The Future of Data & AI

Data & AI Think Tank

Visionaries

Manoj Balraj
Experion Technologies USA Inc.

Manoj Balraj

Co-Founder & President

Experion Technologies USA Inc.

About Me

With 30 years of experience spanning across Business Strategy, Global Sales, and Technology, Manoj Balraj plays a pivotal role in driving organizational growth and is the force behind business strategy and global sales, with an emphasis on product engineering excellence at Experion. His expertise spans product strategy, design, management, and engineering, ensuring Experion remains at the forefront of digital product development. Beyond work, Manoj volunteers as a mentor for youth and has worked with 400+ students as part of entrepreneurship initiatives. He is also passionate about performing arts, theatre, and film, earning him twelve acting nominations and five Best Actor wins at international film festivals.
Manu Cyriac
Harley-Davidson

Manu Cyriac

Head of Digital Products and Software Engineering

Harley-Davidson

About Me

Manu Cyriac is a seasoned technology executive with close to 15 years in digital transformation, software engineering, and technology optimization. He has a proven track record of driving innovation and efficiency for some of the most well-respected brands in the industry. As Head of Digital Product and Software Engineering at Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Manu has played a pivotal role in scaling digital platforms, optimizing technology investments, and enhancing customer experiences. His leadership has been instrumental in driving traffic and growth through digital channels by incorporating innovative digital strategies. Previously, Manu held key leadership positions at various Fortune 500 companies worldwide, successfully leading several business transformation programs and strategic initiatives.
Monica Sanchez
Fresche Solutions

Monica Sanchez

VP Strategic Transformations

Fresche Solutions

About Me

INNOVATIVE, PURPOSE-DRIVEN, COLLABORATIVE STRATEGIST AND RELATIONSHIP BUILDER | Enabling technology-driven business transformation | Advisor | Speaker - Former Fortune 500 CIO - Change leader in the business with a talent for making things happen - Forward-looking strategist who partners with business stakeholders and C-Level executives to co-create digital strategies - Educator and thought leader that invests in achieving cross-discipline support by educating peers and teams on the opportunities to support IT-driven growth - Accomplished in international markets, delivering products and IT services through a team dispersed in multiple locations ★ Competencies: - Strategy: Business-IT Alignment with Purpose | Collaboration | IT Strategy - Change: Strategic Initiatives | Transformation | Innovation | M&A - People: Team Building | Organizational Leadership | Coaching | Mentoring - Problem Solving: Process Improvement | Strategic Savings | Operational efficiency | Projects Rescue | Crisis management | Turnarounds
Tanweer Surve
PNC

Tanweer Surve

Head of Cloud Center of Enablement (CCoE) & Solutions Engineering

PNC

About Me

Over 20 years of proven track record in IT & Business, executing various leadership roles as Technology CTO (Cloud), Head of Enterprise Architecture & Cloud Technologies, Director of IT Infrastructure Shared Services, Solutions Architect, and Business Development Manager. Constructively contributed to the ever growing analytical and technical Business scenarios conceptualizing, implementing and delivering complex Global IT Digital Transformation Programs across NORTAM, EMEA, LATAM and ASPAC with my Technical and Business Management expertise in Business Architecture, Infrastructure Systems Architecture, Data & Application Architecture and Information Security around Cloud Computing. Strategic and delivery focused Senior Technology Leader with deep subject matter expertise. Build cross functional teams by hiring, mentoring several team members and assisting with developing personnel career-paths. Drives alignment of resources, processes and systems to seamlessly support and advance the business strategy of the organization through technology. Adept at planning, leveraging, researching and implementing technologies and effective IT service delivery models to continuously improve all aspects of business. With experience in diverse lines of business across Financial, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Retail, Telecom & Technology, highly effective in understanding business requirements and translating them to Architectural Design Requirements which helps in resolving complex technical issues during implementation, quickly and effectively.
Abhilash Kishore
Experion Technologies USA Inc.

Abhilash Kishore

Vice President, Product Engineering and Delivery

Experion Technologies USA Inc.

About Me

Abhilash Kishore is a product management expert with 24+ years of experience in building transformative digital products. As Vice President at Experion Technologies, he leads end- to-end product management and engineering—from product conceptualization to scalable deployment — driving innovation across transportation, automotive, hospitality and logistics. A strategic thinker and hands-on leader, Abhilash has played a pivotal role in shaping Experion’s product management excellence over the past 14+ years. His teams have delivered mission-critical products, including EV charging ecosystems, Travel Hospitality Products, IoT-based fleet management products and V2X communication for safer mobility. Beyond work, Abhilash is an adventurer, biker and runner. A former motorcycle rider on Himalaya's rugged terrain, he now finds his rhythm in long-distance running, inspiring his teams to embrace endurance—both in work and life.
John Qudeen
BAYADA Home HealthCare

John Qudeen

Division Director, Products & Platforms

BAYADA Home HealthCare

About Me

John Qudeen is a seasoned technology leader with over 15 years of experience helping multi-billion-dollar organizations solve complex talent and workforce challenges through automation and innovation. He currently serves as the Product Manager for HR Platforms at BAYADA Home Health Care, a $2 billion home health services provider with over 360 offices nationwide. In his role, John has led the design and implementation of an AI-driven platform aimed at attracting and retaining high-demand healthcare talent, positioning BAYADA at the forefront of digital transformation in healthcare HR.
Tanweer Surve
PNC

Tanweer Surve

Head of Cloud Center of Enablement (CCoE) & Solutions Engineering

PNC

About Me

Over 20 years of proven track record in IT & Business, executing various leadership roles as Technology CTO (Cloud), Head of Enterprise Architecture & Cloud Technologies, Director of IT Infrastructure Shared Services, Solutions Architect, and Business Development Manager. Constructively contributed to the ever growing analytical and technical Business scenarios conceptualizing, implementing and delivering complex Global IT Digital Transformation Programs across NORTAM, EMEA, LATAM and ASPAC with my Technical and Business Management expertise in Business Architecture, Infrastructure Systems Architecture, Data & Application Architecture and Information Security around Cloud Computing. Strategic and delivery focused Senior Technology Leader with deep subject matter expertise. Build cross functional teams by hiring, mentoring several team members and assisting with developing personnel career-paths. Drives alignment of resources, processes and systems to seamlessly support and advance the business strategy of the organization through technology. Adept at planning, leveraging, researching and implementing technologies and effective IT service delivery models to continuously improve all aspects of business. With experience in diverse lines of business across Financial, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Retail, Telecom & Technology, highly effective in understanding business requirements and translating them to Architectural Design Requirements which helps in resolving complex technical issues during implementation, quickly and effectively.

EVENT DETAILS

April 15, 2025

Agenda

April 15, 2025 / All times Central Time
8:30 AM-9:00 AM
Registration

9:00 AM-9:30 AM
Morning Networking
9:30 AM-9:35 AM
Opening Remarks
9:35 AM-10:10 AM
Fireside Chat
The Role of AI in Enhancing Digital Operations

Exploring the transformative influence of artificial intelligence on modern business processes. This session delves into how AI-driven technologies optimize digital operations, streamline workflows, and enhance efficiency. This Vision Voice will share insights into real-world applications, best practices, and the strategic integration of AI, empowering organizations to unlock new levels of productivity and innovation in the digital landscape.

Panelists
10:15 AM-11:00 AM
Keynote Panel
Next-Level Innovations: Unveiling Gen AI - The Hype, The Reality, and The Future

Executing on Gen AI Transformation in a meaningful way requires asking the right questions. Enterprises need to understand how to extract real value, mitigate risks, and leverage data to guide AI Transformation effectively through the digital noise from supplier ecosystem. This presentation/panel discussion will explore how business leaders can approach AI strategically, ensuring thoughtful implementation that aligns with organizational goals.

Panelists
Monica Sanchez Fresche Solutions

Chair

Monica Sanchez

VP Strategic Transformations

Fresche Solutions

INNOVATIVE, PURPOSE-DRIVEN, COLLABORATIVE STRATEGIST AND RELATIONSHIP BUILDER | Enabling technology-driven business transformation | Advisor | Speaker - Former Fortune 500 CIO - Change leader in the business with a talent for making things happen - Forward-looking strategist who partners with business stakeholders and C-Level executives to co-create digital strategies - Educator and thought leader that invests in achieving cross-discipline support by educating peers and teams on the opportunities to support IT-driven growth - Accomplished in international markets, delivering products and IT services through a team dispersed in multiple locations ★ Competencies: - Strategy: Business-IT Alignment with Purpose | Collaboration | IT Strategy - Change: Strategic Initiatives | Transformation | Innovation | M&A - People: Team Building | Organizational Leadership | Coaching | Mentoring - Problem Solving: Process Improvement | Strategic Savings | Operational efficiency | Projects Rescue | Crisis management | Turnarounds
Shuchi Agrawal Citi

Speaker

Shuchi Agrawal

CDO - Global Head of Metrics Data Provisioning & Automation

Citi

Tanweer Surve PNC

Speaker

Tanweer Surve

Head of Cloud Center of Enablement (CCoE) & Solutions Engineering

PNC

Over 20 years of proven track record in IT & Business, executing various leadership roles as Technology CTO (Cloud), Head of Enterprise Architecture & Cloud Technologies, Director of IT Infrastructure Shared Services, Solutions Architect, and Business Development Manager. Constructively contributed to the ever growing analytical and technical Business scenarios conceptualizing, implementing and delivering complex Global IT Digital Transformation Programs across NORTAM, EMEA, LATAM and ASPAC with my Technical and Business Management expertise in Business Architecture, Infrastructure Systems Architecture, Data & Application Architecture and Information Security around Cloud Computing. Strategic and delivery focused Senior Technology Leader with deep subject matter expertise. Build cross functional teams by hiring, mentoring several team members and assisting with developing personnel career-paths. Drives alignment of resources, processes and systems to seamlessly support and advance the business strategy of the organization through technology. Adept at planning, leveraging, researching and implementing technologies and effective IT service delivery models to continuously improve all aspects of business. With experience in diverse lines of business across Financial, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Retail, Telecom & Technology, highly effective in understanding business requirements and translating them to Architectural Design Requirements which helps in resolving complex technical issues during implementation, quickly and effectively.
Brandon Micci JPMorgan Chase

Speaker

Brandon Micci

Head of AI Strategy, Payments

JPMorgan Chase

Krishna Kishore  Gajjala UnitedHealth Group

Speaker

Kishore Krishna Gajjala

Director Software Engineering Generative AI

UnitedHealth Group

11:00 AM-11:15 AM
Coffee Break
11:15 AM-11:50 AM
Fireside Chat
Leading with Data: Insights, Impact, and Governance

Harnessing insights, ensuring meaningful impact, and establishing robust governance structures, enabling leaders to make informed decisions, drive innovation, and foster a data-driven organizational culture effectively. Let's dive into the practical insights into maximizing data's potential, ensuring its relevance, and upholding ethical standards in today's data-driven business landscape.

Panelists
Bill Radtke Cinergy

Speaker

Bill Radtke

CTO

Cinergy

Tanweer Surve PNC

Speaker

Tanweer Surve

Head of Cloud Center of Enablement (CCoE) & Solutions Engineering

PNC

Over 20 years of proven track record in IT & Business, executing various leadership roles as Technology CTO (Cloud), Head of Enterprise Architecture & Cloud Technologies, Director of IT Infrastructure Shared Services, Solutions Architect, and Business Development Manager. Constructively contributed to the ever growing analytical and technical Business scenarios conceptualizing, implementing and delivering complex Global IT Digital Transformation Programs across NORTAM, EMEA, LATAM and ASPAC with my Technical and Business Management expertise in Business Architecture, Infrastructure Systems Architecture, Data & Application Architecture and Information Security around Cloud Computing. Strategic and delivery focused Senior Technology Leader with deep subject matter expertise. Build cross functional teams by hiring, mentoring several team members and assisting with developing personnel career-paths. Drives alignment of resources, processes and systems to seamlessly support and advance the business strategy of the organization through technology. Adept at planning, leveraging, researching and implementing technologies and effective IT service delivery models to continuously improve all aspects of business. With experience in diverse lines of business across Financial, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Retail, Telecom & Technology, highly effective in understanding business requirements and translating them to Architectural Design Requirements which helps in resolving complex technical issues during implementation, quickly and effectively.
Sasaenia Paul Oluwabunmi Citi

Speaker

Sasaenia Paul Oluwabunmi

SVP, Enterprise Product Manager

Citi

11:55 AM-12:40 PM
Panel
AI-led Product Engineering and Digital Transformation.

Let's explore the significance of integrating AI into digital strategies, emphasizing its transformative impact on various industries. It delves into key considerations such as data-driven decision-making, personalized customer experiences, and operational efficiency. Additionally, the synopsis highlights the challenges associated with AI implementation, such as ethical concerns and the need for robust cybersecurity measures. Through the lens of real-world examples and industry insights, it underscores how a well-executed AI strategy can position organizations for success, driving growth, agility, and long-term sustainability.

Panelists
Manu Cyriac Harley-Davidson

Speaker

Manu Cyriac

Head of Digital Products and Software Engineering

Harley-Davidson

Manu Cyriac is a seasoned technology executive with close to 15 years in digital transformation, software engineering, and technology optimization. He has a proven track record of driving innovation and efficiency for some of the most well-respected brands in the industry. As Head of Digital Product and Software Engineering at Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Manu has played a pivotal role in scaling digital platforms, optimizing technology investments, and enhancing customer experiences. His leadership has been instrumental in driving traffic and growth through digital channels by incorporating innovative digital strategies. Previously, Manu held key leadership positions at various Fortune 500 companies worldwide, successfully leading several business transformation programs and strategic initiatives.
Abhilash Kishore Experion Technologies USA Inc.

Speaker

Abhilash Kishore

Vice President, Product Engineering and Delivery

Experion Technologies USA Inc.

Abhilash Kishore is a product management expert with 24+ years of experience in building transformative digital products. As Vice President at Experion Technologies, he leads end- to-end product management and engineering—from product conceptualization to scalable deployment — driving innovation across transportation, automotive, hospitality and logistics. A strategic thinker and hands-on leader, Abhilash has played a pivotal role in shaping Experion’s product management excellence over the past 14+ years. His teams have delivered mission-critical products, including EV charging ecosystems, Travel Hospitality Products, IoT-based fleet management products and V2X communication for safer mobility. Beyond work, Abhilash is an adventurer, biker and runner. A former motorcycle rider on Himalaya's rugged terrain, he now finds his rhythm in long-distance running, inspiring his teams to embrace endurance—both in work and life.
Manoj Balraj Experion Technologies USA Inc.

Speaker

Manoj Balraj

Co-Founder & President

Experion Technologies USA Inc.

With 30 years of experience spanning across Business Strategy, Global Sales, and Technology, Manoj Balraj plays a pivotal role in driving organizational growth and is the force behind business strategy and global sales, with an emphasis on product engineering excellence at Experion. His expertise spans product strategy, design, management, and engineering, ensuring Experion remains at the forefront of digital product development. Beyond work, Manoj volunteers as a mentor for youth and has worked with 400+ students as part of entrepreneurship initiatives. He is also passionate about performing arts, theatre, and film, earning him twelve acting nominations and five Best Actor wins at international film festivals.
John Qudeen BAYADA Home HealthCare

Speaker

John Qudeen

Division Director, Products & Platforms

BAYADA Home HealthCare

John Qudeen is a seasoned technology leader with over 15 years of experience helping multi-billion-dollar organizations solve complex talent and workforce challenges through automation and innovation. He currently serves as the Product Manager for HR Platforms at BAYADA Home Health Care, a $2 billion home health services provider with over 360 offices nationwide. In his role, John has led the design and implementation of an AI-driven platform aimed at attracting and retaining high-demand healthcare talent, positioning BAYADA at the forefront of digital transformation in healthcare HR.
Together With:
Experion Technologies Inc.
12:40 PM-1:30 PM
Lunch & Networking
1:30 PM-2:15 PM
Panel
Building Cyber Fortitude: CISO Strategies for Resilient Cybersecurity

In the realm of building cyber resilience, organizations confront increased risk exposure amidst bold moves and evolving external challenges. Despite investments in technology and data, risk leaders, including CISOs, express difficulty in keeping pace with the persistent threat of cyber crises. However, in today's business landscape, discussions of digital transformation or reinvention are inseparable from considerations of cybersecurity. Looking ahead, stakeholders, from the board to frontline cybersecurity operations, pose critical questions about resiliency. This includes inquiries about the adequacy of efforts to safeguard the company and its customers in the face of cyber attacks. The focus shifts to identifying opportunities to minimize the impact on business and shareholder value through effective threat response. Embracing cybersecurity as a whole-of-business endeavor, organizations are urged to align themselves with business owners, adapting to changes in the cyber landscape and fortifying resilience against disruptions. Building confidence in the cybersecurity program becomes paramount in navigating the dynamic and challenging cyber landscape effectively.

Panelists
Robert Pace Invitation Homes

Speaker

Robert Pace

VP/CISO

Invitation Homes

Robert is the Vice President, Information Security and CISO for Invitation Homes. He is responsible for leading the Information Security program for Invitation Homes. Responsibilities include establishing a sound security strategy, governance, operations, service delivery, business integration and end-user awareness training. Robert’s career spans over 20 years in leading global teams in the delivery of IT Security operations. Robert has been influential in the leadership, design of security operations and delivery at First American Payment Systems, Dell Services, Williamson-Dickie Mfg. Co., Bell Helicopter, Textron and Ameritech. Robert also has significant consulting experience obtained while working at PricewaterhouseCoopers. Robert has a Bachelor of Science Degree from Michigan State University and a Master of Science Degree from Walsh College of Business and Accountancy. Robert has completed the Executive Leadership Program at Thunderbird - Gavin School of International Management. He is a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), a Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Chief Information Security Officer (C|CISO), ITILv3 and a Certified Six-Sigma Green Belt.
Georgeo Pulikkathara United States Army

Speaker

Georgeo Pulikkathara

CIO & CISO/G-6

United States Army

Navarasu Dhanasekar Schneider Electric Digital Grid

Speaker

Navarasu Dhanasekar

CISO

Schneider Electric Digital Grid

Navarasu is a visionary leader in the cybersecurity, IT Security, compliance, process improvement and assurance services industry. His deep OT & IT experience and leadership skills has enabled successful outcomes for the clients, partners, employees and consultants. One of the key challenges that is addressed via this startup includes the ability to design a NERC-CIP attestation framework for a cloud based industrial application that connects to SCADA/ICS systems. Navarasu’s core strengths includes: * Putting together high performing collaborative teams to solve critical problems * Ability to discuss and communicate about cybersecurity initiatives to the executive management in a simple and easy to understand business language * Driving the vision and strategy towards actions and outcomes * Creating network effect for business growth opportunities His previous employments includes leadership roles at Ampcus Cyber, Stanford GSB, GE Digital, Pivotal Software, SOAProjects, Seagate, Ernst & Young and other international public accounting firms. He is an advisor and mentor for several startups. He was a former board member of ISACA Silicon Valley Chapter. He is a speaker and volunteer for the non-profit security organizations in the Silicon Valley area.
2:20 PM-2:55 PM
Fireside Chat
Future-Proofing the Workforce: Upskilling for the Next Era of IT Innovation

The global IT talent shortage isn’t going away — and hiring alone won’t close the gap. To fully capitalize on disruptive technologies like AI, cloud, and cybersecurity, CIOs and IT leaders must prioritize upskilling and reskilling their existing workforce. This panel will dive into how organizations can identify critical skill gaps, create effective upskilling programs at scale, and foster a culture of continuous learning and innovation. We’ll also explore how emerging technologies like AI and automation are reshaping workforce demands and what leaders need to do now to ensure their teams are ready for the future.

Panelists
Sasaenia Paul Oluwabunmi Citi

Speaker

Sasaenia Paul Oluwabunmi

SVP, Enterprise Product Manager

Citi

Steven Soares JP Morgan Chase

Speaker

Steven Soares

CAO Strategic Initiatives / VP, Intelligent Solutions Learning

JP Morgan Chase

2:55 PM-3:15 PM
Networking Break
3:15 PM-3:30 PM
Tech Leadership Redefined: Opportunity, Obligation, and Impact

DFW Alliance of Technology and Women 
(DFW*ATW) is a vital non-profit organization committed to supporting the holistic education and professional journey for girls and women in technology. Our members are women and their allies.

 DFW Alliance of Technology and Women (DFW*ATW) is committed to quality programs and education for girls and women to increase the number on women professionals in technology fields.

3:35 PM-4:10 PM
Panel
Cultivating Inclusive Excellence: Driving Diversity in Technology Leadership

Let's explore the imperative of diversity in technology leadership roles, particularly within the CIO and Security domain. From gender and ethnicity to varied professional backgrounds, diverse perspectives foster innovation, resilience, and better decision-making in today's rapidly evolving tech landscape. Join us as industry leaders share their experiences, insights, and strategies for promoting inclusivity, breaking down barriers, and empowering underrepresented groups in technology leadership roles. From fostering inclusive cultures within organisations to implementing proactive recruitment and mentorship initiatives, attendees will gain actionable insights to drive meaningful change and cultivate diverse, high-performing technology teams. Let's chart a course towards inclusive excellence in technology leadership together.

Panelists
4:15 PM-4:20 PM
Closing Remarks & Raffle Giveaway
4:20 PM-5:30 PM
Cocktail Networking

Together With