founder and President of award winning FinTech company, Ovamba Solutions, where she oversees innovation, strategic implementation, investor communications, and business development. Ms. Llewellyn has held positions with companies such as Unisys Corporation, IBM, KPMG Consulting, BearingPoint and Rothschild’s. She was listed in the “Digital Undivided Report” as one of only 34 Black women in the USA to have raised more than $1 million for a technology company. She is listed on both Innovate Finance’s 2016 and 2017 “Women in FinTech Power List”, and “The Innov8tiv’s Top 50 Visionary Women in Tech To Watch in 2017” list. Ms. Llewellyn was the first Female African Tech Founder to speak at both “Slush”, Helsinki and “Slush, Tokyo” and in late 2018, she did a TED Talk as part of the “Reboot” Series with Boston Consulting Group. In 2018. Ms. Llewellyn was selected by the World Economic Forum as a Global Technology Pioneer and has spoken at the prestigious “Davos Summit” conference. Viola Llewellyn’s family is from Cameroon. She was born, raised and educated in the U.K. and lives between the African Continent and the USA.
Sarah-Jade Lacoursiere, Head of Business Development for Professional Channel, North America | FOREO, Inc. | Las Vegas, Nevada, United States | Business Development | Industry: Business Products and Services Background and Experience: With more than 10 years working in sales in the beauty industry and experience with leading cosmetic brands, Sarah-Jade knows what it takes to build customer loyalty and brand visibility. In her role at FOREO managing clients accounts in the U.S. and Canada, she leads new business development, partnership collaborations, and trade shows. Since its launch in 2013, FOREO has continually gained international recognition for its ever inventive technology that sets industry trends. In 5 years, the company has grown from a startup beauty innovator to a global entity.
Jenny Nichols, Executive Director | MyComputerCareer | Holly Springs, North Carolina, United States | Marketing | Industry: Education and Training Background and Experience: I have a passion to perform! Marketing, advertising, and analytics nerd. Marketing and Social Media expert. Enthusiastic, inspired, and motivated professional, with an outward excitement for operational excellence. Top performer, providing exemplary leadership, while also exceeding departmental goals and company objectives. Public Relations and Marketing – Strategize and implement social media, email, web, mobile, press and event marketing campaigns – Develop lead tracking mechanisms to analyze and improve the effectiveness of lead generation conversion – Create and execute a successful brand awareness and reputation management strategy – Develop and evaluate marketing strategies, based on objectives, market characteristics, and costs – Establish effective working relationships with clients, government officials, communities, media partners and media representatives Training and Operational Leadership – Salesforce implementation, adoption, training, usage and provide end-user help – Monitor CRM systems operation and maintenance, always to ensure optimum performance – Developed quarterly action plans, managed company resources, and enhanced productivity – Built and executed training content – Use creative talents to design and develop high-quality interactive online classes and webinars – Initiated and integrated new concepts to ensure representatives remained compliant while selling – Ensure standards of practice were followed in accordance with federal, state and local regulations
Sharon Dawson, Director, Communications and External Relations | SWOOP Analytics | Bayview, New South Wales, Australia | Corporate Communications | Industry: Information Technology Software Background and Experience: Sharon Dawson is SWOOP’s Director, Communications & External Relationships. She is experienced in media and communications, having spent more than a decade working for Australian Associated Press (AAP) in the Sydney, Canberra and London bureaux. Sharon has covered Olympic and Commonwealth Games, worked in the Australian federal press gallery, reported on Australian federal elections and been a sports correspondent for many years. Sharon joined the SWOOP team in 2017 as it expanded into the US. Sharon holds a Bachelor of Arts (Communication Studies) from The University of Newcastle.
Sophie Cullen, Editor | Honeycombers | Hong Kong, Hong Kong Island, Hong Kong | Creative | Industry: Media & Entertainment Background and Experience: With over ten years of working in the media business, I was grateful to receive your request to be a judge on this panel. I’ve lived in Asia for the last 12 years, and find inspiration for much of my writing from the technological and business advances of the area. Having worked as and Editor and Writer for many years, most recently I have launched Honeycombers, an Asian lifestyle media brand, in Hong Kong. With experience developing and growing a start-up from infancy to a successful business, I think I’d be a great addition to these awards.
Sean Davidson, Head of Marketing & Communications, Asia Pacific | Tata Consultancy Services | SINGAPORE, State, Singapore | Marketing | Industry: Information Technology Services Background and Experience: Sean oversees awareness, demand generation, and sales enablement programs for TCS Asia Pacific, one of the fastest growing regions at the 424,000, $20 billion revenue, $100 billion-valued company. A dual Canadian/Irish national and permanent resident of Singapore, he has 25 years of experience working in Asia Pacific and Silicon Valley in management roles with market-leading technology firms including Symantec, CA Technologies, VIA Technologies, and Fortinet. In addition to his focus on technology marketing and communications, Sean leads TCS’ running sponsorship program in Asia Pacific, and has developed partnerships with Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon, the Australian Running Festival (Canberra), and other races. He was named to the PRweek Global Powerbook in 2015, 1016. Sean is an avid guitar and ice hockey player and serves on the executive committee of the Singapore Ice Hockey Association. He holds an Executive MBA from Ivey, Western University and Bachelor of Applied Science from Simona Fraser University.
Valérie Marchand Battard, Head of Corporate Communication | WFS | Paris, Paris, France | Corporate Communications | Industry: Automotive, Transportation, Storage, and Logistics Background and Experience: I am responsible for WFS Group’s communication strategy, both to its global customers and the company’s 27,000 international employees, and all aspects of brand management. I was promoted to my current role in 2007, based at WFS’ global headquarters in Paris. As Head of Corporate Communication, I lead a team than manages media relations, the Group’s online presence and social media channels, participation in worldwide industry events, and bespoke customer communications and events. I joined WFS in 2002 as Administration & internal event Manager for the international division. Earlier in my career, after two years working in the travel industry in New York, I spent two years as Event Manager with the Marriott Group.
Jason Kraus, CEO | Prepare 4 VC, LLC | BOSTON, Massachusetts, United States | Management | Industry: Consulting Background and Experience: Prepare 4 VC was founded by Jason Kraus in order to help startups raise capital from the investor’s perspective. Jason Kraus holds a MSc in Management in Entrepreneurial Leadership from Babson College and a BA in Economics and Math from Colgate University. Prior to starting Prepare 4 VC, he worked as an associate for the venture arm of a small a family office focusing on early stage venture capital, and as a screening committee member for the Boston Harbor Angels. Jason is actively involved in the investment community through his roles at Equity Venture Partners and the EQx Fund, and as a member of the Boston Harbor Angels. He leads the Boston Chapter of one of the largest Startup Networking organizations, StartupGrind and was recently voted one of the Most Influential Entrepreneurs of 2018.
Ali Mirza, President | Rose Garden Consulting | Atlanta, Georgia, United States | Management | Industry: Consulting Background and Experience: Ali is the founder and president of Rose Garden Consulting, a contemporary sales process firm, Co-Founder of WMC, a beta stage SaaS platform, Mentor at Propellant Labs, Host of For The Close Podcast and an Adjunct Professor at General Assembly. In addition to that, Ali is a renowned speaker and an author, getting ready to publish his second book with Co-Author Aaron Ross, a follow up to the best-seller Predictable Revenue; titled Predictable Closing. Since 2008, Ali has personally closed over $200 Million in sales and won numerous awards from his insurance days to his time with his clients and is a 3x MHBA Gold award recipient, Sales Pop! Blogger of the year in 2016, and Atlanta Braves App Challenge 2016 to name a few. However, that pales in comparison to the privilege it has been to help his clients. Many of Ali’s clients have been able to achieve the Inc. 500, Inc. 5000 and Forbes Best lists. As well, Ali has helped numerous companies raise Series A and Series B rounds of investments.
Pallavi Pate, Sr Program Business Analyst | Karma Auto llc | IRVINE, California, United States | Product Development | Industry: Automotive, Transportation, Storage, and Logistics Background and Experience: Pallavi Patil, an accomplished MBA with deep Business Analysis experience for several major international and Indian companies , lead long-term development programs , technical proposals , treatment to complete a turn-key system capturing all costs. She has strong background in enterprise-wide programs to analyze key performance metrics (Eventually be able to provide) of highly competitive technical process proposals and associated cost roll-up . In the past , Pallavi served as Lead of Business Analysis & Development since 2002 , to support the issue strategy prioritization and development process , inquiries aligned with issues, bench-marking and sharing lessons ,product assortment differentiation, process competitiveness, cost competitiveness using analytical techniques and tools (Six Sigma, 8D, etc.) and Prepare cost proposals utilizing elements of cost provided by Operations, QA, Purchasing,Logistic Engineering, and Finance.Her current role is following a project management lifecycle and apply the appropriate action plan methodology (SD Action Plan, Agile, Phase Gate, DMAIC). Outside of work , I am an Alumini mentor for MBA students and have spoken on multiple panel at university events
Bharath Ram Srinivasan, Head of Demand Platforms | Hewlett Packard Enterprise | San Jose, California, United States | Marketing | Industry: Information Technology Hardware Background and Experience: Bharath Ram Srinivasan is a Marketing Professional and Technologist with over 15 years of experience building and scaling companies from start-up to IPO and beyond. He is currently responsible for modernizing and building the marketing platforms and products at Hewlett Packard Enterprise and driving revenue digitally. Previously, he ran marketing operations and analytics at Nimble Storage. He is a speaker at global marketing conferences such as Marketing Nation Summit and MarTech. In his spare time he advises local start-ups in building their marketing engine. Bharath holds an M.B.A. from Kelley School of Business in Bloomington, Indiana and a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from BITS Pilani, India.
Sachin Patil, Lead CAE R&D Technical Specialist | Karma Auto LLc | Irvine, California, United States | Product Development | Industry: Automotive, Transportation, Storage, and Logistics Background and Experience: Sachin Patil’s background is predominantly in Mechanical/ Aerospace / Automotive Engineering but he has an obsessive interest in pretty much everything. After completing Bachelor of Engineering in 1996 Sachin followed Wichita Kansas, where he attended the Wichita State University for Higher Studies in Engineering. He currently writes for a living, on a broad variety of subjects, ranging from Applied Mechanics, automotive safety, Electronic Packaging for battery system to renewable energy. Sachin, born in 1973, has over 22 years applied experience in field of Electronic packaging Design, Composite Layup analysis , Mechanical Design and FEA various software developments, IoT Technology to Drive the Automotive Industry. He has wide-ranging experience with autonomous vehicle development, vehicle testing, Diverse skillset including Simulation ,FEA analysis, Design, Advanced Manufacturing Process and Materials, Prototype Building, Verification and hom*ologation, working on advanced technologies in automotive such as Rear-mounted radar ,etc. He is currently Lead CAE R & D Technical Specialist, Karma Automotive LLC, Irvine, California, USA.Currently working on few project in composites, sled test validation, constitutive material modelling and, crashworthiness studies for EV Battery Pack and occupant dynamics analysis.
Alysia Silberg, GP | Street Global | London, London, United Kingdom | Finance | Industry: Others… Background and Experience: Alysia Silberg is a seed stage technology investor working with startups addressing global challenges via beneficial AI, analytics, business automation, financial technology, health technology, life sciences, robotics and secure infrastructure. Her strategy is to invest in strong, performance-driven companies addressing global challenges. Her technique is to bridge Silicon Valley, Europe and Emerging Markets with knowhow, capital and powerful relationships. Alysia’s work also combines investing with public policy advocacy and public educational media. Alysia advises European, African and Emerging Markets governments on startup ecosystem development, accessing leading-edge technology for economic development, inclusive and diversified entrepreneurship, women’s empowerment and trade at the highest levels. Alysia is a multi-industry, self-made entrepreneur, qualified investment manager, statistician & data scientist. She founded data marketing company, Digital by Design, voice analytics company, Acceleforce, and built the product and technology platform for Xexec, a leading global employee benefits platform. Alysia is the founder and host of the Global Online FiresideChat, a weekly online radio show for entrepreneurs and investors that reaches entrepreneurs and global leaders in emerging and developed markets. Topics include AI, blockchain, emerging technologies and the fundamentals of entrepreneurship. A frequent media presence, speaker, author and social advocate, She has +100,000 supporters in 65 Countries.
Tom Flynn, Managing Director | Izaros Consulting | San Jose, California, United States | Marketing | Industry: Consulting Background and Experience: Tom Flynn is an accomplished and well-rounded B2B marketing and sales leader with 15+ years experience in multiple high-growth enterprise software and SaaS businesses. He currently serves as the VP of Marketing at SpendMend, the fastest growing software and technology provider in the Healthcare Industry. Prior to SpendMend Tom co-founded Lavante Inc. where her served as the CMO until finally selling the firm to PRGX Global in 2016. Tom also Served as President and CEO of Connect Address before selling the firm in 2014. Tom is an active evangelist on technology and people management, a lead gen expert, a frequent speaker at industry events, a content machine and a published author on subjects ranging from workplace leadership, e-commerce, supply chain management and technology. As a marketing leader, Tom makes companies look bigger and better than they are. As a sales leader, Tom has personally sold over 300 Fortune 1000 companies.
Vijay Verma, Senior Funding Expert | Dhara solutions GmbH | Graz, Graz, Austria | Business Development | Industry: Others… Background and Experience: EU Projects/ Tenders: 11 years of experience in proposal preparation, acquisition and project management (FP6, FP7, Horizin2020 and FP9). Austrian, Belgian, U.S.A. and other International Projects: 10years of experience in BelSpo, FFG, AWS, SFG, Indian Science Policy and several other industrial project acquisition and management. Eco-design: 4 years of experience ecodesign directive, involvement in Lot 15-20. Project Evaluation: 6 years Romanian Government, 2 years BelSpo, 4 years in EU(H2020)and 3 years in InterReg projects evaluation. Business Incubation: 2 year Trainings: Several years of designing training material, giving trainings and organizing trainings on several topics(SME-Phase 1&2, Financial Planning, Funding Roadmap, Business Model, LCA etc)
Sanjay Jha, Executive Director | Dale Carnegie India | Mumbai, Maharashtra, India | Management | Industry: Education and Training Background and Experience: Sanjay Jha is the Executive Director of the world-famous Dale Carnegie operations in India. Mr. Jha is also the National Spokesperson of the Indian National Congress Party. He is the President of All India Professionals Congress, Maharashtra. Sanjay has been a TEDx Speaker and has addressed enlightened audiences at Dell, Columbia Business School (New York), ICICI Pru, IBM, University of California (Los Angeles), Axis Bank, Goldman Sachs, Microsoft etc. He is also a regular contributor to the Huffington Post, National Herald and the Daily O of the India Today Group. He has founded one of the world’s leading internet portals called CricketNext.Com. Prior to starting Dale Carnegie, Sanjay worked with ITC Threadneedle Asset Management (part of BAT plc, UK), Alliance Capital (New York, USA), Bank of America and ANZ Grindlays Bank. Jha completed his MBA from XLRI, Jamshedpur and his Master’s in Economics from Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics, University of Pune. He graduated with distinction in Economics from Fergusson College, Pune. Jha has recently authored a book on leadership called The Superstar Syndrome (The Making Of A Champion), co-authored with Dr. Myra White, who is a Professor at the Harvard Medical School.
Anupama Menon, Senior Manager Project Program Management | Dell Technologies Ltd. | Bangalore, Karnataka, India | Support | Industry: Information Technology Services Background and Experience: Anupama Menon, currently working as Sr. Manager, Project Program Manager in Dell Technologies joined the company around 18 years ago. The current role involves leading a Global team of technical Level3 Experts who oversee product related escalations from Tech support, launching New Products, enhancing system and process capability to advising the business on risk mitigation and solutions. She has successfully represented business interests with various upstream teams and established strong relations across, which is very necessary for obvious reasons. Her cross-functional business acumen and domain expertise make her the perfect leader for the role. Her broad-spectrum portfolio includes multiple facets like Business Process Improvisation, Service Delivery, Operations Management, ITIL, and Customer Relationship Management (CRM). Additional feathers in her star-studded cap comprise transformational foresight, technologically innovative Solutioning coupled with impeccable Executive Presentation skills and much more. Recently she has been accredited with the statute of a Judge in the Industry leading Stevie awards forum and has won “Transforming Ordinary to Extraordinary: The Above & Beyond’ for Consumer Premium Support organization @vmwareVthrive2019 In a nutshell, her holistic knowledge and fertile industry insight makes her the go to person for everybody including numerous leaders for consultation on Envisioning and Solutioning
Nehal Bharodia, Principal Analytical Consultant | SAS Institute Inc. | Cary, North Carolina, United States | Information Technology | Industry: Accounting, Banking, Financial, and Insurance Background and Experience: Nehal specializes in delivering risk business consulting and technology for Market Risk, Credit Risk and ALM. He is a seasoned professional with deep expertise in CECL/IFRS9, and Stress Test (CCAR/DFST). He has been in the industry for 10+ years serving various financial institutions delivering business expertise and end to end risk architecture for large scale risk and finance transformations. Nehal meets with executives, and subject matter experts with various financial institutions and discuss solving business problems and improving efficiencies in risk and finance management. He also works with Big 4 consulting firms and technology companies to discuss the best practices with frequently changing regulatory and technology environments. Nehal is hands on with developing the risk and finance systems with qualitative and quantitative background. He has demonstrated leadership and excellence in solving risk and finance problems in a cost effective way yet easy to adopt changes. Specialties: Market Risk, Credit Risk, ALM, CECL, Stress Test, Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence
Rohan Shende, Manager Advisory Services | EY | Iselin, New Jersey, United States | Management | Industry: Consulting Background and Experience: Rohan has 15 years of diverse experience in Strategy Consulting, Technology Transformation, Outsourcing, Vendor Management, Shared Services, Global Business Services (GBS), Process Improvement, and Project Management. Rohan has supported many Life Sciences & Pharma clients in their IT Infrastructure and ADM outsourcing deals worth $1billion in Total Contract Value. Rohan has assisted High Tech and Consumer Market clients in their IT and Finance Shared Services transformations. He has also developed Market Entry Strategies for Automotive & TMT clients.
Lee Rech, President | LBR Communications Inc. | Salt Lake City, Utah, United States | Corporate Communications | Industry: Advertising, Marketing, & Public Relations Background and Experience: Lee founded LBR Communications in 1996 and is responsible for the overall strategic direction, growth, and management of the company. Building on her more than 20 years of marketing/public relations, professional documentation, and technical writing experience, Lee created LBR Communications to provide her business, non-profit and political clients with a greater value proposition for their communications and development needs than they could derive from a larger, less customer service-focused agency. Her results-oriented drive and affable nature ensure every LBR client achieves their PR and development objectives, no matter the desired result.
Merrill Freund, EVP and GM | BOCA Communications | San Francisco, California, United States | Public Relations | Industry: Information Technology Software Background and Experience: Merrill Freund has an enviable track record as an agency executive and deep experience working with technology innovators . His career is marked by a number of professional successes, including senior roles at top PR and communications firms. Prior to BOCA Communications, he served as managing director at ICR, a strategic communications and advisory firm, where he ran the West Coast technology PR practice. Prior to ICR, Merrill spent 15 years with Schwartz Communications, a leading independent technology PR agency. There, he served as senior vice president before taking the role as managing director of the agency’s San Francisco office. He received his B.S. in Political Science from Union College and his M.S. in Telecommunications from the University of Colorado.
Naini Roy Choudhury Thakkar, Vice President, Marketing & Communications | Teleperformance Digital Integrated Business Services | Mumbai, Maharashtra, India | Marketing | Industry: Business Products and Services Background and Experience: Naini Roy Choudhury Thakkar is a Business Marketing & Communications specialist currently working with Euronext listed Teleperformance. She has worked for Times Now , the Tata Group, and Blackstone owned co -Intelenet Global Services. She has successfully led over 5 global M&A led communication mandates in the past decade and is passionate about Marketing being a pivotal part of organisational growth. She was awarded as the Best Communication professional in the Asia Pac region by CMO Asia and also named in the Prestigious World Woman Congress Influencers list. In her free time she is known to juxtapose Bollywood and the Corporate world. She is based in Mumbai and married to Milan Thakkar , the CEO of Walplast
Shriram Padale, Associate Partner – CEO’s Team | MarketsandMarkets™ | Pune, Maharashtra, India | Management | Industry: Consulting Background and Experience: Shriram received his M.B.A. (Finance and Strategy) from prestigious Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Visakhapatnam – which is one of the Institutes of National Importance in India. Before M.B.A., he completed Engineering in Electronics and Telecommunications field from University of Pune also known as the ‘Oxford of the East’. Shriram is presently working in Founder’s Strategy Team at MarketsandMarkets™ Research Private Ltd. known as the world’s largest revenue impact organization which is presently serving over 7500 organizations including 80% of Fortune 2000. Shriram’s tasks are focused on various strategic organizational initiatives involving management strategy, business administration, project management, performance management, brand management etc. He is directly working with CEO & other CXOs of organization on tasks involving various global teams of organization. Shriram also holds a strong consulting experience in major government projects, financial sector and scientific research. Recently, he performed prestigious role of Honorary Judge at the 2019 International Business Stevie Awards, Vienna – Austria.
Vince Dinga, PR Manager | TNW | Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands | Public Relations | Industry: Media & Entertainment Background and Experience: The best compliment I can receive for my work is when nobody knows I was responsible for it. And, if it’s really good, you’ll never even know it was PR. With over 8 years in the communications trade, as part of agencies, startups, or brands, my work included PR & reputation management, journalism, blogging, social media management, copywriting, marketing, and event production. Currently in charge of PR for TNW (The Next Web).
Shreekanta Das, Technologist | VMware INC | Palo Alto, California, United States | Information Technology | Industry: Cloud Computing/SaaS/Internet Background and Experience: Shree Das has 17 years of experience in Cloud, Hyper Converged Infrastructure, IoT, Edge Computing, Data center Virtualization, Systems/storage solutions and design, consulting and implementation with an exceptional history of leading the turnaround of under-performing IT projects and strategies. He has managed infrastructure hosting services and large multi site data centers projects globally. He has hands on in product design/architect, delivery and also has the advisory skills and expertise to shape multiple products and projects. He has authored various technical white papers related to Cloud, HCI, Multi-Tenancy, SD-WAN, Converged Infrastructure and VDI. He has also presented his work in various conferences like VMworld, EMC world, Dell Technology World etc. He holds a Master’s degree in Information Systems from University Of San Francisco. Currently he is working as a Technologist, Architect in VMware, Inc. Shree’s focus is on the Software-Defined Data Center, Cloud, Hyper-converged Infrastructure, IoT, HPC and other emerging technologies.
Vlad Krishtop, Founder and CEO | Konstruktor Service | Redwood City, California, United States | Operations | Industry: Information Technology Services Background and Experience: Vlad Krishtop is a successful serial entrepreneur and investor based in Silicon Valley. He is a founder and CEO of the conglomerate “Konstruktor”, which includes an investment company “Second Working District”, IT company ”Konstruktor Service”, and a number of startups that focus on Space, AI, AR, FinTech, Mobile, etc. Krishtop earned his first $1M by the age 21. He is a self-made businessman and he has never used outside capital for any of his projects.
Hemanth Kolla, Sr Analyst | Qtirlabs | Sugar Land, Texas, United States | Information Technology | Industry: Energy & Utilities Background and Experience: • Strong experience in Database Development, Administration, Enhancement and Implementation. Strong in Database Design and Development of Relational / Multi-Dimensional Schemas for Data Warehouses databases. • Sound understanding of TietoEnator Energy Components (EC) Production, Transport modules Version 8.2, 9.3 9.4 10.x. and 11.x • Involved in development, Data Modeling, Data Migration, enhancement, implementation, maintenance and support of applications developed under ORACLE (10g/9i/8i/8.0). • Extensively worked with ETL tool Oracle warehouse builder(OWB) • Solid understanding and experience in Oracle workflow, debugging and performance tuning. • Deep knowledge of SQL Server 2005, SSRS and SSIS packages. • Experience in configuring objects and assets in Energy Components. • Experience in Application Development, Data Modeling, Data Migration, Data Conversion, and Interface. • Experience in implementing different options in Oracle like Parallel Query, Partitioning etc. • Expertise in writing/ debugging of Stored Procedures and Database Triggers. • Exposure to high level design and building efficient databases. Interacted directly with developers and end clients for translating, customizing and enhancing application for achieving maximum database throughput. • Strong Analytical, Organizational, Inter-personal and Communication Skills. • Experience in several business domains including Banking, Health Care, Oil and Gas.
Mansi Mohan, senior software engineer2 | commvault inc | santa clara, California, United States | Product Development | Industry: Engineering and Technology Background and Experience: Experienced Software Developer with 8+ year’s multi-lingual programming experiences for different domains like finance, marketing, storage, machine learning, block chain, research and innovation. At current company Commvault Systems, working as senior engineer for encryption, and licensing code in CLR for linux compatibility, data ingestion, data pipeline, infrastructure for machine learning, full stack development. At TCS won Spot Award for hackathon for building mobile application for banking domain https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/embed_code/key/FZzNquqeFRJP7w Worked for banking clients and received appreciation for technical tasks: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/embed_code/key/tDMXGVrQAuWkjY Won best paper Nomination Award among 240 applications for international conference research presentation. Performed presentation as well. Completed Masters from Santa Clara University in California,USA with computer science specialization. During undergrad bachelors had a focus on computation and communication. I am an active contributor to Open Source technologies, write proposals and perform development for decentralized financial services rolling into block chain and sister chain. I have Full stack development experience across frontend, backend (CORE). This year I was a mentor at Judge at Boston-hackathon, USA and also invited as honorary guest speaker for DEVCON in Shanghai, China. I have computing and communications related 10+ research papers that are at international level (IEEE,Springers, IJCA,IJGTI,IJMOT ) and national level. Google scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=RXRTnU8AAAAJ
Makrant Iyengar, Engineer 6 | Align Technology | san jose, California, United States | Information Technology | Industry: Information Technology Software Background and Experience: Seasoned bay area engineer with around 10 years in information technology related development for different domains like sales, finance, marketing, healthcare and research. At current company Invisalign Technology, working as experienced engineer for critical product development across multiple domains involving different applications and databases. Familiar with application development on Salesforce, Business Intelligence (data pipeline via ETL ie extract transform, load) and internal client system using Java and Python frameworks. Partner with Sales Analytic users to build tool, used for tracking forecast versus actuals, for key metrics (CCA, Net Receipt, and Revenue) on daily basis that impacted commission payouts Provide solutions to incentivize customers based on behaviors and rules Interface with multiple applications including Salesforce, SAP-ECC, Customer Portal, Reporting Worked with multiple fortune 500 clients and solve complex business technology problems Led a team for reconciling GL, SubLedger and Hyperion Consolidation (Hyperion FinancialManagement, HFM) obtained from different financial systems across multiple legal entities and systems (Oracle 11i, Oracle r12 and others) I have national and international research level papers available via google scholar at https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=1aIobKwAAAAJ&view_op=list_works&sortby=title&gmla=AJsN-F4Gsvr9FeSE55Jl0rTL5CTqJod6X68nfGhDNcyEszturyz6kW3p4MTRx87sl_dE14t9XKu8ZSZEDIYqBz6jiWAsRcK6jDJjMcS7OOTd_6rq2KMOaHA&sciund=13729109441179459599 I have completed my Masters in Information Management from Syracuse University with Data Science specialization. My undergrad is Bachelors in Information Technology from Mumbai University.
Anita Damico, CEO | Code Dx, Inc. | Northport, New York, United States | Management | Industry: Security Software Background and Experience: Anita D’Amico, Ph.D. is CEO of Code Dx, Inc., a leading provider of application security management solutions. She started down the cyber security path over 25 years ago, leading Northrop Grumman’s first Information Warfare team. Her roots are in experimental psychology and human factors, and she has applied that expertise to enhance human performance in cyber security. She has published several articles on the results of her research on cyber security decision processes, security visualizations, and the mission impact of cyber attacks. For the past eight years she has focused increasingly on technologies that make it easier to build secure software applications and discover vulnerabilities in software applications. A 2016 Forbes article named Anita as one of “five cool women in security” who serve as role models for young women entering the field. More recently, Anita was named as one of “100 Fascinating Females Fighting Cybercrime” in the 2019 book “Women Know Cyber.”
Laura D’Anna, Senior Product Manager | iPipeline | Salt Lake City, Utah, United States | Product Development | Industry: Information Technology Software Background and Experience: A senior product manager for software applications in insurance, financial services and law enforcement for over 20 years, most recently with the Salesforce(r) AppExchange partner ecosystem, Laura is known for bringing innovative products to market that transform traditional user experiences into next generation digital experiences. She started her career as a software engineer with a BS CS from University of Michigan. Laura resides in Park City, UT, choosing it as her home for the greatest snow on Earth.
Elizabeth Dodson, Cofounder | http://www.homezada.com | El Dorado Hills, California, United States | Business Development | Industry: Information Technology Software Background and Experience: Elizabeth Dodson is Co-Founder of HomeZada, an online and mobile home management portal that helps homeowners manage their largest asset to save time and money and reduce stress while also enabling HomeZada partners to differentiate their business and build long term client loyalty in today’s competitive market. Elizabeth has over 20 years of technology experience focusing on B2B and B2C platforms. Prior to HomeZada, she joined Meridian Systems and assisted in the growth of this young startup. As the Director of Business Development for Meridian Systems, she oversaw partner relationships, programs and sales. Today, Elizabeth uses the skills she gained in her career to lead the growth of HomeZada as a top homeownership and customer engagement platform. She holds a BS in Business from Stevenson University and her MBA from Loyola University of Maryland. With education comes opportunity. Beth’s commitment to education continues as she is an active mentor in programs offered by Stevenson, Loyola and American Corporate Partners. Beth also holds an advisory board seat with College Track Sacramento to provide college education opportunities to an underserved market.
Brett Dunst, VP, Corporate Communications | DreamHost | Brea, California, United States | Corporate Communications | Industry: Information Technology Services Background and Experience: A passionate communications strategist and fierce branding advocate, Brett Dunst believes that a brand’s unique voice and tone can often be its most valuable differentiator in a crowded marketplace. Having managed marketing, corporate communications, press/analyst relations, and more at DreamHost for nearly two decades, Brett is passionate about brand storytelling. Brett currently serves as Vice President of Corporate Communications at DreamHost where he oversees communication strategy and public policy.
Lauren Presti, Public Relations Manager | SAIC | Reston, Virginia, United States | Public Relations | Industry: Information Technology Services Background and Experience: I am a strategic communicator, writer, and leader. With nearly 15 years of experience in communications and journalism, including eight years in defense contracting, I possess advanced writing skills in marketing and public relations as well as critical problem-solving skills derived from high-profile, high-intensity situations. I have coached influential leaders within the private sector helping them refine their messaging to drive desired outcomes. Experienced in crisis communications, public speaking, executive communications, investor relations communications, press conferences, and television/radio/print interviews as the spokesperson of a $6.5 billion company. Primary public affairs and media contact for SAIC. Recently completed an M.B.A. with 24 credit hours and three immersive learning modules in leadership, management, and business strategy, including data analytics and an international study-abroad experience in Beijing and Shanghai, China. Project management skills with the ability to manage multiple, complex projects on a daily basis, including trend analysis and performance management. Enjoys storytelling through writing and editing features, short stories, biographies, essays, editorial pieces, press releases, research reports, creative print/radio ad copy, social media, video scripts, speeches, whitepapers, and award submissions. Well versed in copyediting, transcription/editing of interviews, and proofreading. Skilled at creating concise, compelling messaging for marketing and PR copy.
Michael Blakey, Managing Partner | Cocoon Capital | Singapore, n/a, Singapore | Management | Industry: Others… Background and Experience: Since becoming an angel investor in 2000 through Avonmore Developments which he co-founded with his brother, Michael has invested in over 30 companies in the UK and achieved 9 successful exits. He has also invested in 8 early stage companies in Southeast Asia including Anchanto, Cricket One and Nugit under the name of Cub Capital since 2013. Most recently, Michael co-founded Cocoon Capital, an early stage fund, which is looking to invest in companies throughout SE Asia. To date Cocoon has invested in over 14 companies including Hapz, See-Mode and Sensorflow. During Michael’s career he’s been named ‘UK Angel Investor of the Year 2015’ by the UK Business Angel Association, selected as one of the ‘Maserati 100’ and voted by AngelsNews into the list of ‘Business Angels You Should Know’. These accolades were not attributed to Michael only in recognition of his successful investments, but for the relentless support he gives to the founding and management teams of the companies he invests in as well as his generous contributions over the years towards building the startup and investor ecosystem in the UK.
Dorothy Paul, Consultant – Corporate Communications | GVK BIO | Hyderabad, Andra Pradesh, India | Corporate Communications | Industry: Healthcare, Pharmaceuticals, Biotech, Health Products & Services Background and Experience: My role at various organizations I have worked for include: – Corporate Marketing o Brand Development, management and upkeep o Integrative communication linking stakeholders to the organization to transmit coherence, credibility and ethics o Public Relations- Managing and orchestrating all internal and external communications aimed at creating favourable point of view among stakeholders – Aligning marketing with the corporate business strategy o What markets to compete in, what segments to target, what entry mode and marketing strategy to adopt, which partners to strategically ally with and how to use PR to build reputation and credibility – Connect the organization with the customer/ stakeholder o Market Research study on § Customer – Relationship assessment, Lost Customer assessment, Customer feedback Report § Brand – Awareness / Recall/ Mindshare/ Equity § Employee – Satisfaction, Relationship and Retention factors § Channel / Partner satisfaction Study – Creating a Customer Centric organization o Work on A Customer Relationship o Measures to build in a customer centric organization – Product / service/ people / policies /culture /
Rosemary Tambini, Director of Multimedia Marketing | Makers Nutrition | Hauppauge, New York, United States | Marketing | Industry: Healthcare, Pharmaceuticals, Biotech, Health Products & Services Background and Experience: My name is Rosemary Tambini and I am the Director of Multimedia Marketing for Makers Nutrition. Makers Nutrition, an Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Company in America, Inc. Best Workplace, Grand Stevie® and People’s Choice Stevie® Award winner for Favorite Companies, is a groundbreaking provider for dietary supplement companies. Specializing in capsules, tablets, powders and softgels, Makers Nutrition provides a full-service option for all contract manufacturing, graphic design, packaging and fulfillment needs. With just over two years experience at Makers Nutrition, I have learned first hand what it takes to be recognized by such a prestigious awards program such as the Golden Bridge Business and Innovation Awards. With judges’ affirmative comments about Makers Nutrition’s quick growth and work ethic, and further inquiries regarding our track record, I have molded our award-winning entries to shine. This knowledge has prepared me well to judge on behalf of Makers Nutrition, guiding other companies to follow in our successful footsteps in a highly-competitive awards program. Serving as a judge would allow me to grow not only as a representative for Makers Nutrition’s exemplary business model, but for other companies to continue growing and succeeding as we have done over the years.
Ryann Zeller, Channel Account Manager | Silver Peak | Arlington, Texas, United States | Business Development | Industry: Information Technology Software Background and Experience: 18+ years of delivering results in sales, marketing, and coaching roles for the academic, legal, and IT sectors. Known for exceeding expectations, increasing visibility, and handling complex logistics to support both business and academic organizations. Decisive leader highly regarded for maximizing the success of sales, marketing, and business development campaigns while maintaining an uncompromising focus on high-quality standards. Recognized for setting strategic program priorities utilizing incomparable organizational, team building, and planning skills. Exceptional academic qualifications, including a Master of Science in Liberal Arts from Texas Christian University.
Valerie Touze, Co-founder and COO | EDOKI ACADEMY | PARIS, Paris, France | Business Development | Industry: Education and Training Background and Experience: Valérie has an international background: she grew up in Canada where she studied Business, did her Masters degree in Lyon, France and started her career in the UK where she worked as a Management Consultant for a few years. After training to become a Montessori teacher; she taught in an international Montessori school for 8 years and in 2012 she co-founded Edoki Academy, an award-winning educational app publisher where she currently holds the role of COO.
Brenda Siri, Head of Talent Acquisition | Securus Technologies, Inc. | Carrollton, Texas, United States | Human Resources | Industry: Information Technology Services Background and Experience: Brenda Siri is the Head of Talent Acquisition for Securus Technologies, Inc. in Dallas, Texas. She has over 15 years’ experience in recruiting and the HR industry. Brenda is a past recipient of the Gold Pillar World Awards Recruiting/Talent Acquisition Professional of the Year. Brenda’s team of recruiters, sourcers, and coordinators have been responsible for filling over 750 open positions this year, due to rapid growth within their organization. Brenda is very proactive in mentoring her team and ensuring that all compliance hiring standards are met. She is highly collaborative and values others’ opinions. Her collaborative spirit is focused on team cohesion, dynamics, and interpersonal relationships. However, with a strong background in compliance, Brenda ensures that AAP, EEO, and OFCCP standards are highly incorporated into her team’s process.
Natalie Homer, Global Corporate Communications Lead | Emarsys | London, London, United Kingdom | Public Relations | Industry: Information Technology Services Background and Experience: A B2B IT/Tech and corporate communications professional with over 20 years experience creating cultures aligned to brand promises. A natural leader, clear strategic thinker with creative flair, I have revitalised brands, launched companies, products & services, improved and protected corporate reputations, developed global/pan-EU campaigns and overseen media planning for key corporate industry events. Consistently delivering effective integrated communications programmes by harnessing key internal/external stakeholder engagement to drive, support business goals and growth on a national and international basis. A trained journalist, I speak French and Spanish. Specialisms: Strategy, campaign development, annual planning, client services, counsel, B2B PR, media, professional, influencer & analyst relations, corporate communications, people and change management, reputation, issues, perception, president communications, events, conferences and copywriting. I’m bi-lingual English – Spanish with conversational French. I have a degree in European Studies from Queen Mary College, London University and a post-grad diploma in Sub-Editing and Design from The London School of Journalism. I’m also a Parent Governor at a North London school where I sit on the Quality Assurance committee.
Sarah Pazzano, Operations Manager | The Leadership Agency | Toronto, Ontario, Canada | Operations | Industry: Others… Background and Experience: Sarah Pazzano is Operations Manager at The Leadership Agency, recruitment partner of choice for North American startups. The Leadership Agency helps build the most impressive companies of our generation, all while disrupting the status quo. With a focus on sales and executive recruitment, The Leadership Agency works exclusively with startups to find top talent. As Operations Manager, Sarah wears many hats. From client experience, to marketing, to internal operations, Sarah ensures all processes run smoothly, by applying her creativity and problem solving skills and experience.
Hemant Garg, Executive Director, Mobile Engineering | JPMorgan Chase | San Francisco, California, United States | Information Technology | Industry: Accounting, Banking, Financial, and Insurance Background and Experience: Hemant Garg is mobile engineering leader with over 16 years of experience working at startups and big companies. He has extensive experience in the mobile application development, architecture, application security and cloud services. He has played pivotal role in many prestigious products like Motorola’s first Android device, Evernote’s award-winning Android app, First Data payment solutions and Chase’s Android app. His careers spans from individual contributor to leading engineering teams. His product knowledge is very wide from Social media, Banking, Note-sharing, Payments and Fintech. His work is applauded by Google and other tech companies. From time to time he was chosen as early adopter of new experimental technology to provide feedback. In his current role as Executive Director, Mobile Engineering Lead, Mr. Hemant Garg is responsible for leading the digital mobile initiatives and contributing to the overall direction and delivery of mobile banking innovations at JPMorgan Chase. He leads the architecture solutions and coding practices for Chase mobile applications. Additionally, he works to create innovative solutions within mobile and digital technology. Mr Garg also mentors the mobile engineering team, driving culture and provide thought leadership to the technologists as they develop mobile applications.
Marina Tognetti, Founder/ CEO | mYngle | Amsterdam, Holland, Netherlands | Management | Industry: Information Technology Services Background and Experience: Marina Tognetti is founder and CEO of mYngle.com. Originally from Italy, Marina has lived and worked in different countries and speaks Italian, English, Dutch, French, Spanish and a bit of Mandarin. Marina holds an MBA from INSEAD in Fontainebleau (France). After 18 year of successful corporate career at Procter & Gamble, Philips, BHP Billiton, Sara Lee, The Boston Consulting Group and eBay, she decided to become an entrepreneur and started mYngle.com. mYngle is a pioneer in live online language education and has become a significant player in its segment. mYngle offers customized language training programs through video conferencing in 45 different languages to learners located anywhere in the world. Marina is regularly presenting at conferences on topics of women leadership, entrepreneurship and innovation. She received many international awards and recognitions for her contribution as a woman in technology: 50 most inspiring women tech leaders in Europe, WEF Iconic Women Creating a Better World for All, 50 most inspiring women in Dutch technology sector and many more.
Jessica Vess, Director of College Communications | Austin Community College District | Austin, Texas, United States | Corporate Communications | Industry: Education and Training Background and Experience: Learning is one of my greatest passions. I seek lessons in daily interactions, from casual conversations at the grocery store to news articles with my morning coffee and podcasts during my commute. I started my professional career in broadcast journalism as a news anchor and reporter in Victoria, Texas. After several years, I moved to Austin where I worked as a reporter and anchor at KVUE News. I was invited to serve on the board of the American Lung Association (ALA) and volunteered with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and Honor Flight Austin, providing strategic public relations consultation. My transition to a career in higher education came naturally. I joined the Austin Community College District in 2014 where I currently serve as Director of College Communications. I am responsible for developing, directing, and monitoring the implementation of the college’s comprehensive internal and external communications strategies. In 2017, I was nominated and elected by my peers statewide to serve as the Regional Director for Central Texas of the Texas Association of Community College Marketers. In 2019, I was recognized with the ACC President’s Leadership Excellence Award and the national John & Suanne Roueche Excellence Award.
Arpit Verma, AVP- Marketing & Product | Eastern Light & Power Pvt Ltd | Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India | Marketing | Industry: Advertising, Marketing, & Public Relations Background and Experience: With 6+ years behind me in various roles across marketing/ sales/ products and business development, I have seen the digital market in India grow very closely. An Aerospace Engineer by education, I have worked across verticles including an agency background, news/ media publication, e-commerce and renewable energy. From a DAU of a couple of thousand to a couple of million, I have lived life both in a fast lane and developed some of the most successful products/ brands in India. Some of the brands I have worked with/ on/ for include: Gionee Mobiles, Citibank, Zee, Pricebaba, MYSUN, Samsung etc.
Moonmoon Chakraborty, Sr.Consultant ERP | Cognizant Technology Solutions | Chicago, Illinois, United States | Information Technology | Industry: Healthcare, Pharmaceuticals, Biotech, Health Products & Services Background and Experience: Moonmoon Chakraborty has more than 11 years of experience in professional services and dynamic consultants on the overall design, configuration, delivery of software, data solutions to meet customer requirements. She is also engaged in Data Management practice with a deep focus on Data Architecting, Data Modeling, Data Integration, Data Conversion, and Data Quality. She has experience working with different databases platforms such as Oracle, Teradata, PostgreSQL, DevOps and in AWS Cloud. Her passion is to interact with business teams, oversight and direction to project and technical team members in all stages of the implementation lifecycle and translating client desires into a solution. Moonmoon is based out of Chicago. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Sc & Engineering and Master Of Science in Information Technology. She is certified with many Oracle database certifications, Prince2 Foundation, and Practitioner, Agile Scrum Master, ITIL foundation and expert. She takes many initiatives at work, establishing strategic objectives, project plans, milestone and make a dramatic improvement in business while meeting the project objectives and deadlines.
Aimee Treasure, Head of Marketing | VHR | London, London, United Kingdom | Marketing | Industry: Business Products and Services Background and Experience: VHR is a global technical recruitment company servicing the Aerospace & Aviation, F1 & Automotive, Engineering & Defence and Marine industries across 45 countries. In my current role I lead a marketing team of 7. In the past year our achievements include: • Winning our business 15 Awards in 2018, including the Queen’s Award for Enterprise, and in March 2019 winning the Creative Marketing Award in the Online Recruitment Awards • Leading all marketing activities; managing and recruiting a team that doubled in size in one year • Generating 36 new clients in 2018, against the previous marketing average of 6 leads per year (an increase of 500%) • Running campaigns for large global airlines including Airbus, Etihad and FlyDubai. We spent only £22.57 on our most successful client campaign which generated an ROI of 80,495%. • Redesigning our website in-house and rebranding on a budget of £5K, which increased website traffic by 122% in 18 months • Implementing a new social media strategy that generated 296% more Facebook engagement than VHR’s most engaged competitor and grew our LinkedIn audience from 24,000 to 32,000 (33%) in 12 months.
Kiran Veigas, Program Director | https://www.happiestminds.com/ | Bengaluru, Karnataka, India | Marketing | Industry: Information Technology Services Background and Experience: Kiran Veigas is the Program Director and Head of Corporate Marketing at Happiest Minds Technologies. He has 18+ years of industry experience spanning various roles in Digital Marketing, Business Strategy, Business Development, Product Management and Product Development in IT/Telecom. He was awarded as the Digital Marketer of the Year -2017 by IAMAI and Moneycontrol.com; 100 Best Marketing Minds of India 2018 by Enterprise IT World. Kiran’s prior work experience include: L&T Infotech; where he has handled various business and technology roles during his 12+ yrs tenure and also incubated the Shared Marketing Services for the company. His educational qualifications include an Executive Management Program (GMITE – General Management for IT Executives) from IIM-Bangalore and a BE in Telecommunications Engineering from BMS College of Engineering. In his spare time, Kiran is an avid aquarist, budding guitarist and also has a keen interest in photography.
Derek Pando, International and Partner Marketing | Zoom | San Jose, California, United States | Marketing | Industry: Information Technology Software Background and Experience: Derek Pando leads Partner and International Marketing at Zoom. He has spent his career at high growth enterprise software companies including Salesforce and LinkedIn, where he helped launch LinkedIn Sales Navigator. He has held a variety of different marketing roles including analytics, marcomm and product marketing. He speaks Spanish fluently and can get by in Portuguese. If you a lot of time to kill, ask him about his vegetable garden.
Omar Sequera, Marketing Operations Manager | Paymotion | Victoria, British Columbia, Canada | Marketing | Industry: Accounting, Banking, Financial, and Insurance Background and Experience: I’m a technologist, traveller and humanist, interested in art, new technologies, alternative forms of management and consumer behaviour. Occasional speaker. Organizational behaviour is my passion. I’m obsessed with self management, #CompanyCulture, #marketing #automation and all things #tech. I’m an #UBI Believer, cofounder of @calibre_360 and writer at ElObrero.es among other things.
Sharon Ward, Director of Public and Media Relations | Pelican Products, Inc. | Torrance, California, United States | Public Relations | Industry: Manufacturing Background and Experience: I bring more than 25 years of branding and marketing experience to my position as Director of Public and Media Relations at Pelican Products, Inc. Currently, my main focus is around corporate communication and public relations initiatives on a global level. Responsibilities include creating visibility and recognition for the Pelican brand, collaborating with Pelican’s multiple marketing divisions, crisis communication, community engagement programs, market research, public relations and social media. Additionally, I play an integral role in aligning the company’s brand strengths with the CEO ‘s brand, who serves as a bridge with stakeholders to engage and gain interest in the business. Career highlights include a key role in the development and execution of the communication plans surrounding multiple acquisitions, namely, Pelican’s $200 million acquisition of our nearest case competitor Hardigg Industries. Over the years I have managed all aspects of Pelican’s global product launches including the debut of Pelican’s 7060 LED flashlight which was designed and manufactured to meet Los Angeles Police Department specifications. Most significantly, I have successfully managed the exposure and communication of Pelican’s globally recognized brand.
Dana Tamir, VP Market Strategy | Dana Tamir, VP Market Strategy at Silverfort | Boston, Massachusetts, United States | Management | Industry: Information Technology Software Background and Experience: Dana is a veteran of the cybersecurity industry with over 15 years of real-world expertise and leadership roles in leading security companies. Prior to Silverfort, Dana served as VP Marketing at Indegy. Before that, she served as Director of Enterprise Security at Trusteer (acquired by IBM in 2012). She also held various roles at Imperva, Symantec, Bindview, and Amdocs. Dana holds an engineering degree from the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, in addition to a number of industry and vendor certifications.
Dan Taylor, Founder | Heisenberg Media | Vienna, Vienna, Austria | Others… | Industry: Media & Entertainment Background and Experience: Dan Taylor is a highly accomplished photographer and master portraitist and has done one on one photography with HRH The Duke of York, Håkon, Norway’s Crown Prince, Sir Richard Branson, Steve Wozniak, Ray Kurzweil, Maye and Kimbal Musk, Robyn, Usher, Pharell Williams, Jimmy Wales, Werner Vogels, Tony Fadell, et. al. His work has been recognized by the worlds largest image distributor, Getty Images, where he’s an official contributor, and has published articles for FujiFilm and Nikon. Additionally, his works have appeared in Wired, Rolling Stone, The Wall Street Journal, and Forbes (amongst many others), and he’s done campaign work with British Airways, Lufthansa, Fiat-Chrysler Automobiles with Alfa Romeo, and the VW group for Audi.
Shauna Son, Director of Operations | Motive Interactive, Inc. | San Diego, California, United States | Operations | Industry: Advertising, Marketing, & Public Relations Background and Experience: Shauna Son is the Director of Operations at Motive Interactive, a global mobile app optimization and marketing company that combines over 15 years of experience in the digital advertising industry and sophisticated programmatic technology to drive user acquisition for some of the world’s top mobile app companies. As one of the first members of Motive’s founding team, Shauna has worked in digital marketing for 13 years and held almost every role at Motive throughout its development. In fact, at one point, Shauna donned three different job titles at Motive. She has always viewed Motive and its team as a family and enjoys her role acting as an advocate and mentor for new members of its family of employees. In particular, Shauna is passionate about mentoring women who are interested in the mobile advertising industry and has dedicated extra time and resources to mentoring the female members of her team to exude confidence and strength in the face of a traditionally male-dominated industry.
Jenna Corday, VP, Corporate Marketing | V Digital Services | Phoenix, Arizona, United States | Marketing | Industry: Advertising, Marketing, & Public Relations Background and Experience: Marketing Executive with responsibility for marketing strategies, brand management, partner marketing, field marketing, and event marketing for Voice Media Group, parent company of V Digital Services. 20 years experience working in entertainment, media, ticketing and publishing industries.
Ashraf Vallur, Product Manager, Software | Linedata | Boston, Massachusetts, United States | Product Development | Industry: Business Products and Services Background and Experience: Computers were scarce where I grew up. But that didn’t stop me from learning the skill to write computer programs. I still remember the excitement from creating those programs in the early days — and fast forward, I used those skills to solve real business problems. And now as a software Product Manager, I get to work with businesses in conceiving ideas, and turning them into products and see them used by real people. I am a technology enthusiast with 13+ years of experience in the computer software industry. I spent a good portion of my career in creating software for financial services space.
Marco Torregrossa, CEO | Euro Freelancers | Vantaa, Uusimaa, Finland | Business Development | Industry: Business Products and Services Background and Experience: I’m a workforce and labour markets advisor helping organisations prepare for how work will be delivered in the future and build better workplaces. I’m CEO atEuro Freelancers, a curated marketplace for consulting and legal services on-demand and Board Member at the European Sharing Economy Coalition, having led public affairs for platforms like Uber, Airbnb, Ebay. For the past 15 years, I’ve been leading government relations and advocacy efforts, advising policymakers on the issues that one-person businesses and their ecosystem face. I advise companies, large and small, on how to rethink the way they staff their projects and flexibilise their workforce. Through masterclasses I train to develop digital marketplaces focused on services provided by independent workers.
Adeyemi Ojerinola, Finance/Investment Analyst | Meinders School of Business | Norman, Oklahoma, United States | Finance | Industry: Accounting, Banking, Financial, and Insurance Background and Experience: . I am a professional accountant with 14 years (plus) extensive experience spanning across Financial review, forecast and reporting, budget administration, data assurance, project support/management and fund management. These are in addition to my problem-solving and process improvement skills and a snag for ensuring internal controls are adequate and promptly improved upon which has resulted in many excellent appraisal ratings and awards in the last 14 years. 11 and a quarter of my work experience was Chevron corporation – Nigeria Strategic Business Unit, where I served in various capacities, including but not limited to reporting, project support and investment management – pension fund. I also had 2 and a half year internal audit experience with Citigroup – Nigeria Branch.
Iro Antoniadou, Senior Manager Corporate Communications | Philip Morris International | Lausanne, Vaud, Switzerland | Corporate Communications | Industry: Consumer Products and Services Background and Experience: I am a corporate communications professional with more than 18 years of in-house experience. Having worked in multiple positions and geographical locations for Philip Morris International, a Fortune 500 company that is leading a transformation in the tobacco industry to create a smoke-free future and ultimately replace cigarettes with smoke-free products, has given me the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with leading and implementing complex global communications initiatives. My areas of expertise include media relations, strategic communications, executive communications, financial communications, and crisis & issues management in a challenging external environment.
Arjun Kumar Joginipelly, Vice President of Engineering | Freedom Electronics LLC | Acworth, Georgia, United States | Product Development | Industry: Electronics Background and Experience: Arjun Kumar Joginipelly, PhD, Vice President of Engineering at Freedom Electronics LLC, Georgia, USA. Dr. Arjun has 12 years of hands-on experience in the fields of Image Processing, Circuit Design, FPGAs & Embedded design. He is also an entrepreneur who loves to build start-up companies with focus more towards value added products. He holds a patent in IOT technology applied to petroleum gas dispensers. His work has been reported to several IEEE conferences and Journals. He has reviewed numerous papers for Journal of Real Time Image Processing. His areas of interest include Image processing using FPGAs, Separable and Bilateral Filters, Feature Extraction and Classification, and Logarithmic Multipliers.
Leslie Lee, Senior Director, Customer Engagement | Atlassian | Cupertino, California, United States | Marketing | Industry: Information Technology Software Background and Experience: Proven marketing leader with nearly 20 years of B2B and B2C marketing experience in Enterprise Software and Financial Services. Successfully led direct reports and cross-functional teams to launch several company firsts including: community platforms and user groups, merchant and consumer engagement programs, loyalty programs for top customers, advisory boards and vertical go-to-market plans. Known for applying data-driven analysis to decision-making and driving toward results. Specialties: Customer Marketing, Communities, Sales Strategy and Enablement, Go-To-Market Planning, Product Marketing, Customer Engagement & Loyalty, Solutions Marketing
Kirsi Pietilä, Head of Analytics | Bitfactor Ltd | Oulu, Oulu, Finland | Business Development | Industry: Consulting Background and Experience: I am a customer/human-centric, business-oriented, data-driven, entrepreneurial professional with 19+ years of experience from strategies, analytics, new services, and product concept creation & marketing. I have been working among mobile devices, wearables, finance, energy, and construction businesses. I love to be a mentor, team leader, and project manager for cross-functional teams. My specialty is to be extremely focused on identifying and capitalizing on opportunities to enhance customer experience and grow businesses by solving the real root causes and not only correcting the symptoms. We are entering towards the more complex world, where the most effective way to solve the problems is to gather around customers with cross-functional teams that have capabilities to understand the customer need/pain point and solve these problems by combining design, data, and technology in beautiful & naturally blended way. I believe and I have seen, that this is the key to succeed in the future that we are heading towards full speed. My passion is to help companies to concentrate on serving their customers and making their life easier by solving real problems, not just creating the movement.
Frank Veltri, Instructor | University of Oregon | Eugene, Oregon, United States | Sales | Industry: Education and Training Background and Experience: Over the past 20 years I have been teaching marketing and management courses at the university level. I have also been involved in service activities that include director of the Sales and marketing organizations. I have consulted with local business in developing a social media marketing plan for customer engagement.
Richard Van Staten, Chief Executive Officer | Quantam | Grosse Ile, Michigan, United States | Management | Industry: Information Technology Services Background and Experience: Richard Van Staten has earned a number of accolades throughout his career, including an Official Member of the Forbes Technology Council, Stevie Award IT Executive of the Year, Executive of the Year, and ComputerWorld Premier 100 Technology Leaders. But trophies and titles aren’t what drives him. Creating real, actionable paths to profitability for businesses and tech clients large and small are what he does best, and he’s never slowed down. His own companies like Quantam and Van Staten and Associates bring his skill to the worlds consulting and market penetration. He also serves as a mentor, helping guide numerous up-and-coming minds in the business sphere.
Ramachandran Parameswaran, Global Marketing Head, Digital Experience & Head of Campaigns & Channels | Wipro Digital | Bangalore, Karnataka, India | Marketing | Industry: Information Technology Services Background and Experience: In my current role, I wear 2 hats. First, I head the marketing function for Digital Experience, Wipro Digital globally. Second, I head the Demand generation for Wipro Digital, globally. My goal is to generate new pipeline, get new logos, deal influencing & build a great brand for Wipro Digital. Last year, we created $100Mn+ pipeline from DG team with many new logos. We have also influenced deals worth $500Mn+. Under my leadership, we have got 50+ leadership position, have built a successful brand for Wipro Digital. I have created multiple models like 4R model, 4M model, etc in the marketing space. Regarding my education, I did my MBA marketing from MDI Gurgaon & Master of European business from ESCP Paris. I have global exposure, working in US, Europe & India. My hobbies include cricket, jogging, investments & reading books.
Ken Kuang, President and CEO | Torrey Hills Technologies, LLC | San Diego, California, United States | Management | Industry: Manufacturing Background and Experience: Kuang is a successful business owner, seasoned executive and Amazon Best Seller. Kuang followed his entrepreneurial dream and founded Torrey Hills Technologies, LLC in 2004. Now Torrey Hills Technologies has grown to a leader in the supply of three roll mills, microelectronics packaging components, such as copper tungsten heat sinks, to major manufacturers. From 2004-2013, Kuang led Torrey Hills to rank #188 in INC500 Fast Growing Private Companies in America and rank #2 in San Diego Business Journal 100 Fastest Growing Private Companies in San Diego. Kuang was three times the finalist for the Most Admired CEO’s in San Diego. The company is now shipping world-wide to more than 60 countries and regions. Kuang has been a long term member of International Microelectronics And Packaging Society (IMAPS) and IMAPS VP of Membership. Kuang is recognized as an industry expert in RF/MW packaging, presented many times in packaging conferences and winning the Best Session Paper in IMAPS 2000, Best Symposium Paper in ICEPT 2003, IMAPS President Awards in 2008 & 2012 and Fellow of the Society in 2014. The company received 2013 Tibbetts Award in White House on May 16, 2013, cited for Excellence in Small Business Innovation Research.
Stacey Kulm, Director of Member Care (Support) | WebPT | Phoenix, Arizona, United States | Management | Industry: Cloud Computing/SaaS/Internet Background and Experience: I’ve been in the Customer Serviceindustry over 15 years. I’ve worked my way up from front-line Support to Director. I currently lead a team of 60 individuals globally. I’m driven by Customer Experience and creating a culture in Support where agents want to make a career out of service, or have a career-starting leap from the knowledge they gain on my team.
Amol Kadam, Co-Founder | http://www.rbbideas.com | Dubai, , United Arab Emirates | Information Technology | Industry: Information Technology Services Background and Experience: Amol is a co-founder of RBBI– region’s first, User Experience (UX) & Usability consultancy. RBBi is operating in Dubai since 2011. He is also a speaker at conferences locally & internationally. He talks and writes about Accessibility, Usability, User Research, Digital, CX, HX, UX and Design Thinking. For more than 20 years, Amol has conceptualised, designed and managed significant projects for a wide range of clients involving digital transformation, CX, UX, Emerging Technologies & strategy and usability.. Amol is a Design School Graduate and a holder of a master’s qualification in Human Computer Interaction. He is also a certified usability professional and a registered member of Usability Professionals Association Worldwide.
Amanda Lofty, Global Director – Corporate Communications | Calgon Carbon Corporation | Moon Township, Pennsylvania, United States | Corporate Communications | Industry: Manufacturing Background and Experience: Summary Highly experienced executive specializing in c-suite and internal communications strategies, global M&A communications, and corporate culture/change management communications. Experience and results in: Branding and identity, advertising, digital communications, media relations, government affairs, community giving, and crisis management. Experience Director – Global Communications Calgon Carbon Corporation 2013-Present Holds enterprise-wide responsibility for strategic and tactical leadership of global company communications issues. Ensures consistent messaging across all platforms to all stakeholders, both internal and external. Leads all corporate communications, including corporate visibility, media relations and public relations, alignment with corporate strategy, internal communications, corporate culture, and government affairs. Acts as communications partner to the executive leadership team. Principal/Owner 3PC Media 2008-2013 Principal and co-owner of 3PC Media, a full-service agency specializing in mobile application development, user interface design, and strategic communications and branding. In September 2013 3PC was acquired by Celerity, a VA-based business acceleration firm that delivers enterprise web and mobile, business transformation, and IT talent solutions for commercial organizations. Corporate Media Manager LANXESS Corporation 2007-2008 Developed and implemented all targeted content for various media platforms. Researched, wrote, proofed, and edited all media content, implemented and managed media campaigns, and delivered public relations and communications plans. Media Relations/Internal Communications Manager Eaton
Srivatsan Srinivasan, Principal | Deloitte Consulting Llp | San Jose, California, United States | Management | Industry: Consulting Background and Experience: 15 years of consulting experience leading large scale global business transformations, envisioning, and delivering technology strategy across supply chain, sales, and operations. I have consulted many High tech companies and help drive their Supply chain and Business transformation strategy. Currently focused on developing emerging market offering, and staff enablement programs for Customer, Sales and Ops capabilities and driving sales in the areas of Business transformation leveraging digital technologies.The work that Srivats Srinivasan has done has been recognized by many in the industry, couple of examples are highlighted below The CIO of Broadcom quoted the work done by Srivats Srinivasan in the wall street journal. https://deloitte.wsj.com/cio/2017/03/27/how-broadcom-keeps-the-it-lights-on-during-ma/ The CIO of E&J Gallo and Srivats Srinivasan was featured in the Wall street journal recognizing the extraordinary work that was done to digitally transform the winery. https://deloitte.wsj.com/cio/2018/10/28/gallo-cio-on-making-wine-the-digital-way/ Such testimonials of work that has been done by Srivats and Deloitte consulting has resulted in us being able to grow our practice to $1B and help establish our dominance in the market place. Srivats Srinivasan work has impacted the entire organization not just the area he focuses on, because he has allowed Deloitte consulting to be a leader in digital transformations and grow our market position.
Nandinin Raghunath Joshi, Founder | Community Policing | Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India | Business Development | Industry: Food & Beverage Background and Experience: Born in North Eastern Region of India in the State of Assam. Grand Father a Professor of Organic Chemistry Father in Defence and Mother Professor of Biochemistry. Culture and Education is Our Assets Did Research in Management of Cultural Tourism. Community Policing Was Started in 2008 for Awareness Have 11 Campaign 1. Community Policing 2. Community Policing – a Bridge Between Cleanliness, Safety and Greening. 3. Safety of Rail Passengers 4. Mapping of Elephant Movement Along the Railway Track 5. Road Safety Management Focus on Peadestrian Safety 6. Conservation of White Winged Wood Duck Endangered Species 7. Skill Development 8. Save River Godavari 9. Agro Nutrition Food and Beverages 10. Brand Building and Marketing Agarbhati, Coffee and Tea 11. Idli a Healthy Breakfast.
Khosha Kue, Sr. Business Process Analyst | OptumRx | Overland Park, Kansas, United States | Others… | Industry: Healthcare, Pharmaceuticals, Biotech, Health Products & Services Background and Experience: Results driven leader with over 12 year’s expertise in customer service, quality management, continuous improvement and project management. Creative and highly motivated professional with strong analytical and problem solving skills. Flexible and agile leader who develops high performing teams and understands the needs for consistent and reliable data in order to make the right and often difficult business decisions quickly within a variety of industries.
Calvin Jolley, Vice President, Corporate Communications | 4Life Research | Sandy, Utah, United States | Corporate Communications | Industry: Consumer Products and Services Background and Experience: I work in the areas of executive, corporate, and field communications. My experience includes brand marketing and global content protocols, corporate social responsibility; industry, field, and public relations; media engagement, crisis resolution, strategic development, training, presentation, and intensive deadline work. My work includes the concept, development, and launch of Team 4Life (athletic brand ambassadors), Foundation 4Life (501c(3)), the company’s social media engagement, and many programs past and ongoing to support distributors in the field. I strategize and execute communications initiatives that clarify executive intention, improve marketing protocols, establish company positioning, and ensure national and international content cohesion. My work is reliant upon partnerships: their identification, cultivation, and mutually beneficial continuation.
Yidi Tang, Aerodynamicist | L.A. Turbine | Valencia, California, United States | Product Development | Industry: Engineering and Technology Background and Experience: I’m an aerodynamicist who has strong background in fluid dynamics, thermal dynamics as well as turbomachinery design. My current job is to implement aero-design for radial turbo expander and compressor, which are the very first engineering work in our company’s production. All other engineers’ work would be built on my preliminary designs. I’m eager to learn. To me, being a judge is not about deciding. It’s about learning. It’s about giving feedbacks to others and help with themimproving what they’re doing.
Marion Choppin, Marketing Director | Intersec | La defense, Hauts-de-Seine, France | Marketing | Industry: Information Technology Software Background and Experience: Marion Choppin is the Marketing Director of Intersec. Graduated from Paris-Dauphine University with a Master in marketing, Marion is a seasoned marketing professional with 20 years leadership experience in Hi-Tech industry. During her career, she has successfully worked in French and International telecom and IT companies, with responsibilities including product management, communication and marketing. Mother of four, Marion is always enthusiastic when managing challenging projects to better serve customers.
Kimberly Presnail, VP Marketing & Culture | Active International | Toronto, Ontario, Canada | Marketing | Industry: Advertising, Marketing, & Public Relations Background and Experience: A creative marketing leader with 19 years of B2B and 6 years of B2C marketing and communications experience in high performing, cross functional teams. Current VP Marketing & Culture for Active International, an award-winning commercial innovation agency.
Karim Kanji, Director, Social & Emerging Media | Active International | Toronto, Ontario, Canada | Social Media/Digital | Industry: Advertising, Marketing, & Public Relations Background and Experience: Karim Kanji is a senior digital strategist who understands how to use various digital and social platforms to help brands reach their business and campaign goals and objectives. Currently, Karim is Director, Social Media Strategy at Active Media Services Canada. Karim also hosts the popular Welcome! with Karim Kanji podcast. Since 2010, Karim has worked with brands such as 3M Canada , eOne, Nikon Canada, Jamieson Vitamins, Mark’s, LG Electronics Canada, Muskoka Brewery, Post Cereals, Nestle Canada (Kit Kat, Delissio, Smarties, Purina, Gerber, Nespresso, etc), Dell Canada, GE Canada, Scotiabank, Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan, Microsoft, Wild Water Kingdom, and Palomino Systems Inc.
