Your Front-Row Seat to Exponential IT in Motion
Join us at Info-Tech Research Group's annual flagship conference – Info-Tech LIVE.
This premier three-day conference brings together more than 2,000 IT executives, thought leaders, industry analysts, and technology experts in an engaging, interactive, and insightful event that explores the future of technology and innovation.
At LIVE 2024, we'll deliver the actionable tools, knowledge, and insights that IT leaders need to thrive in an exponentially complex and fast-paced technological world. We're calling it "Exponential IT in Motion."
Don't miss this opportunity to take your seat at Info-Tech LIVE!
September 17-19
The Bellagio in Las Vegas
Here's what to
expect at LIVE 2024...
60+
Breakout and Workshop Sessions
80+
Lightning Rounds
700+
Analyst Discussions
50+
Feature and Technology Keynotes
60+
Industry Roundtables and Panels
+Unlimited
PEER-TO-PEER NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES
Exhibitors
In 2024, LIVE conference attendees engaged with top-tier technology and solution providers at our Exhibitor Showcase, at thought leadership sessions, and at networking events, creating a dynamic environment for learning, growth, and connection. This year, we look forward to expanding our exhibitor space for even greater access to the latest technology, hands-on demonstrations, and valuable networking with innovators and industry leaders.
View Exhibitors
Immerse Yourself
in the LIVE Experience
Info-Tech LIVE is a must-attend event
for technology leaders in 2024.
Take your seat at Info-Tech LIVE and put theory into practice.
- Immerse yourself in a vibrant LIVE experience that embraces disruption, challenges traditional thinking, and fuels innovation.
- Gain valuable insights into the latest trends, emerging technologies, and best practices, and return to your workplace ready to turn visionary concepts into tangible outcomes.
- Explore fresh perspectives and forge valuable connections with a world-class audience of more than 2,000 thought leaders, industry experts, and fellow IT professionals.
Show value for your attendance at LIVE 2024. Choose from two sample justification letters that explain all the benefits of Info-Tech LIVE.
Speakers
Watch this space as we continue to unveil our distinguished keynote lineup
Aaron Shum
Vice President, Research & Advisory, Security & Privacy, Info-Tech
Aaron Shum
Vice President, Research & Advisory, Security & Privacy, Info-Tech
With 25+ years of experience across IT, InfoSec, and Data Privacy, Aaron currently leads the development efforts and advisory delivery of Info-Tech’s IT research, with a specific focus on key areas such as Exponential IT, security & privacy, infrastructure & operations, and IT workforce development programs. Before joining Info-Tech, Aaron led the GDPR compliance efforts of a large multinational enterprise with over 80 locations spanning 24 countries. Prior to that, Aaron supported the growth of a multinational technology integration company as its global head of IT and InfoSec.
Bill Wong
AI Research Fellow, Info-Tech
Bill Wong
AI Research Fellow, Info-Tech
Bill Wong is an AI Research Fellow at Info-Tech Research Group, where he leads research focused on Generative AI, AI Strategy, Responsible AI, and AI regulations and legislation. He has led and guided hundreds of strategic AI initiatives worldwide, collaborating with C-level executives, data scientists, and data engineers. Prior to joining Info-Tech, Wong was the AI and Data Analytics Practice Leader at Dell Technologies for five years. He also held consulting, development, product management, and executive roles at Microsoft, Oracle, and IBM. Wong has authored numerous articles, whitepapers, books, and was a contributing author for a scientific paper on using deep learning algorithms to accelerate drug discovery. He is a frequent conference speaker, and his insights have been featured in such outlets as InformationWeek, CIO Dive, TechTarget, and the Harvard Business Review.
Carlene McCubbin
AVP, CIO Research, Info-Tech
Carlene McCubbin
AVP, CIO Research, Info-Tech
A skilled facilitator, researcher, and advisor, Carlene covers key topics in strategy, transformation, and leadership. She has worked with hundreds of clients across various public and private sectors to effectively design and execute IT organizational changes. Carlene is passionate about workforce development and the interconnectedness of employee, digital, and service experiences as foundational elements for successful leadership and business growth. In her current role, she leads the research agenda and oversees the development of new research and products. Carlene received her Master of Communications Management from McGill University, where she studied development of internal and external communications, government relations, and change management.
Daniel Pink
#1 New York Times Bestselling Author of The Power of Regret, When, To Sell is Human, Drive, and A Whole New Mind
Daniel Pink
#1 New York Times Bestselling Author of The Power of Regret, When, To Sell is Human, Drive, and A Whole New Mind
For the last two decades, Daniel Pink’s books have helped individuals and organizations around the world rethink how they live and operate. His works on business, creativity, and behavior have won multiple awards, been translated into 42 languages, and sold millions of copies in the U.S. and abroad. Pink was host and co-executive producer of “Crowd Control,” a National Geographic Television series on human behavior that aired in more than 100 countries. His MasterClass on sales and persuasion is one of the most popular courses on that platform, and his TED Talk on the science of motivation has been viewed more than 40 million times.
Dr. Timnit Gebru
Founder & Executive Director, The Distributed AI Research Institute (DAIR)
Dr. Timnit Gebru
Founder & Executive Director, The Distributed AI Research Institute (DAIR)
A trail-blazing computer scientist and the former co-lead of Google’s Ethical AI research team, Dr. Gebru is renowned for her efforts to reduce the potential negative impacts of AI. Prior to receiving her PhD from the Stanford Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, she worked at Apple designing circuits and signal processing algorithms for various Apple products, including the first iPad. Dr. Gebru’s work has been covered by outlets ranging from the New York Times to The Economist, and she has been named to notable lists such as the Bloomberg 50, Wired 25, and Forbes 30 inspirational women. Most recently, Dr. Gebru was awarded the Electronic Frontier Foundation’s pioneer award.
Geoff Nielson
SVP, Brand Reach & Influence, Info-Tech
Geoff Nielson
SVP, Brand Reach & Influence, Info-Tech
Geoff brings over 15 years of service to Info-Tech, during which time he has held a number of pivotal roles. He currently leads Info-Tech’s Brand & Content team, which is responsible for crystalizing the organization’s research insights and sharing them with technology leaders. Previously, he led the Executive Services and Consulting organizations responsible for providing strategic guidance to thousands of CIOs and senior technology leaders globally. As Vice Present of Strategy and Innovation, he led the organization’s digital transformation. His team brought over a dozen SaaS products to market, mandated to disrupt traditional technology and strategy consulting using data-driven management software. Geoff received his Honours Business Administration from the Richard Ivey School of Business at the University of Western Ontario.
Jack Hakimian
SVP, Research & Advisory Services, Info-Tech
Jack Hakimian
SVP, Research & Advisory Services, Info-Tech
With 30+ years of technology and management consulting experience, Jack has served multi-billion-dollar organizations in industries including financial services, oil & gas, and telecommunications. He has also served large federal and state government institutions. Prior to Info-Tech, Jack worked for leading consulting players, including Accenture, Deloitte, EY, and IBM. He led digital business strategy engagements, corporate strategy, and M&A consulting services for clients globally. He has built AI implementation roadmaps, led enterprise-wide digital transformations, and managed the deployment of mission-critical CRM and ERP applications. A frequent speaker at technology and innovation events, Jack holds a master’s degree in computer engineering and an MBA from the ESCP European Business School.
Jennifer Rozon
Division President, McLean & Company
Jennifer Rozon
Division President, McLean & Company
Jennifer Rozon is the Division President of McLean & Company. She manages the overall vision and strategy for research, product development, business development, and customer experience. She is passionate about elevating HR departments and translating innovative ideas into execution through inspired team members. Rozon is an analytical leader who drives bottom-line results while staying people-focused and embraces change as an opportunity to drive breakthrough performance. She is a firm believer that creating an exceptional employee experience will in turn create a better member experience. Since joining the organization in 2006, Rozon has held positions in research, business development, corporate strategy, and product development. She pioneered some of the first blueprints and diagnostic products, including the development of the Employee Engagement Program.
Jeremy Roberts
Senior Workshop Director, Info-Tech
Jeremy Roberts
Senior Workshop Director, Info-Tech
Jeremy Roberts is a Senior Workshop Director at Info-Tech Research Group. He leads engagements on topics as diverse as cloud and core infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and end user computing. When he’s not working directly with members, he’s sharing his thoughts with the media, delivering keynote presentations, and working with colleagues to build Info-Tech's research. Roberts has worked at Info-Tech since 2016 in a variety of roles and holds BA and PhD degrees from the University of Western Ontario, and an MSc from the University of Oxford.
Laurence Moroney
AI Researcher and Author
Laurence Moroney
AI Researcher and Author
Moroney’s session, “Navigating the AI Landscape: From Hype to Reality,” will examine the current state of AI technology, separating genuine advancements from exaggerated claims. Attendees will gain valuable perspectives on implementing AI solutions that align with their business objectives, enhancing operational efficiency, and fostering innovation. Drawing from his extensive experience at Google and his acclaimed publications, Moroney will provide practical insights to help IT leaders make informed decisions in an increasingly AI-driven world.
Rob Meikle
Executive Counselor, Info-Tech
Rob Meikle
Executive Counselor, Info-Tech
Rob Meikle is an Executive Consultant, Keynote Speaker, and Board Advisor to several emerging technology organizations. Meikle is the former CIO for City of Toronto and the City of Brampton, Ontario, Canada, where he created high-performance teams to deliver innovative and transformational solutions. His leadership experience spans the private, public, and not-for-profit sectors. He is actively involved in his local community, fostering sustainable inter-generational social impact. An international award-winning CIO who was twice featured on the cover of the Canadian CIO Magazine, Meikle made history as the first and only Canadian municipal CIO to be named on the prestigious global CIO 100 honoree list. He has also received the Global Computerworld Premier 100 IT Leadership Award and the National Government (GTEC) Next Generation Leadership Awards.
Rory Richardson
Director, Next Generation Developer Experience, GenAI GTM
Rory Richardson
Director, Next Generation Developer Experience, GenAI GTM
As the GTM Director for AWS Next Generation of Developer Experiences, Rory plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of cloud development. With over a decade of experience at AWS, she has spearheaded go-to-market strategies across a diverse range of technologies, from non-relational databases to pioneering serverless computing solutions. Driven by a passion for enabling innovation through cutting-edge cloud technologies, Rory's current focus lies in leveraging the transformative power of Generative AI to redefine the role of developer tools. Her vision and leadership have been instrumental in introducing new cloud capabilities that expand the possibilities for developers building on AWS Services. Throughout her tenure, Rory has consistently demonstrated a knack for bringing innovative ideas to life, empowering developers to push the boundaries of what's possible in the cloud. Her commitment to staying ahead of the curve has positioned AWS as a frontrunner in delivering best-in-class developer experiences.
Tom Zehren
Chief Executive Officer, Info-Tech
Tom Zehren
Chief Executive Officer, Info-Tech
Tom Zehren is the Chief Executive Officer of Info-Tech Research Group. Prior to joining Info-Tech initially as the firm’s Chief Product Officer in 2022, Tom spent a decade with McKinsey & Company. He holds a summa cum laude Ph.D. and was faculty in Technology Management at the Technical University of Dortmund, Germany. He has been a pro bono advisor to Ashoka Globalizer Summit Fellows and other fast-growing technology firms and VC funds across the US, Canada, and Germany for more than a decade.
Allen Larsen
CIO, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department
Allen Larsen
CIO, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department
Allen Larsen is the Commander of the Digital Investigations Bureau with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD), where he has served for the past 18 years. Commander Larsen oversees LVMPD’s Digital Forensics Lab, Cyber Crime Unit, Systems Administration Unit and Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
Andrew Johnson
Strategic Planning & Design Manager, WaTech (Washington Technology Services)
Andrew Johnson
Strategic Planning & Design Manager, WaTech (Washington Technology Services)
Andrew Johnson is a Solutions Architect based in Olympia, WA. He is responsible for the State’s adoption of SD-WAN technology and interconnecting state government with cloud-based resources and external business partners. Johnson spearheaded the development of the state’s SD-WAN strategy, oversaw proof of concept efforts, and designed solutions that have enabled the state government to leverage cutting-edge technology in serving the residents of Washington State. He serves as the Principal Architect overseeing the state’s adoption of zero trust, Secure Access Service Edge (SASE), and Secure Service Edge (SSE). Johnson is a retired Army Signal Warrant Officer.
Ann Mengelson-Clark
Chief Technology Officer, Kuvare
Ann Mengelson-Clark
Chief Technology Officer, Kuvare
Ann Mengelson-Clark leads the technology platform for the domestic companies of Kuvare and has over 25 years of experience in the life and annuity industry. Prior to joining the team at the Kuvare platform level, she served as Corporate Technology Officer for Guaranty Corporation. Mengelson-Clark holds BS and MS degrees from Louisiana State University. Headquartered in Chicago, IL, Kuvare is a technology-enabled financial services platform whose core business areas include retail annuity and life insurance, institutional markets, investment management, and bespoke insurance solutions. The family of Kuvare companies includes Lincoln Benefit Life Company, Guaranty Income Life Insurance Company, United Life Insurance Company, Kuvare Life Re, and Ignite Partners.
Archana Nirad
CIO, BCFSA
Archana Nirad
CIO, BCFSA
Archana Nirad serves as the Chief Information Officer for BCFSA. Nirad is responsible for leading enterprise-wide digital transformations and crafting strategic IT roadmaps aligning technology initiatives with business goals. Prior to joining BCFSA, Nirad held various roles in project and program governance, project management, business intelligence, and business analysis across global, private, and public sectors. She has successfully established new capabilities, including the creation of project management offices and process optimization units within various organizations. Nirad enjoys reading and travelling in her personal time.
Ben Linares
Product Manager, FinOps & Cost Optimization, Starbucks
Ben Linares
Product Manager, FinOps & Cost Optimization, Starbucks
Benjamin Linares is an award-winning technologist and FinOps pioneer with a strong track record in digital content marketing, product strategy, and leadership. With over two decades of experience, he excels in transforming operational chaos into structured efficiency, driving revenue growth, and delivering exceptional business value. Known for his strategic, analytical approach, Linares is adept at leading innovative projects and building resilient teams across various industries.
Bob Leek
CIO, Clark County, Nevada
Bob Leek
CIO, Clark County, Nevada
Bob Leek is Chief Information Officer for Clark County, Nevada, supporting over 2.4M residents, 70K businesses, and over 43M visitors to Las Vegas and surrounding areas every year. He has over 25 years of leadership experience, including almost 20 years in information technology disciplines. Before joining Clark County, Leek worked in public sector county government, both human and pet health care in non-profit organizations, and commercial online retail services. His experience includes leadership roles in retail operations, corporate financial reporting, international operations, logistics management, and fostering inclusion and equity.
Brian Mulcahey
EVP, CIO, Sunflower Bank
Brian Mulcahey
EVP, CIO, Sunflower Bank
Brian Mulcahey serves as Executive Vice President, Chief Information Officer for Sunflower Bank, N.A. Prior, he has held technology leadership roles at Chemical Bank, Capitol Bancorp Ltd, Eastern Michigan University, WebMD, Inc., and Domino’s Pizza, Inc. At Sunflower, Mulcahey is responsible for leading the IT, IT Risk Mgmt & IS, Business Relationship, and Enterprise Project Management functions. He is also currently leading the integration of Homestreet Bank into Sunflower, which will roughly double the size of the organization. Mulcahey received a B.A. in Computer Science and French Language and Literature from Eastern Michigan University. He resides in Michigan with his family.
C. Fara Francis
Global CIO, Center for Creative Leadership (CLL)
C. Fara Francis
Global CIO, Center for Creative Leadership (CLL)
C. Fara Francis, Global CIO at the Center for Creative Leadership, leverages her expertise in technology and leadership to advance the organization’s mission. Her prior roles include CIO at ASCD and AGC of America and Manager/Technology Consultant at Grant Thornton, LLP and Broadpoint Technologies. Francis holds an Executive Leadership Certificate from MIT, an MBA in Finance from Marymount University and is PMP certified. She serves on the board of the Society for Information Management (SIM) Capital Area Chapter and as an advisory member for the SIM National Chapter Advisory Board. Francis is passionate about inspiring others to achieve their goals.
Carrie Ann Williamson
Director of Technology, Town of Whitby
Carrie Ann Williamson
Director of Technology, Town of Whitby
Carrie Ann Williamson has over 20 years’ experience in public sector and is currently the Director of Technology and Innovation Services at the Town of Whitby. Williamson is deeply passionate about how technology can enable people and processes, driving efficiency and innovation in employee and citizen experiences. An accredited project manager, business relationship manager, and change management professional, she is always striving to foster growth and improvement within her teams and the organizations she serves.
Chris Pailma
Chief Data Officer, Los Angeles County
Chris Pailma
Chief Data Officer, Los Angeles County
As the Chief Data Officer (CDO) for Los Angeles County, Christopher “Chris” Pailma is responsible for the County’s Enterprise Information Management Program (EIMP) and the Analytics Center of Excellence (ACE). He is responsible for overseeing all aspects of data management, including data architecture, data integration, data warehousing, and data analytics to facilitate information sharing, improve delivery of services, and ensure effective use of IT and data-related assets between the County’s 38+ departments, commissions, and agencies.
Christine Shook
Director of Architecture, Applications and Analytics, Consumers Energy
Christine Shook
Director of Architecture, Applications and Analytics, Consumers Energy
Christine Shook leads a team responsible for technology strategy and solutions that enable business outcomes, application rationalization, and more recently led the Generative AI strategy. Shook’s previous roles included Lead for the Product Model Transformation and Business Case Manager. Before pivoting to technology, she spent 13 years in gas design and leadership roles. Shook is a passionate advocate for women in technology, serving on the Board of Directors for the Michigan Council of Women in Technology (MCWT) Foundation and volunteering for multiple programs.
David Costa
Director, Kubota Credit Corporation Technology Services
David Costa
Director, Kubota Credit Corporation Technology Services
David Costa has over 25 years of experience in Consumer Finance, Securitization, and Financial Systems design and management. Costa joined Kubota Credit Corporation early 2022 to lead its Information Technology group. Previously, he led technology teams at Harley Davidson Financial Services for 10 years, and has led system organizations for JPMorgan, Prudential Financial, Chase Manhattan Bank, and several privately held financial service firms. Costa has been a resident of Dallas since 2007 and is an avid local sailor.
David Smith
Vice President, Technology, Sanmar
David Smith
Vice President, Technology, Sanmar
David Smith takes a collaborative and transparent approach to solving problems and unlocking business value. His strategic mindset helps the team prioritize and look for opportunities to help the company grow and be more efficient. Smith joined SanMar after leading enterprise application teams at T-Mobile and Travelocity. While he started his career in the world of Finance, he has spent most of his career in Technology.
Deb Anderson
CIO, Endeavor Health
Deb Anderson
CIO, Endeavor Health
Deb Anderson is the Chief Information Officer at Endeavor Health, leading IT solutions, data analytics, and aligning technical platforms with the organization’s vision of delivering a safe, seamless, secure, and personalized experience for every person, every time. With over 25 years in technology, she has transformed IT departments in Fortune 100 companies and startups. Anderson integrates advanced technology to enhance patient care and operational efficiency. Formerly, she was the SVP and CIO for the Midwest Region of Advocate Health System. She holds an MBA in Finance and Economics from the University of Chicago, a BS in Electrical Engineering Technology, and certifications in Lean, ITIL, and PMP.
Doug Miller
Executive Director, IT Security, Governance, Risk & Compliance, Baylor College of Medicine
Doug Miller
Executive Director, IT Security, Governance, Risk & Compliance, Baylor College of Medicine
Doug Miller has over 30 years of technology experience in Healthcare, Academia, Energy, Banking and more. Early in his career, Miller’s focus was on IT operations. Since then, his interests shifted to governance where he has provided leadership to IT Finance, IT Operations, Project/Program Management, Organizational Change Management, IT Architecture, Cyber Security and more. In his current role, Miller is a strong champion of Business Relationship Management helping the Baylor IT team to be the “first phone call” to their partners.
Dr. Denise Cornish
Interim Senior Vice President, Western University Health Sciences
Dr. Denise Cornish
Interim Senior Vice President, Western University Health Sciences
Dr. Denise Cornish is the Interim Senior Vice President for the Division of Institutional Shared Services at Western University of Health Sciences. With a Doctorate in Business Management, an MBA, a BS in Computer Information Systems, and a Chief Operating Officer certificate from MIT, she excels in strategic leadership and managing large-scale implementations. Dr. Cornish oversees Human Resources, IT, Facilities & Physical Plant, and Environmental Health & Safety. A Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and award-winning CIO, she has a track record in operational excellence and crisis management. Dr. Cornish fosters collaboration, innovation, and sustainability in her initiatives.
Ed DePrimo
CIO, Mauser Packaging
Ed DePrimo
CIO, Mauser Packaging
Ed DePrimo is an experienced and technically savvy IT executive with significant business, financial, and technical acumen coupled with an engaging and transformative leadership style. He has a proven track record of aligning teams, processes, and technologies to enable business success across multiple industries. DePrimo successfully manages multiple priorities simultaneously – delivering sound decisions in times of high stress. DePrimo is a strategic business partner, consistently improving established processes to best align with company priorities and to drive improvement in service levels and project deliverables. He speaks both business and technical language to best connect with stakeholders and reach desired outcomes, and takes a decisive and intuitive, solution-focused approach to provide team momentum from inception through project fruition. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for complex problem solving and project innovation.
Elizabeth Adcock
CIO, MAC Federal Credit Union
Elizabeth Adcock
CIO, MAC Federal Credit Union
Elizabeth Adcock is the Chief Information Officer and Chief Information Security Officer for MAC Federal Credit Union based in Fairbanks, Alaska. Specializing in delivering innovative digital banking and payments experiences, she enjoys finding the balance between ease of use for the customer and advanced security for the organization. Having successfully used virtual agents, natural language programming, machine learning, and robotic process automation in the credit union space over the last 10+ years, she is currently evaluating how Generative AI can be responsibly used to improve the customer experience in financial services.
Ellen Wiegand
SVP & CIO, VCU Health
Ellen Wiegand
SVP & CIO, VCU Health
Ellen Wiegand is SVP and CIO at VCU Health, a comprehensive academic health system with the largest safety-net hospital in the Commonwealth of Virginia. As CIO, Wiegand is charged with leveraging technology to preserve and restore the health for all people of Virginia and beyond. She is accountable for overall IT strategy, including all infrastructure, operations, applications, informatics, data and analytics.
Elmar Els
Enterprise Architect, Coca-Cola Beverages Africa
Elmar Els
Enterprise Architect, Coca-Cola Beverages Africa
Elmar Els is leading Coca-Cola Beverages Africa’s Enterprise Architecture practice and brings over 17 years of extensive experience in architecture-related positions across various industries. Known for his drive and proactive approach, he has been instrumental in shaping CCBA’s Enterprise Architecture. Els has expertise in multiple data projects and international ERP implementations, integrating diverse technologies with a focus on achieving future state architectures through reference architectures, roadmaps, and multi-year plans aligned with digital strategies.
Frank Sweeney
CIO, Arizona Department of Child Safety
Frank Sweeney
CIO, Arizona Department of Child Safety
Frank Sweeney is a distinguished executive with a notable career in driving innovation. In the early 1990s, he played a crucial role in developing one of the first Internet credit card authorization systems. His exceptional contributions at Andersen Consulting (now Accenture) earned him high acclaim, leading to the co-founding of a business process management company with Nortel Communications, which was valued at $20 million.
Gwen Bourque
CIO, Endeavor Health
Gwen Bourque
CIO, Endeavor Health
Gwen Bourque serves as the AVP of ITS and CIO at Saskatchewan Polytechnic. She has earned a Master of Interdisciplinary Studies specializing in Digital Transformation and Leadership, an associate’s degree in computer systems technology, and is certified as a PMP. Bourque has served in the Canadian Armed Forces spanning 32 years where she functions as an Army Reservist. Presently, she holds the position of Deputy Commander for the 3rd Canadian Division, headquartered in Alberta. Her dedication to her country has been recognized with an appointment to the Order of Military Merit by the Governor General of Canada, Her Excellency the Right Honorable Mary Simon. Bourque is an avid advocate and passionate about helping women in leadership roles.
Hector Molina
Vice Chancellor for Information Technology, CIO, Fayetteville State University
Hector Molina
Vice Chancellor for Information Technology, CIO, Fayetteville State University
Dr. Hector M. Molina is an accomplished technology leader with extensive experience in IT leadership, holding the position of Vice Chancellor for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer at Fayetteville State University. With advanced degrees in Information Technology, Business Administration, and Organizational Leadership, Dr. Molina has a proven track record of strategic IT management, governance, and stakeholder engagement. He has led diverse teams, managed significant budgets, and implemented robust technology infrastructures, ensuring cybersecurity and data privacy. Dr. Molina is also a dedicated educator and published author, contributing significantly to the field of IT governance and higher education.
Isaac Abbs
CIO, Pima Community College
Isaac Abbs
CIO, Pima Community College
Isaac Abbs serves as the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Pima Community College, in Tucson, Arizona. As the CIO, Abbs works with the college community to ensure that IT is providing a high level of satisfaction and value. He oversees the day-to-day activities and sets the strategic direction for the Information Technology department. Additionally, he is focused on leveraging innovative and forward-thinking technologies to improve business operations and reduce risk.
Jamie Giroux
CISSP, CISA, CRISC, SVP, Chief Information Security Officer, Platinum Equity
Jamie Giroux
CISSP, CISA, CRISC, SVP, Chief Information Security Officer, Platinum Equity
With over 25 years of experience in cybersecurity, Jamie Giroux embodies a blend of deep technical expertise and strategic leadership, propelling organizations towards a secure digital frontier. Giroux has a profound understanding of the human element intertwined with cybersecurity protocols, and this unique perspective has been instrumental in crafting security architectures that are not only technologically sound but also resonate with the organizational culture. A seasoned CISO, Giroux has been at the helm of multidisciplinary teams, driving a collaborative approach to problem-solving and ensuring seamless alignment between security initiatives and business objectives. Through active participation in industry forums, publications, and events, Giroux has contributed to the evolving discourse surrounding cybersecurity, sharing insights and learning from peers to propel the industry forward.
Jay Gittings
VP, Enterprise Architecture & Business Applications, Lighthouse Credit Union
Jay Gittings
VP, Enterprise Architecture & Business Applications, Lighthouse Credit Union
Jay Gittings’ career has spanned two decades in IT, delivering solutions to business problems across a range of industries. He has developed custom application solutions in education, insurance, marketing, employee benefits, agriculture, ecommerce and finance. In 2015, Gittings discovered the credit union movement. The movement’s mission and member focus resonated strongly and led to his transition into IT leadership, guiding teams on Software Development, API integrations and core banking functionality. Gittings now calls Lighthouse Credit Union home, championing initiatives to transform the end user experience and drive unique value streams that make a difference in members’ lives.
Jeff Kramer
VP Technology, Kason
Jeff Kramer
VP Technology, Kason
Jeff Kramer has been a business entrepreneur and technology leader for over 37 years, with proven success in the areas of business development and strategic planning to drive the use of information technology to enable businesses to reach their customers, markets, and core objectives. Kramer has developed and executed programs for a wide range of clients, including modern startups, telecommunication service providers, Software Service companies, and global Fortune 500 organizations. He was one of the founding partners at Syzygy Solutions, a bespoke consulting firm focused on enabling technology, data management, and cybersecurity, which merged with Aprio. Kramer is currently the VP Technology and Digital Factory at Kason, where as a key executive leads an agile team to empower the digital transformation of Kason into an Industry 4.0 leader.
Jeffrey Aguilar
Chief Information Security Officer, Los Angeles County
Jeffrey Aguilar
Chief Information Security Officer, Los Angeles County
As CISO of Los Angeles County, Jeffrey Aguilar is responsible for all aspects of information security, including information security governance, strategic direction, executive advisory, program maturity, and adherence to federal information security policy. With over 26 years of experience, Aguilar has served as a consultant to several Fortune 500 organizations providing an array of services ranging from advisory roles to executive leadership to recommendations of technical solutions. Aguilar holds industry certifications CISM, CRISC, CDPSE and earned his MBA from Pepperdine Graziadio Business School, where he is now an Adjunct Professor. He is an active member of several industry advisory boards including FBI Cyberwatch, Infragard, LA City CyberLabs, and Pepperdine CyRP program. He is a 2023 CISOs Connect C100 award winner, two-time Government Technology award winner.
Jim Purcell
Vice President and CIO, McWane
Jim Purcell
Vice President and CIO, McWane
Jim Purcell is Vice President and CIO at McWane, one of the largest privately owned companies in the U.S. Prior to joining McWane, he spent over three years as the Secretary of Technology and the state CIO for the State of Alabama. As a cabinet member to Governor Ivey, Purcell led the Office of Information Technology and its services in the State of Alabama. While there, he was awarded CIO of the Year in 2019 by the Alabama CIO Association as well as the State Executive of the Year by State Scoop Magazine. Prior career achievements include CTO for Brasfield & Gorrie, Director of Commercial Sales for NWN, Inc., and Manager of Solutions Architecture for VeriStor, Inc. Purcell’s education includes a BBA in Accounting from Georgia State University.
Jonathan Fozard
AVP & CIO, Florida State University (FSU)
Jonathan Fozard
AVP & CIO, Florida State University (FSU)
With more than two decades’ experience in higher education leadership, Jonathan currently leads a team of over 750 IT professionals at FSU who support academic, research, communication, security, and administrative computing functions across Florida and at other international locations. Jonathan also manages the Florida Northwest Regional Data Center, Florida Virtual Campus, and the State Data Center of Florida. Recently, he was confirmed by the Florida Senate for a four-year term on the Technology Modernization Council for the Governor, which aims to advance technology and AI throughout the state.
Kamal Mohanty
Sr. VP of IT, Miller Zell
Kamal Mohanty
Sr. VP of IT, Miller Zell
Kamal Mohanty is an accomplished IT executive with over 20 years of progressive leadership experience, driving strategic technology initiatives and business transformation. As Sr. Vice President of IT at Miller Zell, Mohanty is responsible for orchestrating the seamless operation of the IT organization, harmonizing it with the broader business objectives.
Ken Piddington
VP & CIO, US Silica
Ken Piddington
VP & CIO, US Silica
Ken Piddington is the Vice President and CIO at U.S. Silica. He previously served as CIO for multiple companies, where he contributed to their tremendous growth and transformation. Piddington has received the Houston CIO of the Year Orbie award, named a Computerworld Premier 100 Technology leader, is a CIO100 Award winner, and has twice been recognized as an InformationWeek 500 Top Technology Innovator.
Kevin Gray
Chief Technology Officer, Southern California Regional Rail Authority
Kevin Gray
Chief Technology Officer, Southern California Regional Rail Authority
Kevin Gray is a multiple award-winning CIO whose vision and leadership helped transform multiple technology organizations and deliver world-class business satisfaction. He recently joined the Southern California Regional Rail Authority aka Metrolink as CTO.
Kimberly Jones
VP of Information Technology Services and CIO, Morehouse College
Kimberly Jones
VP of Information Technology Services and CIO, Morehouse College
Kimberley Jones, PhD is the Vice President for Information Technology Service and Chief Information Officer at Morehouse College since 2018, and is currently the Chair of the Atlanta University Consortium (AUC) CIO Council. With nearly two decades of experience in higher education IT, she has saved Morehouse nearly $1 million through strategic contract negotiations and increased network uptime to 99.9%. Jones holds a PhD in Instructional Technology Education from Mississippi State University. She is a member of several professional organizations, including the Associated Colleges of the South, the Consortium of Liberal Arts Colleges (CLAC-CIOS), the Microsoft Campus Advisory Board, the OculusIT IT Advisory Board, and a mentor for the Next Leaders Fellowship (NLF).
Lisa Gibson
President & Founder, Ignite Communications
Lisa Gibson
President & Founder, Ignite Communications
Lisa Gibson is the President & Founder of Ignite Communications. She is an award-winning and well-respected communications executive and speaker with 30 years of experience working for some of the world’s largest brands. Prior to starting her consulting company, Gibson was the Chief of Staff and Head of Communications for Microsoft Canada. Gibson has a strong reputation for solving complex business problems through strategic communications and delivering best-in-class communication programs. She regularly speaks about AI & Comms, personal branding and women in STEM, and is a member of two boards: The Shine Foundation and QueerTech.
Maurice A. Ferrell
PhD, VP of Technology and CIO for the University of North Carolina System Office, University of North Carolina
Maurice A. Ferrell
PhD, VP of Technology and CIO for the University of North Carolina System Office, University of North Carolina
Before joining the UNC System Office, Maurice Ferrell served as the Associate Dean for Information Management. He also served as an adjunct professor teaching leadership in the Master of Public Administration course. Ferrell was the first CIO for the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research in Danville, VA. His efforts were recognized by the Governor at the Commonwealth of Virginia Innovative Technology Symposium (COVITS) in 2004 for Technology Innovation in Higher Education. He also served as principal investigator for a National Science Foundation grant that focused on providing technology experiences for high school students. Ferrell earned a PhD from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, an MBA from Liberty University, a BBA from Averett University, and an associate degree in information technology from Danville Community College.
Michelle Joliat
Senior Managing Director, Product and Delivery, Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan
Michelle Joliat
Senior Managing Director, Product and Delivery, Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan
Michelle Joliat is the Senior Managing Director, Product and Delivery, at Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan, one of Canada’s largest institutional investors with over $245 billion in net assets. In 2021, she led the restructuring of their Technology organization to a product-based operating model, enabling the Technology teams to be more responsive to the needs of internal business partners.
Mikel Costello
Strategic Planning & Design Manager, Washington Technology Services
Mikel Costello
Strategic Planning & Design Manager, Washington Technology Services
Mikel Costello is the Strategic Planning & Design Manager based in Sarasota, FL. He oversees solution architecture, systems engineering, and capacity management services. Costello’s expertise in enterprise architecture, computing infrastructure, and security allows him to harmonize and integrate diverse technologies into comprehensive design solutions. He is particularly proud of his role as an innovator pioneering Washington State’s zero trust blueprint and architecting the state’s “Highway to the Clouds,” which bridges on-premise, remote, and cloud-based resources. Costello is a retired Army Signal Warrant Officer.
Mirian S. Avalos
General Manager of IT, Los Angeles County Internal Services Department
Mirian S. Avalos
General Manager of IT, Los Angeles County Internal Services Department
In 2023, Mirian S. Avalos became the first Latina to be appointed General Manager of Information Technology with the Los Angeles County Internal Services Department. She is responsible for directing application development, network activities, and data center operations for one of the largest local government agencies in the nation.
Neville Richardson
CIO, Gallagher Group Limited
Neville Richardson
CIO, Gallagher Group Limited
For six years, Neville has worked as CIO for New Zealand’s largest 100% privately owned technology businesses, which deliver to the Animal Management and Security sectors worldwide. Neville has a proven track record in corporate environments, with measurable success and innovation across the entire business value chain, providing executive oversight and leadership in order to bring organizations into the digital era. He is a keen evangelist on Digital Dexterity, having realized that technology and process are not the only focus for IT professionals. Neville is regularly recognized as one of New Zealand’s top 50 CIOs, for his business leadership, technology evangelism, and ability to engineer change over a 30-year career in the industry.
Oren Rosen
CEO, eProc Solutions
Oren Rosen
CEO, eProc Solutions
Oren Rosen is a seasoned technology entrepreneur with an expansive career that began in 1990, marking the start of a lifelong pursuit of innovation in the IT sector. Throughout his career, Rosen has played a vital role in developing multiple companies. He leveraged this extensive experience to establish eProc Solutions, where he continues to drive forward advancements in IT support. As the CEO of eProc Solutions, Rosen has been pioneering the development of the eProc Control Center, aiming to revolutionize IT team operations and boost organizational productivity. His vision has consistently focused on enhancing the efficiency of IT services. Rosen’s commitment to eProc Solutions embodies his dedication to empowering IT departments, ensuring they can deliver swift and effective support essential for the success of modern enterprises.
Paula Wagner
CIO, Mansfield Energy
Paula Wagner
CIO, Mansfield Energy
As CIO of Mansfield Energy, Paula Wagner oversees the comprehensive technology organization with a holistic management approach, ensuring all organizational goals are met. She integrates secure, compliant, and cost-effective IT operations with financial management, governance, risk, and cybersecurity. Renowned for transforming technology into business value and fostering innovation, Wagner inspires teams to excel. Her career reflects a steadfast commitment to excellence, driving innovation and growth. Leading diverse teams in software development, cybersecurity, infrastructure, product management, and project management, Wagner aligns IT strategies with business objectives, driving technological, business, and commercial advancements at Mansfield Energy.
Priscilla Tsang
Deputy CISO, New York MTA
Priscilla Tsang
Deputy CISO, New York MTA
Priscilla Tsang is the Deputy CISO of Cybersecurity Risk, Governance and Compliance for the State of New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). As a principal direct report to the CISO, she drives the overall cybersecurity strategy and key initiatives across the MTA and with external government agencies and other organizations.
R.C. Woodson
SVP & CIO, Bristol Bay Native Corporation
R.C. Woodson
SVP & CIO, Bristol Bay Native Corporation
R.C. Woodson has over 35 years of experience in the IT industry, with over 25 years of senior executive experience in providing technology solutions to organizations. Currently, he is responsible for establishing, planning, and administering the overall Information Technology strategy, policies, and goals for Bristol Bay Native Corporation (BBNC).
Rob Croston
Senior Director, IT Strategy and Business Office (Chief of Staff), Mark Anthony Group
Rob Croston
Senior Director, IT Strategy and Business Office (Chief of Staff), Mark Anthony Group
Rob Croston is an accomplished IT executive with over two decades of experience in strategic leadership, IT transformation, and program management. He currently serves as the Senior Director of IT Strategy and Business Office at Mark Anthony Group. Previously, Croston held leadership roles at Ritchie Bros, including Director of Product Management for Team Member Experience and Director of the Enterprise Project Management Office.
Ron Solomon
CIO, Baton Rouge Community College
Ron Solomon
CIO, Baton Rouge Community College
Ronald Solomon, CIO at Baton Rouge Community College, has over 25 years of extensive IT experience. His proficiency in project management, databases, networks, and systems has been refined through his expertise in various other industries, such as oil and gas and healthcare.
Sai Ravichandran
Director of IT, The Morton Arboretum
Sai Ravichandran
Director of IT, The Morton Arboretum
Sai Ravichandran is an information technology executive with experience in not for profit and academic environments for over 20 years. She is currently the Director of Information Technology at the Morton Arboretum. She directs the digital and technology strategy and is responsible for enterprise systems and applications, data management, information security, communication, and collaboration systems infrastructure. Before the Arboretum, she worked at Western Michigan University and the Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center. She holds a Bachelor's and Master's in Electrical Engineering from Anna University, India, and a Master's in Computer Engineering from Western Michigan University.
Sandra Jeffries-Perry
Director and CIO, Shelby County Government
Sandra Jeffries-Perry
Director and CIO, Shelby County Government
Sandra Jeffries-Perry is the Chief Information Officer and Director for Shelby County Government, the first African American Female to hold this position. She is a thought leader with 20+ years of experience in the Information Technology industry. Jeffries-Perry provides strategic leadership to the Information Technology Services Division, directing technology services for Shelby County Government. Her numerous technology and business certifications and accolades, including being named Memphis’ Public Sector CIO of the Year and, most recently, Tennessee Public Sector CIO of the Year, reflect her unwavering commitment to her work.
Scott West
CIO, WA Department of Ecology
Scott West
CIO, WA Department of Ecology
Scott West is a seasoned technology expert and has served the State of Washington in a variety of roles. West brings considerable expertise in operations, business development, and strategic planning. He is an innovative strategist transforming ideas into long-term plans with the drive to deliver on the most demanding projects. West has built his own technology companies and served on the advisory board of multiple start-ups. He is the chair of the Information Professional Management Association and a guest instructor at UW. When West is not playing with new technology, he spends his time being creative. He is a published horror author with two new books coming to print this year and is currently working on a movie script.
Sheryl Peter-Kirton
Chief, Digital Programming, Bank of Barbados
Sheryl Peter-Kirton
Chief, Digital Programming, Bank of Barbados
Sheryl Peter-Kirton has been the Chief, Digital Programming with the Digital Transformation Unit (DTU) of the Governor’s Office since 2020 and a member of the Bank’s Management Team since 2009. She leads the team responsible for streamlining the Bank’s enterprise-wide digital transformation initiatives.
Stacey-Ann Farquharson
Head of HR Strategy, Bank of Jamaica
Stacey-Ann Farquharson
Head of HR Strategy, Bank of Jamaica
Stacey-Ann Farquharson is a senior human resource practitioner with over 20 years’ experience in the field. She currently oversees the Bank of Jamaica’s organizational development and HR planning functions. She has led key strategic projects for the Bank, including revamping the compensation philosophy and program, revising the High-Level Organization Structure, and introducing a Policy Governance Framework to support enhance policy management.
Stefanos Makris
IT Infrastructure, Operations, and Security Leader, Emco Corporation
Stefanos Makris
IT Infrastructure, Operations, and Security Leader, Emco Corporation
Over his 30-year career within information technology, Makris has held senior leadership roles within national and global organizations including Emco Corporation, Cineplex Digital Media, Sandvine Inc., Comcast Corporation, and Ontario Power Generation. Over this time, he has been fortunate to have had diverse roles developing, delivering, securing, and operating technology solutions and services critical to the business success of the external and internal customers he services.
Steve Hodges
Chief Information Security Officer, State of Georgia
Steve Hodges
Chief Information Security Officer, State of Georgia
Steve Hodges serves as the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for the State of Georgia, where he leads the charge in safeguarding critical digital assets and infrastructure against cyber threats. With a career spanning more than three decades in information technology and cybersecurity, Hodges brings significant experience and expertise to his role. Hodges has held various leadership roles in both the public and private sectors, honing his skills in risk management, compliance, and incident response. Prior to becoming the State CISO, he served as the Disclosure Officer and senior IT Security Manager for the Department of Revenue. Early in his career, Hodges worked with a talented group of people to develop one of the first commercially marketed disk encryption and access control systems for early IBM-compatible computers.
Terrence Panchoo
Head of Information Technology, Proman
Terrence Panchoo
Head of Information Technology, Proman
Terrence Panchoo is a technologist at heart whose focus is on providing innovative, cost-effective solutions that match business requirements. He has spent the last 22+ years within the Energy and Petrochemical sectors in varying senior roles, which have allowed for the development of a high level of diversity and skill.
Tim Moody
Chief Technology Officer, City of Savannah
Tim Moody
Chief Technology Officer, City of Savannah
Tim Moody has served as the Chief Technology Officer for the City of Savannah since February 2020. Previously, he was Chief Information Officer at several universities within the University System of Georgia during his 10-year career in higher education. Moody began his IT career in 1995 in the private sector, working in publishing and retail. His diverse experience across private and public sectors gives him a unique perspective on the role of technology. Having worked in various IT positions, from Network Administrator to C-level roles, Moody is driven by a passion for delivering excellent customer experiences.
Tom O’Connor
VP of Technology Operations, SASCU Credit Union
Tom O’Connor
VP of Technology Operations, SASCU Credit Union
Tom O’Connor is the VP of Technology Operations at SASCU Credit Union in British Columbia, Canada. O’Connor has over 20 years of international experience in senior IT roles across education, logistics, professional services, and financial services. He is passionate about leading-edge technology and focuses on empowering ‘citizen developers’ to leverage their business insights for creating competitive advantages (and doing pretty cool stuff at the same time).
Torri Martin
CIO, Atlanta Housing
Torri Martin
CIO, Atlanta Housing
Torri Martin is the Chief Information Officer for Atlanta Housing. He previously led the Office of Financial Systems Services for the City of Atlanta and served as Senior Vice President and CIO for WMATA, overseeing a $2.4B transit authority.
Vimal Vyas
CDME, VP of Data, Security and Digital Innovation, Visit Raleighs
Vimal Vyas
CDME, VP of Data, Security and Digital Innovation, Visit Raleighs
Vimal Vyas is Vice President of Data, Security and Digital Innovation for the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau. As digital innovation VP, he is responsible for the Bureau’s integrated digital efforts, including digital product (web/mobile) development, data integration, cloud-based software solutions, infrastructure, content/Internet marketing technologies, artificial intelligence, and business intelligence. In 2023, Vyas earned Destinations International’s Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME) credential, which signals the destination marketing industry’s highest educational achievement. He currently serves as Co-Chair for Destinations International’s Marketing Professional Task Force and is a member of the Business Operations Professionals Task Force and Social Inclusion Committee.
Wally Wilinsky
CIO, Leonardo DRS
Wally Wilinsky
CIO, Leonardo DRS
Wally leads the Information Technology organization of Leonardo DRS, providing services to all domestic LDRS locations with oversight of Canada and Israel locations. Wally has 30+ years of experience in DoD business and has held technical and leadership positions in R&D, Engineering, Manufacturing Planning, Supply Chain as well as Information Technology.
Aaron Shum
Vice President, Research & Advisory, Security & Privacy, Info-Tech
Aaron Shum
Vice President, Research & Advisory, Security & Privacy, Info-Tech
With 25+ years of experience across IT, InfoSec, and Data Privacy, Aaron currently leads the development efforts and advisory delivery of Info-Tech’s IT research, with a specific focus on key areas such as Exponential IT, security & privacy, infrastructure & operations, and IT workforce development programs. Before joining Info-Tech, Aaron led the GDPR compliance efforts of a large multinational enterprise with over 80 locations spanning 24 countries. Prior to that, Aaron supported the growth of a multinational technology integration company as its global head of IT and InfoSec.
Adriana Urtasun
Senior Director, Info-Tech
Adriana Urtasun
Senior Director, Info-Tech
Adriana Urtasun is a seasoned executive with a robust background in business and technology. She works as a Senior Director helping CIOs transform IT departments and improve IT performance. Urtasun will share her journey from working in technology and IT into a very different role of oversight and governance: a Board Director. She will share the many routes one can take to get a board role and the importance of cybersecurity and the critical role the technology function now plays in boardrooms. Urtasun sits on a variety of boards as a corporate director, and her knowledge of the ins and outs of board work make her an invaluable resource for understanding these dynamics.
Alex Ciraco
Principal Advisory Director, Applications, Info-Tech
Alex Ciraco
Principal Advisory Director, Applications, Info-Tech
Alex is a seasoned software leader with 35 years of experience developing complex systems in a wide variety of industries and applications. He has worked for everything from large multinational organizations to small start-ups and has exposure to both private and public sectors. A fervent advocate for Agile methodologies, Alex has championed Agile principles in software development long before they became mainstream. He sees the adoption of a true Agile mindset as the most potent cure for the dysfunction, inefficiencies, and waste that plague most organizations. His greatest sense of career satisfaction comes from helping organizations to effect positive change through Agile transformation.
Alia Mendonsa
Executive Counselor, Global Services, Info-Tech
Alia Mendonsa
Executive Counselor, Global Services, Info-Tech
Alia has worked with public sector organizations for over 25 years, supporting the development and execution of their digital strategies. She has also consulted extensively with technology and service providers to refine their product development and go-to-market strategies. As an Executive Counselor at Info-Tech, Mendonsa helps leaders establish digital vision and incorporate emerging technologies to execute a digital strategy that reimagines citizen service delivery models and delivers on the promise of Exponential IT. She supports clients with critical initiatives such as enterprise application modernization and digital transformation and cultivates exceptional leadership among CxOs and their teams.
Allen Larsen
CIO, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department
Allen Larsen
CIO, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department
Allen Larsen is the Commander of the Digital Investigations Bureau with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD), where he has served for the past 18 years. Commander Larsen oversees LVMPD’s Digital Forensics Lab, Cyber Crime Unit, Systems Administration Unit and Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
Allison Straker
Advisory Director, Info-Tech
Allison Straker
Advisory Director, Info-Tech
Allison Straker is passionate about helping IT leaders and executives to better connect IT and business, something she leans on when helping Info-Tech members with business relationship management, organizational design, experience design, and governance. Allison has two decades of experience aligning business and IT through relationship management, user experience, business analysis, and consulting roles. With an Honours Bachelor of Science degree in Human-Computer Interaction from the University of Toronto, she believes an understanding of people is critical as we implement technology in our world.
Altaz Valani
Principal Advisory Director, Data & Analytics, Info-Tech
Altaz Valani
Principal Advisory Director, Data & Analytics, Info-Tech
Prior to joining Info-Tech, Altaz was Director of Insights Research at Security Compass, where he was a global collaborator and evangelist for secure software development. He has been a Senior Manager at KPMG and held various positions working alongside senior stakeholders to drive business value through technology. Altaz has also served as Vice Chair of the Security Forum at The Open Group and as a Board Member of OASIS. Altaz has been recognized for his efforts through awards, published articles, academic papers, and conference presentations.
Amanda Mathieson
Principal Research Director, CIO, Info-Tech
Amanda Mathieson
Principal Research Director, CIO, Info-Tech
Amanda covers key topics in leadership development, employee engagement, and talent management. A skilled facilitator, researcher, and advisor, Amanda brings over 20 years of experience working in various industries globally to effectively design and execute Learning and Talent Management Strategies. Amanda is passionate about identifying and developing potential talent as well as ensuring leader success as they transition into more strategic senior roles. She takes a practical, experiential approach to people and leadership development grounded in adult learning methodologies and leadership theory. Amanda received her Master of Arts, Leadership & Organization Development from Feilding Graduate University.
Andrew Johnson
Strategic Planning & Design Manager, WaTech (Washington Technology Services)
Andrew Johnson
Strategic Planning & Design Manager, WaTech (Washington Technology Services)
Andrew Johnson is a Solutions Architect based in Olympia, WA. He is responsible for the State’s adoption of SD-WAN technology and interconnecting state government with cloud-based resources and external business partners. Johnson spearheaded the development of the state’s SD-WAN strategy, oversaw proof of concept efforts, and designed solutions that have enabled the state government to leverage cutting-edge technology in serving the residents of Washington State. He serves as the Principal Architect overseeing the state’s adoption of zero trust, Secure Access Service Edge (SASE), and Secure Service Edge (SSE). Johnson is a retired Army Signal Warrant Officer.
Andrew Kum-Seun
Research Director, Info-Tech
Andrew Kum-Seun
Research Director, Info-Tech
As a Research Director at Info-Tech, Andrew Kum-Seun covers key topics related to application roadmaps, solution delivery space, which includes solution delivery lifecycle (SDLC), business process automation, and business-managed applications. Kum-Seun provides IT leaders and development managers with the guidance, analysis, and various industry perspectives they need to conceptualize and execute strategies and plans for process and tooling implementation, optimization, and management.
Andrew Sharp
Research Director, Infrastructure & Operations, Info-Tech
Andrew Sharp
Research Director, Infrastructure & Operations, Info-Tech
As Research Director in the Security, Privacy, Infrastructure & Operations Practice, Andrew contributes to Info-Tech’s research on IT operations, infrastructure, artificial intelligence, governance, and security. He has worked with IT professionals around the world to build practical and structured approaches to solve complex problems and elevate the value they deliver to their organizations. Andrew holds a BA in Economics from the University of Toronto and a Master of Library & Information Science from the University of Western Ontario.
Andy Neill
Associate Vice President, Global Services, Info-Tech
Andy Neill
Associate Vice President, Global Services, Info-Tech
Andy has over 20 years of experience leading the Data and Enterprise Architecture practices at organizations including Loblaw Companies, Shoppers Drug Mart, and 360 Insights in Canada, as well as Siemens consultancy, BBC, Ordnance Survey, National Health Service, and Houses of Parliament and Commons in the UK. Andy founded Info-Tech’s Technical Counselor program, which provides deep advisory and mentoring experiences for Info-Tech members. During his previous Info-Tech role, he built, led, and shaped the Data and Enterprise Architecture research and advisory division into the world-class team it is today. Andy is a frequently published author of data-related content in numerous publications.
Angela Diop
Executive Counselor, Info-Tech
Angela Diop
Executive Counselor, Info-Tech
As an Executive Counselor at Info-Tech, Angela Diop provides advisory and counseling services to healthcare technology leaders seeking to transform their organizations with technology. She is a former CIO and Security Officer with 25+ years of healthcare experience, and has led IT organizations in developing strategies, roadmaps, implementing infrastructure and processes to optimize and secure healthcare organizations. Diop excels at creating a culture where business and IT partner to leverage technology to improve patient care and organizational health. She has a BS in Systems Engineering and Design from University of Illinois and a Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine from Bastyr University.
Ann Mengelson-Clark
Chief Technology Officer, Kuvare
Ann Mengelson-Clark
Chief Technology Officer, Kuvare
Ann Mengelson-Clark leads the technology platform for the domestic companies of Kuvare and has over 25 years of experience in the life and annuity industry. Prior to joining the team at the Kuvare platform level, she served as Corporate Technology Officer for Guaranty Corporation. Mengelson-Clark holds BS and MS degrees from Louisiana State University. Headquartered in Chicago, IL, Kuvare is a technology-enabled financial services platform whose core business areas include retail annuity and life insurance, institutional markets, investment management, and bespoke insurance solutions. The family of Kuvare companies includes Lincoln Benefit Life Company, Guaranty Income Life Insurance Company, United Life Insurance Company, Kuvare Life Re, and Ignite Partners.
Anubhav Sharma
Research Director, Info-Tech
Anubhav Sharma
Research Director, Info-Tech
Anubhav Sharma is a globally experienced transformation strategy and execution leader who has led large-scale transformation mandates in North America, Europe and Asia, including defining digital strategies for leading banks and spearheading an organization-wide transformation project for a global logistics pioneer across ten countries. In 2023, he was recognized as a “Top 50 Digital Innovator in Banking.” At Info-Tech, Sharma partners with C-level executives in creating their IT Strategy, Innovation, M&A, Risk, and Transformation plans through insightful research and advisory. Sharma holds an MBA in Business strategy from HEC Paris, an MBA in Finance from IIT-Delhi, and a bachelor’s in engineering.
Archana Nirad
CIO, BCFSA
Archana Nirad
CIO, BCFSA
Archana Nirad serves as the Chief Information Officer for BCFSA. Nirad is responsible for leading enterprise-wide digital transformations and crafting strategic IT roadmaps aligning technology initiatives with business goals. Prior to joining BCFSA, Nirad held various roles in project and program governance, project management, business intelligence, and business analysis across global, private, and public sectors. She has successfully established new capabilities, including the creation of project management offices and process optimization units within various organizations. Nirad enjoys reading and travelling in her personal time.
Ari Glaizel
Practice Lead, Info-Tech
Ari Glaizel
Practice Lead, Info-Tech
Ari Glaizel is a Practice Lead at Info-Tech, overseeing Applications Delivery and Data/Analytics Research. He has held multiple roles across product development, management, and strategy prior to Info-Tech. Throughout his career, Glaizel has adhered to three key principles: a product-first mindset, a strong customer focus on value realization, and a belief in the importance of teamwork for scaling success. He has led product teams for software and SaaS organizations, establishing robust practices that enabled growth and customer satisfaction. Glaizel holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the University of Waterloo.
Ashwin Kalkar
Practice Lead, Info-Tech
Ashwin Kalkar
Practice Lead, Info-Tech
Ashwin Kalkar is the Practice Lead for Info-Tech’s IT Financial Management practice, leading a team of Research Directors and Analysts to deliver the IT Spend and Staffing Benchmarking service. With a proven track record in transformative initiatives, Kalkar launched Cars24 in Thailand and was an Engagement Manager at McKinsey & Company, leading client engagements across various industries. His focus has been on driving business impact and operational efficiency.
Asia Nebesnaia
Workshop Director, Applications, Info-Tech
Asia Nebesnaia
Workshop Director, Applications, Info-Tech
Asia is focused on AI/ML, PPM, Agile, Applications, CIO, and Leadership Practices. She is a seasoned consultant and advisor helping organizations connect strategy, innovation, and technology to desired business outcomes. Asia brings to the table over a decade of experience in various global organizations across different industries, from clinical to professional services, manufacturing, automotive, financial services, and agriculture. Asia supports Info-Tech members by providing value-packed workshop experiences infused with insightful recommendations and real-world examples.
Austin Wagar
Senior Advisory Analyst, AI Research, Info-Tech
Austin Wagar
Senior Advisory Analyst, AI Research, Info-Tech
Austin is on the AI Research Team at Info-Tech. His primary focus for 2024 has been assisting in the development of Info-Tech’s AI Marketplace – an ongoing research initiative that provides high-quality coverage of leading AI vendors and their solutions. A certified business analyst, Austin has worked with Info-Tech members across industries, assisting with managing Info-Tech’s software selection services. He has led multiple webinars and authored/modernized numerous pieces of research across a wide range of topics, including Customer Experience and Omnichannel Commerce.
Ben Abrishami-Shirazi
Enterprise Architecture Counselor, Info-Tech
Ben Abrishami-Shirazi
Enterprise Architecture Counselor, Info-Tech
Ben Abrishami-Shirazi, an Enterprise Architecture Counselor at Info-Tech, has 25+ years of experience in IT, primarily in the financial and aviation sectors. He has led initiatives in enterprise solution design, AI applications, and data analytics. He has held executive roles focused on digital transformation and IT service management. At Info-Tech, Abrishami-Shirazi helps organizations elevate their enterprise architecture practices.
Ben Dickie
Research Director, Info-Tech
Ben Dickie
Research Director, Info-Tech
Ben Dickie is a Research Director at Info-Tech, specializing in customer experience management, CRM platforms, and digital marketing. He has developed frameworks to help IT and business leaders create exceptional customer experiences. Dickie’s work spans enterprise collaboration, CRM strategy, and social media management. He has collaborated extensively with clients and vendors to enable successful customer interaction tools and strategies.
Ben Linares
Product Manager, FinOps & Cost Optimization, Starbucks
Ben Linares
Product Manager, FinOps & Cost Optimization, Starbucks
Benjamin Linares is an award-winning technologist and FinOps pioneer with a strong track record in digital content marketing, product strategy, and leadership. With over two decades of experience, he excels in transforming operational chaos into structured efficiency, driving revenue growth, and delivering exceptional business value. Known for his strategic, analytical approach, Linares is adept at leading innovative projects and building resilient teams across various industries.
Benedict Chang
Advisory Director, Infrastructure and Operations Practice, Info-Tech
Benedict Chang
Advisory Director, Infrastructure and Operations Practice, Info-Tech
Benedict Chang is an Advisory Director at Info-Tech, with expertise in IT Service Management, End User Computing, and Automation. Over the last five years, he has helped organizations implement right-sized processes and select vendors. He has contributed to multiple Info-Tech publications and delivered various webinars and workshops in his areas of coverage.
Bill Wong
AI Research Fellow, Info-Tech
Bill Wong
AI Research Fellow, Info-Tech
Bill Wong is an AI Research Fellow at Info-Tech Research Group, where he leads research focused on Generative AI, AI Strategy, Responsible AI, and AI regulations and legislation. He has led and guided hundreds of strategic AI initiatives worldwide, collaborating with C-level executives, data scientists, and data engineers. Prior to joining Info-Tech, Wong was the AI and Data Analytics Practice Leader at Dell Technologies for five years. He also held consulting, development, product management, and executive roles at Microsoft, Oracle, and IBM. Wong has authored numerous articles, whitepapers, books, and was a contributing author for a scientific paper on using deep learning algorithms to accelerate drug discovery. He is a frequent conference speaker, and his insights have been featured in such outlets as InformationWeek, CIO Dive, TechTarget, and the Harvard Business Review.
Bob Leek
CIO, Clark County, Nevada
Bob Leek
CIO, Clark County, Nevada
Bob Leek is Chief Information Officer for Clark County, Nevada, supporting over 2.4M residents, 70K businesses, and over 43M visitors to Las Vegas and surrounding areas every year. He has over 25 years of leadership experience, including almost 20 years in information technology disciplines. Before joining Clark County, Leek worked in public sector county government, both human and pet health care in non-profit organizations, and commercial online retail services. His experience includes leadership roles in retail operations, corporate financial reporting, international operations, logistics management, and fostering inclusion and equity.
Bob Smock
Technical Counselor, Security and Risk Management, Info-Tech
Bob Smock
Technical Counselor, Security and Risk Management, Info-Tech
Located in Houston, Texas, Bob Smock is a senior cybersecurity advisor and consultant with a career of more than 40 years. His experience includes senior leadership as well as operational roles, including CISO for the NASA Space Shuttle Program and as a global security consulting practice lead. Smock has been personally involved in conducting more than 2,000 operational security program evaluations. Smock holds CISSP, CISM, and PMP professional certifications, with degrees in Computer Science and Electronics Engineering from Texas A&M University. He is a former US Marine, a graduate of the US Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, and an adjunct professor of cybersecurity at the University of Houston.
Bob Wilson
Cybersecurity Advisor, Security & Privacy, Info-Tech
Bob Wilson
Cybersecurity Advisor, Security & Privacy, Info-Tech
Bob Wilson is a Cybersecurity Advisor with Info-Tech’s Cybersecurity Workforce Development Program. He has 25 years of combined IT experience, with 20 years focused on information security and cybersecurity. Before joining the Cybersecurity Workforce Development program, Bob was a Research Director with Info-Tech, where he leveraged his IT security experience to inform his research into security challenges and to provide advisory services to Info-Tech members. Prior to Info-Tech, Bob served as the Technology Security Officer for the University of Southern Mississippi, where he was responsible for leading and maintaining the university’s Information Security program. Bob holds a CISSP and a GCIH.
Brent Messer
Executive Counselor, Info-Tech
Brent Messer
Executive Counselor, Info-Tech
Brent Messer is an award-winning thought leader, best-selling author, and international speaker on the world of leadership, broadband, Smart Cities, Agile, IoT, digital transformation, and innovation in the public sector. He was named to State Scoop’s Golden Gov: City Executive of the Year in 2020 and has been recognized as one of the most influential CIOs in North America and one of the most successful government innovators in the world. Messer has worked in Information Technology for over 25 years and spent eight years as CIO for the City of Chattanooga. He transformed the city into an agile and innovative civic tech powerhouse, recognized the world over as one of the most innovative cities in the United States and known as the “Gig City” for its 25-gigabit municipally owned broadband network.
Brian Clark
Director, Consulting, Info-Tech
Brian Clark
Director, Consulting, Info-Tech
Brian Clark is a seasoned IT executive with over 25 years of experience in security and digital transformation. As a former CTO and CISO, he has successfully driven key initiatives across multiple sectors. Clark’s expertise includes network engineering, information security, software development, and infrastructure automation. Recently, he has specialized in AI development and prompt engineering, creating innovative solutions tailored to clients’ unique needs. Currently, he leverages his extensive experience at Info-Tech, guiding clients in maturing their security programs and evaluating the adoption of AI technologies into their business processes.
Brian Jackson
Principal Research Director, CIO, Info-Tech
Brian Jackson
Principal Research Director, CIO, Info-Tech
After more than a decade as a technology and science journalist, Brian is focused on leading-edge trends and organizational best practices in innovation. He developed Info-Tech’s annual Tech Trends report, its flagship publication. Brian also provides support with executive leadership strategy and digital strategy. He holds a Certification in Emerging Technologies from ISACA and is a certified foresight practitioner via the Copenhagen Institute for Futures Studies. He writes columns for the Forbes Technology Council and Spiceworks Insights. Brian holds a Bachelor of Journalism from Carleton University. He is regularly featured as a technology expert by media, including CIO.com, CIO Dive, and Techopedia.
Brian Mulcahey
EVP, CIO, Sunflower Bank
Brian Mulcahey
EVP, CIO, Sunflower Bank
Brian Mulcahey serves as Executive Vice President, Chief Information Officer for Sunflower Bank, N.A. Prior, he has held technology leadership roles at Chemical Bank, Capitol Bancorp Ltd, Eastern Michigan University, WebMD, Inc., and Domino’s Pizza, Inc. At Sunflower, Mulcahey is responsible for leading the IT, IT Risk Mgmt & IS, Business Relationship, and Enterprise Project Management functions. He is also currently leading the integration of Homestreet Bank into Sunflower, which will roughly double the size of the organization. Mulcahey received a B.A. in Computer Science and French Language and Literature from Eastern Michigan University. He resides in Michigan with his family.
Brittany Lutes, MSc.
Research Director, CIO Practice, Info-Tech
Brittany Lutes, MSc.
Research Director, CIO Practice, Info-Tech
Brittany Lutes is a Research Director in the CIO Practice at Info-Tech Research Group. She works alongside IT executives and functional IT leaders to create visual representations of how their IT organization will achieve their strategic goals with an IT Operating Model and Organizational Structure. Her insights have appeared in various industry outlets, including CIO, InformationWeek, and Technology Magazine. Lutes’ passion for research has led her to spend a decade exploring social and organizational constructs. With a Master of Science from the University of Guelph in Business and Economics, her belief is to always have a people-oriented lens within the organization. Lutes has previously worked for public, non-profit, and financial organizations and continues to be an educator and develop her knowledge in Organizational Design.
C. Fara Francis
Global CIO, Center for Creative Leadership (CLL)
C. Fara Francis
Global CIO, Center for Creative Leadership (CLL)
C. Fara Francis, Global CIO at the Center for Creative Leadership, leverages her expertise in technology and leadership to advance the organization’s mission. Her prior roles include CIO at ASCD and AGC of America and Manager/Technology Consultant at Grant Thornton, LLP and Broadpoint Technologies. Francis holds an Executive Leadership Certificate from MIT, an MBA in Finance from Marymount University and is PMP certified. She serves on the board of the Society for Information Management (SIM) Capital Area Chapter and as an advisory member for the SIM National Chapter Advisory Board. Francis is passionate about inspiring others to achieve their goals.
Carlene McCubbin
AVP, CIO Research, Info-Tech
Carlene McCubbin
AVP, CIO Research, Info-Tech
A skilled facilitator, researcher, and advisor, Carlene covers key topics in strategy, transformation, and leadership. She has worked with hundreds of clients across various public and private sectors to effectively design and execute IT organizational changes. Carlene is passionate about workforce development and the interconnectedness of employee, digital, and service experiences as foundational elements for successful leadership and business growth. In her current role, she leads the research agenda and oversees the development of new research and products. Carlene received her Master of Communications Management from McGill University, where she studied development of internal and external communications, government relations, and change management.
Carrie Ann Williamson
Director of Technology, Town of Whitby
Carrie Ann Williamson
Director of Technology, Town of Whitby
Carrie Ann Williamson has over 20 years’ experience in public sector and is currently the Director of Technology and Innovation Services at the Town of Whitby. Williamson is deeply passionate about how technology can enable people and processes, driving efficiency and innovation in employee and citizen experiences. An accredited project manager, business relationship manager, and change management professional, she is always striving to foster growth and improvement within her teams and the organizations she serves.
Chris Pailma
Chief Data Officer, Los Angeles County
Chris Pailma
Chief Data Officer, Los Angeles County
As the Chief Data Officer (CDO) for Los Angeles County, Christopher “Chris” Pailma is responsible for the County’s Enterprise Information Management Program (EIMP) and the Analytics Center of Excellence (ACE). He is responsible for overseeing all aspects of data management, including data architecture, data integration, data warehousing, and data analytics to facilitate information sharing, improve delivery of services, and ensure effective use of IT and data-related assets between the County’s 38+ departments, commissions, and agencies.
Christine Shook
Director of Architecture, Applications and Analytics, Consumers Energy
Christine Shook
Director of Architecture, Applications and Analytics, Consumers Energy
Christine Shook leads a team responsible for technology strategy and solutions that enable business outcomes, application rationalization, and more recently led the Generative AI strategy. Shook’s previous roles included Lead for the Product Model Transformation and Business Case Manager. Before pivoting to technology, she spent 13 years in gas design and leadership roles. Shook is a passionate advocate for women in technology, serving on the Board of Directors for the Michigan Council of Women in Technology (MCWT) Foundation and volunteering for multiple programs.
Christine West
Senior Managing Partner, Info-Tech
Christine West
Senior Managing Partner, Info-Tech
Christine West leads Info-Tech’s Executive Counselors for Financial Services, Insurance, Professional Services, and other sectors. With over 25 years of experience, she has held executive roles in transformational change and technology delivery across complex multi-national organizations. West has been instrumental in driving modernization efforts throughout her career.
Claudia Mamros
Workshop Director, Info-Tech
Claudia Mamros
Workshop Director, Info-Tech
As a seasoned workshop facilitator and dynamic speaker, Claudia brings over 35 years of experience to the table. Her passion lies in creating order out of chaos, transforming complex challenges into practical solutions. With impeccable integrity and a tireless work ethic, she’s managed significant change, optimized processes, and delivered high-value services across diverse industries. Whether aligning effective workgroups, standardizing systems, or identifying untapped potential, Claudia thrives on enriching lives through continuous improvement. As a thought leader and taxonomist, Claudia has designed and implemented robust frameworks for organizations like KPMG QRI and Info-Tech Consulting. She’s also spearheaded joint ventures, documented business requirements, and streamlined processes for major financial institutions, automotive and aerospace manufacturers.
Craig Broussard
Executive Counselor, Global Services, Info-Tech
Craig Broussard
Executive Counselor, Global Services, Info-Tech
Craig has over 40 years of IT experience, including software development, enterprise system management, infrastructure, and cyber security operations. Over the last 20 years, his focus has been on infrastructure and security, along with IT service management. He’s been an accomplished speaker and panelist at industry trade events over the past decade. Before joining Info-Tech, Craig served as Global Infrastructure Director for NCH Corporation, VP of Information Technology at ATOS, and earlier in his career as the Global Head of Data Center Services at Nokia Siemens Networks. Craig also worked for MicroSolutions (a Mark Cuban Company). Additionally, Craig received formal consulting training while working for IBM Global Services.
Crystal Singh
Research Director, Data & Analytics, Info-Tech
Crystal Singh
Research Director, Data & Analytics, Info-Tech
Crystal coaches data leaders on building data practices, platforms, and culture that unlock the value of their data. She brings a diverse and global perspective, drawing from her wealth of professional experience. Crystal has led advisory to a broad client base, both in the public and private sector. This includes federal and state agencies, clients in the aeronautics, higher education, financial, sporting, and oil and gas industries, as well as non-profit organizations. She has industry experience leading enterprise data services, business intelligence and analytics in various fields including telecom, financial, retail, and energy. Crystal holds an MBA from the Schulich School of Business, York University.
Daniel Pink
#1 New York Times Bestselling Author of The Power of Regret, When, To Sell is Human, Drive, and A Whole New Mind
Daniel Pink
#1 New York Times Bestselling Author of The Power of Regret, When, To Sell is Human, Drive, and A Whole New Mind
For the last two decades, Daniel Pink’s books have helped individuals and organizations around the world rethink how they live and operate. His works on business, creativity, and behavior have won multiple awards, been translated into 42 languages, and sold millions of copies in the U.S. and abroad. Pink was host and co-executive producer of “Crowd Control,” a National Geographic Television series on human behavior that aired in more than 100 countries. His MasterClass on sales and persuasion is one of the most popular courses on that platform, and his TED Talk on the science of motivation has been viewed more than 40 million times.
David Costa
Director, Kubota Credit Corporation Technology Services
David Costa
Director, Kubota Credit Corporation Technology Services
David Costa has over 25 years of experience in Consumer Finance, Securitization, and Financial Systems design and management. Costa joined Kubota Credit Corporation early 2022 to lead its Information Technology group. Previously, he led technology teams at Harley Davidson Financial Services for 10 years, and has led system organizations for JPMorgan, Prudential Financial, Chase Manhattan Bank, and several privately held financial service firms. Costa has been a resident of Dallas since 2007 and is an avid local sailor.
David Smith
Vice President, Technology, Sanmar
David Smith
Vice President, Technology, Sanmar
David Smith takes a collaborative and transparent approach to solving problems and unlocking business value. His strategic mindset helps the team prioritize and look for opportunities to help the company grow and be more efficient. Smith joined SanMar after leading enterprise application teams at T-Mobile and Travelocity. While he started his career in the world of Finance, he has spent most of his career in Technology.
Deb Anderson
CIO, Endeavor Health
Deb Anderson
CIO, Endeavor Health
Deb Anderson is the Chief Information Officer at Endeavor Health, leading IT solutions, data analytics, and aligning technical platforms with the organization’s vision of delivering a safe, seamless, secure, and personalized experience for every person, every time. With over 25 years in technology, she has transformed IT departments in Fortune 100 companies and startups. Anderson integrates advanced technology to enhance patient care and operational efficiency. Formerly, she was the SVP and CIO for the Midwest Region of Advocate Health System. She holds an MBA in Finance and Economics from the University of Chicago, a BS in Electrical Engineering Technology, and certifications in Lean, ITIL, and PMP.
Doug Miller
Executive Director, IT Security, Governance, Risk & Compliance, Baylor College of Medicine
Doug Miller
Executive Director, IT Security, Governance, Risk & Compliance, Baylor College of Medicine
Doug Miller has over 30 years of technology experience in Healthcare, Academia, Energy, Banking and more. Early in his career, Miller’s focus was on IT operations. Since then, his interests shifted to governance where he has provided leadership to IT Finance, IT Operations, Project/Program Management, Organizational Change Management, IT Architecture, Cyber Security and more. In his current role, Miller is a strong champion of Business Relationship Management helping the Baylor IT team to be the “first phone call” to their partners.
Dr. Denise Cornish
Interim Senior Vice President, Western University Health Sciences
Dr. Denise Cornish
Interim Senior Vice President, Western University Health Sciences
Dr. Denise Cornish is the Interim Senior Vice President for the Division of Institutional Shared Services at Western University of Health Sciences. With a Doctorate in Business Management, an MBA, a BS in Computer Information Systems, and a Chief Operating Officer certificate from MIT, she excels in strategic leadership and managing large-scale implementations. Dr. Cornish oversees Human Resources, IT, Facilities & Physical Plant, and Environmental Health & Safety. A Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and award-winning CIO, she has a track record in operational excellence and crisis management. Dr. Cornish fosters collaboration, innovation, and sustainability in her initiatives.
Dr. Justin St-Maurice
Principal Research Director, Technology Services, Info-Tech
Dr. Justin St-Maurice
Principal Research Director, Technology Services, Info-Tech
Dr. Justin St-Maurice is a Principal Research Director at Info-Tech Research Group. He specializes in helping Technology Service Providers modernize service delivery models by using business reference architectures, industry insights, and systems thinking. He also supports cloud engineering teams as a technical counselor, utilizing his professional certifications in solution architecture, development, and data analytics to build and manage modern systems. Throughout his career, Dr. St-Maurice has embraced a generalist approach in his diverse roles as a technology leader. During his studies of complex sociotechnical systems, he made significant contributions to the fields of health informatics and systems design, earning an Industrial Postgraduate Scholarship from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada.
Dr. Reddy Doddipalli
Principal Director & Lead Executive Technical Counselor, Info-Tech
Dr. Reddy Doddipalli
Principal Director & Lead Executive Technical Counselor, Info-Tech
Dr. Reddy Doddipalli is a Principal Director and Lead Executive Technical Counselor at Info-Tech, with 27 years of IT experience. He has led major enterprise transformations and holds over a dozen patents in AI algorithms. Dr. Doddipalli earned a post-doctorate in AI from MIT and has taught at Ivy League institutions for over 25 years.
Dr. Timnit Gebru
Founder & Executive Director, The Distributed AI Research Institute (DAIR)
Dr. Timnit Gebru
Founder & Executive Director, The Distributed AI Research Institute (DAIR)
A trail-blazing computer scientist and the former co-lead of Google’s Ethical AI research team, Dr. Gebru is renowned for her efforts to reduce the potential negative impacts of AI. Prior to receiving her PhD from the Stanford Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, she worked at Apple designing circuits and signal processing algorithms for various Apple products, including the first iPad. Dr. Gebru’s work has been covered by outlets ranging from the New York Times to The Economist, and she has been named to notable lists such as the Bloomberg 50, Wired 25, and Forbes 30 inspirational women. Most recently, Dr. Gebru was awarded the Electronic Frontier Foundation’s pioneer award.
Ed DePrimo
CIO, Mauser Packaging
Ed DePrimo
CIO, Mauser Packaging
Ed DePrimo is an experienced and technically savvy IT executive with significant business, financial, and technical acumen coupled with an engaging and transformative leadership style. He has a proven track record of aligning teams, processes, and technologies to enable business success across multiple industries. DePrimo successfully manages multiple priorities simultaneously – delivering sound decisions in times of high stress. DePrimo is a strategic business partner, consistently improving established processes to best align with company priorities and to drive improvement in service levels and project deliverables. He speaks both business and technical language to best connect with stakeholders and reach desired outcomes, and takes a decisive and intuitive, solution-focused approach to provide team momentum from inception through project fruition. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for complex problem solving and project innovation.
Elizabeth Adcock
CIO, MAC Federal Credit Union
Elizabeth Adcock
CIO, MAC Federal Credit Union
Elizabeth Adcock is the Chief Information Officer and Chief Information Security Officer for MAC Federal Credit Union based in Fairbanks, Alaska. Specializing in delivering innovative digital banking and payments experiences, she enjoys finding the balance between ease of use for the customer and advanced security for the organization. Having successfully used virtual agents, natural language programming, machine learning, and robotic process automation in the credit union space over the last 10+ years, she is currently evaluating how Generative AI can be responsibly used to improve the customer experience in financial services.
Elizabeth Silva
Senior Research Analyst, Info-Tech
Elizabeth Silva
Senior Research Analyst, Info-Tech
Elizabeth Silva is passionate about delivering strategic initiatives through digital transformation and creating high-value experiences for the global sports, entertainment, gaming, and hospitality industries. As a Senior Research Analyst at Info-Tech, she conducts in-depth primary and secondary research, analyzes data, and develops insights for customers in various industry sectors. Silva has a strong background in hospitality and tourism management as well as global sports management. She holds an Honours Bachelor of Commerce degree from Humber Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning and a certificate from New York University. She is skilled in teamwork, time management, research, analysis, and thought leadership.
Ellen Wiegand
SVP & CIO, VCU Health
Ellen Wiegand
SVP & CIO, VCU Health
Ellen Wiegand is SVP and CIO at VCU Health, a comprehensive academic health system with the largest safety-net hospital in the Commonwealth of Virginia. As CIO, Wiegand is charged with leveraging technology to preserve and restore the health for all people of Virginia and beyond. She is accountable for overall IT strategy, including all infrastructure, operations, applications, informatics, data and analytics.
Elmar Els
Enterprise Architect, Coca-Cola Beverages Africa
Elmar Els
Enterprise Architect, Coca-Cola Beverages Africa
Elmar Els is leading Coca-Cola Beverages Africa’s Enterprise Architecture practice and brings over 17 years of extensive experience in architecture-related positions across various industries. Known for his drive and proactive approach, he has been instrumental in shaping CCBA’s Enterprise Architecture. Els has expertise in multiple data projects and international ERP implementations, integrating diverse technologies with a focus on achieving future state architectures through reference architectures, roadmaps, and multi-year plans aligned with digital strategies.
Elvis Celic
Principal Advisory Director, Call Quality & Delivery, Project & Portfolio Management, Info-Tech
Elvis Celic
Principal Advisory Director, Call Quality & Delivery, Project & Portfolio Management, Info-Tech
With 20+ years of experience across multiple industries, Elvis currently works on creating and delivering client-driven, project-based, practical research and advisory services that help Info-Tech members drive measurable results in their organizations. His primary focus is within the domains of Project Management, Project Portfolio Management, and Organizational Change Management. Prior to Info-Tech, Elvis spearheaded large complex transformational initiatives, established organization-wide project portfolio management practices, successfully implemented IT and enterprise project management offices, and developed expert-level talent in the private and public sectors.
Frank Sewell
Principal Advisory Director, Info-Tech
Frank Sewell
Principal Advisory Director, Info-Tech
Frank Sewell is a Principal Advisory Director with 30 years of experience in Information Technology. His breadth of IT knowledge includes strategy, governance, vendor management, operations, compliance, risk, security, service desk, contract negotiation and review, and project management. He is particularly adept at understanding complicated processes and implementing appropriate solutions to facilitate business needs and objectives, as well as complex negotiations for IT solutions. Sewell has worked in a variety of industries including not-for-profit, government, higher education, K-12 education, and healthcare. He holds a bachelor’s degree in history from the University of New Orleans.
Frank Sweeney
CIO, Arizona Department of Child Safety
Frank Sweeney
CIO, Arizona Department of Child Safety
Frank Sweeney is a distinguished executive with a notable career in driving innovation. In the early 1990s, he played a crucial role in developing one of the first Internet credit card authorization systems. His exceptional contributions at Andersen Consulting (now Accenture) earned him high acclaim, leading to the co-founding of a business process management company with Nortel Communications, which was valued at $20 million.
Fred Chagnon
Principal Research Director, Security & Privacy, Info-Tech
Fred Chagnon
Principal Research Director, Security & Privacy, Info-Tech
Within the Security and Privacy research practice, Chagnon’s research focus centers around the effective modernization of information security operations. Whether through effective partnerships with information security partners, security process automation, or the progressive deployment of artificial intelligence in a cybersecurity context, Chagnon is passionate about the effective use of people, process, and technology toward the end of a cyber resilient organization. Chagnon’s background is heavily steeped in data center infrastructure, networking, and information security. His expertise in these areas have contributed to helping IT leaders make strategic decisions around infrastructure modernization, cloud strategy, partnerships with technology service providers and effectively running information security operations.
Fritz Jean Louis
Principal Cybersecurity Advisor, Security and Privacy, Info-Tech
Fritz Jean Louis
Principal Cybersecurity Advisor, Security and Privacy, Info-Tech
Former CISO for the Globe and Mail, Fritz has over 22 years of enterprise experience in security and privacy program management, strategy, relationship management, risk management, program execution, and leading and mentoring teams. Fritz has worked in multiple industries, including financial, oil and gas, retail, and telecommunications. He has amassed a wide range of practical cybersecurity experience in organizational information security strategy, design, technical standards, security policy, governance, compliance, and risk management. He has led numerous enterprise projects and strategic initiatives in areas including intrusion detection and prevention, endpoint management, security awareness training, security information and event management, data protection, identity and access management, vulnerability management, digital forensics, and cyber incident response.
Geoff Nielson
SVP, Brand Reach & Influence, Info-Tech
Geoff Nielson
SVP, Brand Reach & Influence, Info-Tech
Geoff brings over 15 years of service to Info-Tech, during which time he has held a number of pivotal roles. He currently leads Info-Tech’s Brand & Content team, which is responsible for crystalizing the organization’s research insights and sharing them with technology leaders. Previously, he led the Executive Services and Consulting organizations responsible for providing strategic guidance to thousands of CIOs and senior technology leaders globally. As Vice Present of Strategy and Innovation, he led the organization’s digital transformation. His team brought over a dozen SaaS products to market, mandated to disrupt traditional technology and strategy consulting using data-driven management software. Geoff received his Honours Business Administration from the Richard Ivey School of Business at the University of Western Ontario.
Gordon MacMaster
VP, Data and Analytics Consulting Practice, Info-Tech
Gordon MacMaster
VP, Data and Analytics Consulting Practice, Info-Tech
A seasoned data strategist, Gordon MacMaster is the VP of the Data & Analytics Consulting Practice at Info-Tech Research Group. MacMaster has dedicated his career to helping organizations use data effectively, staying at the forefront of every data revolution. From the early days of reporting, business intelligence, and Big Data to the latest advancements in operational research, predictive analytics, data science, and artificial intelligence, he has embraced new opportunities, overcome unforeseen challenges, and developed novel solutions. Throughout his career, MacMaster has supported a diverse client roster in both public and private sectors. His expertise and leadership have consistently driven successful data initiatives, enabling organizations to leverage data for strategic decision-making and operational efficiency.
Gwen Bourque
CIO, Endeavor Health
Gwen Bourque
CIO, Endeavor Health
Gwen Bourque serves as the AVP of ITS and CIO at Saskatchewan Polytechnic. She has earned a Master of Interdisciplinary Studies specializing in Digital Transformation and Leadership, an associate’s degree in computer systems technology, and is certified as a PMP. Bourque has served in the Canadian Armed Forces spanning 32 years where she functions as an Army Reservist. Presently, she holds the position of Deputy Commander for the 3rd Canadian Division, headquartered in Alberta. Her dedication to her country has been recognized with an appointment to the Order of Military Merit by the Governor General of Canada, Her Excellency the Right Honorable Mary Simon. Bourque is an avid advocate and passionate about helping women in leadership roles.
Heather Leier-Murray
Research Director, Info-Tech
Heather Leier-Murray
Research Director, Info-Tech
Heather Leier-Murray is a researcher, advisor, and coach who helps IT leaders transform their organizations by improving the employee experience and leadership. She covers topics in leadership, talent management, and career development. Leier-Murray is experienced in leading the human resource function and coaching leaders on difficult people-related matters. Before Info-Tech, Leier-Murray worked in public-sector, higher education, and hospitality and tourism. She has an MBA with a specialization in Global Leadership and has a BMgt in HR and Labour Relations.
Hector Molina
Vice Chancellor for Information Technology, CIO, Fayetteville State University
Hector Molina
Vice Chancellor for Information Technology, CIO, Fayetteville State University
Dr. Hector M. Molina is an accomplished technology leader with extensive experience in IT leadership, holding the position of Vice Chancellor for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer at Fayetteville State University. With advanced degrees in Information Technology, Business Administration, and Organizational Leadership, Dr. Molina has a proven track record of strategic IT management, governance, and stakeholder engagement. He has led diverse teams, managed significant budgets, and implemented robust technology infrastructures, ensuring cybersecurity and data privacy. Dr. Molina is also a dedicated educator and published author, contributing significantly to the field of IT governance and higher education.
Hendra Hendrawan
Technical Counselor, Security and Risk Management, Info-Tech
Hendra Hendrawan
Technical Counselor, Security and Risk Management, Info-Tech
Hendra Hendrawan is a Security Technical Counselor in the Global Services division with 20+ years of experience. He supports clients in various industries across the U.S. and Canada. Before joining Info-Tech, Hendrawan managed the cyber-risk portfolio of a digital bank within a Capital Market division with an annual revenue of $100 million and 200 million customers. Prior to that, he managed the security operations team at the 3rd largest university in Canada. He also teaches part-time at the University of Toronto and Seneca Polytechnic.
Hillory Courtney
Executive Counselor, Info-Tech
Hillory Courtney
Executive Counselor, Info-Tech
Hillory Courtney has over 20 years of technology leadership experience in the public and private sector. In her role as Executive Counselor, she strives to bring member goals into sharp focus, forming partnerships that maximize business value and operational excellence. She is deeply familiar with the organizational and cultural challenges that are unique to public agencies and believes that IT teams are critical strategic partners to elevate service delivery for citizens and customers. She is passionate about helping senior IT leaders navigate the intersection between people and tech and empowering teams to innovate, optimize, and enable future-ready solutions.
Ibrahim Abdel-Kader
Research Analyst, Data & Analytics, Info-Tech
Ibrahim Abdel-Kader
Research Analyst, Data & Analytics, Info-Tech
As a Research Analyst, Ibrahim has sought to support organizations across the knowledge management journey. He designed and implemented an intranet system for developing research products for technology executives. Ibrahim is passionate about enabling people to solve their problems with a path for continuous improvement. With a BCom in Global Management Studies from the Ted Rogers School of Management, Toronto Metropolitan University, he believes that each person has their own context, preferences, and story to tell. He thrives in aligning these needs with the overall system and organizational needs.
Igor Ikonnikov
Principal Advisory Director, Data & Analytics, Info-Tech
Igor Ikonnikov
Principal Advisory Director, Data & Analytics, Info-Tech
Igor has extensive experience in the information management domain, including master data management, data governance, knowledge management, and reporting and analytics. His expertise includes enabling business-oriented reporting and analytics capabilities, as well as all aspects of strategy implementation: goal-setting, gap analysis, prioritization and planning, stakeholder management, communication, etc. Igor has participated in strategic technology roadmap formation, technology selection, and vendor management. Igor has an MBA from the Ted Rogers School of Management, Toronto Metropolitan University, with a specialization in Management of Technology & Innovation.
Isaac Abbs
CIO, Pima Community College
Isaac Abbs
CIO, Pima Community College
Isaac Abbs serves as the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Pima Community College, in Tucson, Arizona. As the CIO, Abbs works with the college community to ensure that IT is providing a high level of satisfaction and value. He oversees the day-to-day activities and sets the strategic direction for the Information Technology department. Additionally, he is focused on leveraging innovative and forward-thinking technologies to improve business operations and reduce risk.
Isabelle Hertanto
Research Practice Lead, Security & Privacy, Info-Tech
Isabelle Hertanto
Research Practice Lead, Security & Privacy, Info-Tech
Isabelle focuses on helping clients align enterprise IT security activities to business objectives through strategic planning, risk and compliance management, policy development, and security program design. Isabelle has over 15 years of experience delivering specialized IT services to the security and intelligence community. As a former federal officer for Public Safety Canada, Isabelle trained and led teams on data exploitation and digital surveillance operations in support of Canadian national security investigations. Since transitioning into the private sector, Isabelle has held senior management and consulting roles across a variety of industry sectors, including retail, construction, energy, healthcare, and the broader Canadian public sector.
Jack Hakimian
SVP, Research & Advisory Services, Info-Tech
Jack Hakimian
SVP, Research & Advisory Services, Info-Tech
With 30+ years of technology and management consulting experience, Jack has served multi-billion-dollar organizations in industries including financial services, oil & gas, and telecommunications. He has also served large federal and state government institutions. Prior to Info-Tech, Jack worked for leading consulting players, including Accenture, Deloitte, EY, and IBM. He led digital business strategy engagements, corporate strategy, and M&A consulting services for clients globally. He has built AI implementation roadmaps, led enterprise-wide digital transformations, and managed the deployment of mission-critical CRM and ERP applications. A frequent speaker at technology and innovation events, Jack holds a master’s degree in computer engineering and an MBA from the ESCP European Business School.
Jamie Giroux
CISSP, CISA, CRISC, SVP, Chief Information Security Officer, Platinum Equity
Jamie Giroux
CISSP, CISA, CRISC, SVP, Chief Information Security Officer, Platinum Equity
With over 25 years of experience in cybersecurity, Jamie Giroux embodies a blend of deep technical expertise and strategic leadership, propelling organizations towards a secure digital frontier. Giroux has a profound understanding of the human element intertwined with cybersecurity protocols, and this unique perspective has been instrumental in crafting security architectures that are not only technologically sound but also resonate with the organizational culture. A seasoned CISO, Giroux has been at the helm of multidisciplinary teams, driving a collaborative approach to problem-solving and ensuring seamless alignment between security initiatives and business objectives. Through active participation in industry forums, publications, and events, Giroux has contributed to the evolving discourse surrounding cybersecurity, sharing insights and learning from peers to propel the industry forward.
Jay Gittings
VP, Enterprise Architecture & Business Applications, Lighthouse Credit Union
Jay Gittings
VP, Enterprise Architecture & Business Applications, Lighthouse Credit Union
Jay Gittings’ career has spanned two decades in IT, delivering solutions to business problems across a range of industries. He has developed custom application solutions in education, insurance, marketing, employee benefits, agriculture, ecommerce and finance. In 2015, Gittings discovered the credit union movement. The movement’s mission and member focus resonated strongly and led to his transition into IT leadership, guiding teams on Software Development, API integrations and core banking functionality. Gittings now calls Lighthouse Credit Union home, championing initiatives to transform the end user experience and drive unique value streams that make a difference in members’ lives.
Jeff Elliott
Advisory Director, Price Benchmarking and Negotiation, Info-Tech
Jeff Elliott
Advisory Director, Price Benchmarking and Negotiation, Info-Tech
Jeff specializes in Microsoft Licensing and has over 25 years of experience working with customers, discussing all aspects of Microsoft licensing, different license programs, and licensing terms, to name a few. Prior to joining Info-Tech, Jeff was a Microsoft Licensing Specialist in the Licensing Solution Provider (LSP) channel. He has worked for various LSP partners, including CDW, SHI, and Softchoice. He oversaw the management of EA customers, between 500 and 90,000+ users. Jeff has earned numerous Microsoft certifications and Awards over his years in the LSP channel.
Jeff Kramer
VP Technology, Kason
Jeff Kramer
VP Technology, Kason
Jeff Kramer has been a business entrepreneur and technology leader for over 37 years, with proven success in the areas of business development and strategic planning to drive the use of information technology to enable businesses to reach their customers, markets, and core objectives. Kramer has developed and executed programs for a wide range of clients, including modern startups, telecommunication service providers, Software Service companies, and global Fortune 500 organizations. He was one of the founding partners at Syzygy Solutions, a bespoke consulting firm focused on enabling technology, data management, and cybersecurity, which merged with Aprio. Kramer is currently the VP Technology and Digital Factory at Kason, where as a key executive leads an agile team to empower the digital transformation of Kason into an Industry 4.0 leader.
Jeffrey Aguilar
Chief Information Security Officer, Los Angeles County
Jeffrey Aguilar
Chief Information Security Officer, Los Angeles County
As CISO of Los Angeles County, Jeffrey Aguilar is responsible for all aspects of information security, including information security governance, strategic direction, executive advisory, program maturity, and adherence to federal information security policy. With over 26 years of experience, Aguilar has served as a consultant to several Fortune 500 organizations providing an array of services ranging from advisory roles to executive leadership to recommendations of technical solutions. Aguilar holds industry certifications CISM, CRISC, CDPSE and earned his MBA from Pepperdine Graziadio Business School, where he is now an Adjunct Professor. He is an active member of several industry advisory boards including FBI Cyberwatch, Infragard, LA City CyberLabs, and Pepperdine CyRP program. He is a 2023 CISOs Connect C100 award winner, two-time Government Technology award winner.
Jennifer Rozon
Division President, McLean & Company
Jennifer Rozon
Division President, McLean & Company
Jennifer Rozon is the Division President of McLean & Company. She manages the overall vision and strategy for research, product development, business development, and customer experience. She is passionate about elevating HR departments and translating innovative ideas into execution through inspired team members. Rozon is an analytical leader who drives bottom-line results while staying people-focused and embraces change as an opportunity to drive breakthrough performance. She is a firm believer that creating an exceptional employee experience will in turn create a better member experience. Since joining the organization in 2006, Rozon has held positions in research, business development, corporate strategy, and product development. She pioneered some of the first blueprints and diagnostic products, including the development of the Employee Engagement Program.
Jeremy Roberts
Senior Workshop Director, Info-Tech
Jeremy Roberts
Senior Workshop Director, Info-Tech
Jeremy Roberts is a Senior Workshop Director at Info-Tech Research Group. He leads engagements on topics as diverse as cloud and core infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and end user computing. When he’s not working directly with members, he’s sharing his thoughts with the media, delivering keynote presentations, and working with colleagues to build Info-Tech's research. Roberts has worked at Info-Tech since 2016 in a variety of roles and holds BA and PhD degrees from the University of Western Ontario, and an MSc from the University of Oxford.
Jim Purcell
Vice President and CIO, McWane
Jim Purcell
Vice President and CIO, McWane
Jim Purcell is Vice President and CIO at McWane, one of the largest privately owned companies in the U.S. Prior to joining McWane, he spent over three years as the Secretary of Technology and the state CIO for the State of Alabama. As a cabinet member to Governor Ivey, Purcell led the Office of Information Technology and its services in the State of Alabama. While there, he was awarded CIO of the Year in 2019 by the Alabama CIO Association as well as the State Executive of the Year by State Scoop Magazine. Prior career achievements include CTO for Brasfield & Gorrie, Director of Commercial Sales for NWN, Inc., and Manager of Solutions Architecture for VeriStor, Inc. Purcell’s education includes a BBA in Accounting from Georgia State University.
Jing Wu
Principal Research Director, Industry Research, Info-Tech
Jing Wu
Principal Research Director, Industry Research, Info-Tech
Jing is passionate about collaborating with technology leaders to solve complex challenges effectively. Jing brings extensive practitioner experience in the utility sector, offering strategic insights to our global utility members. She helps our members achieve impactful outcomes by leveraging her extensive experience collaborating with utility industry leaders, in-depth knowledge of sector trends, and practical methodologies. Jing holds a Master’s Degree in Computing Science from the University of Alberta, specializing in Artificial Intelligence - Heuristic Search and Probabilistic Robotics.
Jody Gunderman
Executive Counselor & CFO Technical Counselor, Info-Tech
Jody Gunderman
Executive Counselor & CFO Technical Counselor, Info-Tech
Jody Gunderman is the Banking and Captive Finance Lead in Info-Tech’s Executive Services, as well as the CFO Technical Counselor. He specializes in the intersectionality of IT and Finance and the enabling aspects of these verticals within organizations. Gunderman has 40 years of executive experience in Financial Services across Banking, Retail Finance, and P&C Insurance. He held roles including President and CFO for Banking Operations for John Deere and National Director for Harley-Davidson Financial Services. Gunderman earned a degree in Business Administration from the Knauss School of Business, University of San Diego, an MBA from the Alber’s School of Business, Seattle University, and is also a graduate of the Stonier Graduate School of Banking, Wharton School of Business, University of Pennsylvania.
John Kemp
Senior Director, Executive Services, Info-Tech
John Kemp
Senior Director, Executive Services, Info-Tech
As an Executive Counselor, John Kemp helps clients unlock their potential and supports ongoing incremental improvement of client’s success stories with their primary stakeholders and partners. During Kemp’s 40-year career in technology, his roles included CIO of Grant Thornton in Canada and Vice President of I&O and Service Delivery at CIBC Mellon. His experience also includes service in the military, Telecommunications with AT&T Canada, Entertainment with Alliance Atlantis, and as an entrepreneur in his own consultancy. Kemp has developed experience across a broad range of industries, addressing challenges to technology improvement and delivery in government and private sector.
Jonathan Fozard
AVP & CIO, Florida State University (FSU)
Jonathan Fozard
AVP & CIO, Florida State University (FSU)
With more than two decades’ experience in higher education leadership, Jonathan currently leads a team of over 750 IT professionals at FSU who support academic, research, communication, security, and administrative computing functions across Florida and at other international locations. Jonathan also manages the Florida Northwest Regional Data Center, Florida Virtual Campus, and the State Data Center of Florida. Recently, he was confirmed by the Florida Senate for a four-year term on the Technology Modernization Council for the Governor, which aims to advance technology and AI throughout the state.
Jonathan Nelson
Principal Advisory Director, Security & Privacy, Info-Tech
Jonathan Nelson
Principal Advisory Director, Security & Privacy, Info-Tech
Jon has over 25 years of experience in IT and cybersecurity, primarily within the fintech industry. Most recently, Jon served as an Information Security Risk Officer for a Fortune 500 Fintech responsible for core banking and payment systems, moving trillions of dollars each day. Jon holds several security certifications, including Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), as well as a Bachelor of Science degree from Nebraska Wesleyan University.
Justin W. Eggstaff
Managing Partner, Global Services, Info-Tech Research
Justin W. Eggstaff
Managing Partner, Global Services, Info-Tech Research
Justin is the Managing Partner for US Federal and Department of Defense clients. He has over 25 years of experience as a CEO, CTO, and expert acquisition professional that spans the acquisition life cycle. He has supported numerous Federal and Department of Defense clients in areas including strategy development and planning, organizational design, process improvement, program management, cybersecurity assessment, technology development, data analysis, business analytics, human capital strategy, strategic communications, and operational risk management.
Kamal Mohanty
Sr. VP of IT, Miller Zell
Kamal Mohanty
Sr. VP of IT, Miller Zell
Kamal Mohanty is an accomplished IT executive with over 20 years of progressive leadership experience, driving strategic technology initiatives and business transformation. As Sr. Vice President of IT at Miller Zell, Mohanty is responsible for orchestrating the seamless operation of the IT organization, harmonizing it with the broader business objectives.
Kate Wood
Practice Lead, Security & Privacy, Info-Tech
Kate Wood
Practice Lead, Security & Privacy, Info-Tech
With 25 years’ experience in IT and information security, Kate leads the research agenda and manages research development in security, privacy, infrastructure, and operations. Prior to Info-Tech, Kate managed the information security office for a global insurance and investments enterprise. She led a team of analysts providing cybersecurity services across multiple companies and jurisdictions. Kate’s expertise encompasses all aspects of security risk management, including compliance, control framework design, vendor risk management, and threat modeling, as well as security operations, security technologies, threat intelligence, and incident response. Kate has a master’s degree in cyber security from the University of Essex and holds numerous security certifications.
Ken Piddington
VP & CIO, US Silica
Ken Piddington
VP & CIO, US Silica
Ken Piddington is the Vice President and CIO at U.S. Silica. He previously served as CIO for multiple companies, where he contributed to their tremendous growth and transformation. Piddington has received the Houston CIO of the Year Orbie award, named a Computerworld Premier 100 Technology leader, is a CIO100 Award winner, and has twice been recognized as an InformationWeek 500 Top Technology Innovator.
Kevin Gray
Chief Technology Officer, Southern California Regional Rail Authority
Kevin Gray
Chief Technology Officer, Southern California Regional Rail Authority
Kevin Gray is a multiple award-winning CIO whose vision and leadership helped transform multiple technology organizations and deliver world-class business satisfaction. He recently joined the Southern California Regional Rail Authority aka Metrolink as CTO.
Kevin Tucker
Advisory Practice Lead, Info-Tech
Kevin Tucker
Advisory Practice Lead, Info-Tech
Kevin Tucker is an Advisory Practice Lead for the Data, Analytics, and Enterprise Architecture team, and was previously a Principal Research Directory specializing in Logistics, Supply Chain, and Manufacturing. Any industry that wants to optimize its data and architecture practices can get advice from Tucker and his team of experts. Tucker’s experience spans more than 30 years in Global IT leadership, and includes broad experience running a wide variety of programs for both IT and OT. His teams have won numerous industry awards, and he established a mentorship program for CIOs as a board director for the CIO Association of Canada.
Kimberly Jones
VP of Information Technology Services and CIO, Morehouse College
Kimberly Jones
VP of Information Technology Services and CIO, Morehouse College
Kimberley Jones, PhD is the Vice President for Information Technology Service and Chief Information Officer at Morehouse College since 2018, and is currently the Chair of the Atlanta University Consortium (AUC) CIO Council. With nearly two decades of experience in higher education IT, she has saved Morehouse nearly $1 million through strategic contract negotiations and increased network uptime to 99.9%. Jones holds a PhD in Instructional Technology Education from Mississippi State University. She is a member of several professional organizations, including the Associated Colleges of the South, the Consortium of Liberal Arts Colleges (CLAC-CIOS), the Microsoft Campus Advisory Board, the OculusIT IT Advisory Board, and a mentor for the Next Leaders Fellowship (NLF).
Laurence Moroney
AI Researcher and Author
Laurence Moroney
AI Researcher and Author
Moroney’s session, “Navigating the AI Landscape: From Hype to Reality,” will examine the current state of AI technology, separating genuine advancements from exaggerated claims. Attendees will gain valuable perspectives on implementing AI solutions that align with their business objectives, enhancing operational efficiency, and fostering innovation. Drawing from his extensive experience at Google and his acclaimed publications, Moroney will provide practical insights to help IT leaders make informed decisions in an increasingly AI-driven world.
Lisa Gibson
President & Founder, Ignite Communications
Lisa Gibson
President & Founder, Ignite Communications
Lisa Gibson is the President & Founder of Ignite Communications. She is an award-winning and well-respected communications executive and speaker with 30 years of experience working for some of the world’s largest brands. Prior to starting her consulting company, Gibson was the Chief of Staff and Head of Communications for Microsoft Canada. Gibson has a strong reputation for solving complex business problems through strategic communications and delivering best-in-class communication programs. She regularly speaks about AI & Comms, personal branding and women in STEM, and is a member of two boards: The Shine Foundation and QueerTech.
Mahmoud Ramin
Senior Research Analyst, Info-Tech
Mahmoud Ramin
Senior Research Analyst, Info-Tech
Mahmoud Ramin is a senior research analyst specializing in security, privacy, infrastructure, and operations. With expertise in IT service management, artificial intelligence, and endpoint management, Ramin collaborates globally with IT specialists to address complex challenges. He holds a PhD in neuroscience from McGill University and is recognized for his industry research, published articles, advisory engagements, and conference presentations.
Manish Jain
Principal Research Director, CIO, Info-Tech
Manish Jain
Principal Research Director, CIO, Info-Tech
A seasoned strategy professional with nearly two decades of professional experience in formulating corporate/unit strategy, technology strategy, architecture, design, and executing digital agile programs, Manish is responsible for research and advisory on subjects related to IT Strategy, Digital Strategy, IT Funding Models, Innovation, M&A, and Intrapreneurship. Before Info-Tech, he helped banking, credit rating, and life sciences clients solve business problems and unlock new opportunities through digital frameworks and technologies. He also served in corporate development roles as the BFS Business Unit Strategy lead and Head of Global Sales Strategy and Operations for a $1B digital services organization.
Mark Maby
Principal Research Director for Education, Industry Practice, Info-Tech
Mark Maby
Principal Research Director for Education, Industry Practice, Info-Tech
Mark Maby works in the Industry practice at Info-Tech as Principal Research Director for Education. Prior to entering IT, Maby worked in the education sector in Canada and overseas, at both technical colleges and universities. He has worked on education projects for curriculum renewal, blended learning, and program development. At Info-Tech, Maby has worked with clients on the development of IT strategy, digital transformation, organizational design, and enterprise architecture. Maby has a BA from the University of Toronto, an MA in Education from McGill, and a PhD in Applied Linguistics from Cardiff University.
Mark Roman
Managing Partner, Education, Info-Tech
Mark Roman
Managing Partner, Education, Info-Tech
Mark is responsible for the delivery of Info-Tech services to members throughout the higher education and K-12 sectors and for the alignment of research with the education sector’s needs. Prior to Info-Tech, Mark was an accomplished higher education CIO with extensive experience leading large-scale information systems departments and has a consistent record of implementing significant and innovative digital transformations. He is an inspiring leader who has transformed IT departments to deliver leading-edge solutions and elevate the value of IT for the entire organization. Mark has also served as a CEO, worked on several boards in education, and run an IT strategy consulting firm specializing in education.
Mark Tauschek
VP, Research Fellowships, Info-Tech
Mark Tauschek
VP, Research Fellowships, Info-Tech
Mark Tauschek is a VP of Research Fellowships at Info-Tech and a distinguished Analyst, with over two decades of focus on disruptive technologies. He has published extensively on exponential advancements in science and technology and their impact on the workplace. Tauschek holds an MBA from the Ivey Business School and is a member of the Forbes Technology Council.
Martin Bufi
Research Director, AI Research, Info-Tech
Martin Bufi
Research Director, AI Research, Info-Tech
Martin has over 12 years of extensive AI experience as a technical advisor, engineering manager, and engineer. He is a technical expert in deep learning, machine learning, risk, and governance. Martin excels in transforming advanced AI concepts into practical solutions, driving AI innovation within enterprises, and scaling AI applications across various industries.
Mary D. VanLeer
Sr. Executive Counselor, Global Services, Info-Tech
Mary D. VanLeer
Sr. Executive Counselor, Global Services, Info-Tech
Mary is responsible for partnering with CIOs and technology executives to deliver ideas, strategies, and solutions that ensure success for their most important business initiatives while never losing sight of their personal and professional goals. Her past positions include Director of Technology Strategy and Implementation for the State of Arkansas and Director of Systems Engineering Operations for International Game Technology and Sun Microsystems. Mary holds a Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering from the Stevens Institute of Technology, a Harvard Business School Certificate on Preparing to be a Corporate Director, and is a certified executive coach.
Maurice A. Ferrell
PhD, VP of Technology and CIO for the University of North Carolina System Office, University of North Carolina
Maurice A. Ferrell
PhD, VP of Technology and CIO for the University of North Carolina System Office, University of North Carolina
Before joining the UNC System Office, Maurice Ferrell served as the Associate Dean for Information Management. He also served as an adjunct professor teaching leadership in the Master of Public Administration course. Ferrell was the first CIO for the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research in Danville, VA. His efforts were recognized by the Governor at the Commonwealth of Virginia Innovative Technology Symposium (COVITS) in 2004 for Technology Innovation in Higher Education. He also served as principal investigator for a National Science Foundation grant that focused on providing technology experiences for high school students. Ferrell earned a PhD from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, an MBA from Liberty University, a BBA from Averett University, and an associate degree in information technology from Danville Community College.
Micah Harkin
Executive Counselor, Info-Tech
Micah Harkin
Executive Counselor, Info-Tech
Micah Harkin, an Executive Counselor at Info-Tech, has over 20 years of experience in IT strategy and digital transformation. She has led transformation efforts for global organizations and is passionate about supporting individuals with disabilities. Harkin is actively involved with the Harkin Institute to empower people on the Autism Spectrum.
Michele Steele
Executive Counselor, Info-Tech
Michele Steele
Executive Counselor, Info-Tech
As a Counselor within our Global Services Team, Michele Steele partners with CIOs and executive IT leaders to achieve and sustain success by identifying their key opportunities to increase business value, foster innovation, improve operational effectiveness, and enhance client engagement. She leverages Info-Tech’s continually evolving tool and service offerings to ensure visible progress and measurable value, while maintaining alignment with proven industry practices. Prior to the Executive Counselor role, Steele held various business and IT leadership roles in leading global companies. During more than 25 years of global experience in financial services and insurance, media, and pharmaceutical industries, she has addressed challenges to technology improvement and delivery.
Michelle Joliat
Senior Managing Director, Product and Delivery, Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan
Michelle Joliat
Senior Managing Director, Product and Delivery, Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan
Michelle Joliat is the Senior Managing Director, Product and Delivery, at Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan, one of Canada’s largest institutional investors with over $245 billion in net assets. In 2021, she led the restructuring of their Technology organization to a product-based operating model, enabling the Technology teams to be more responsive to the needs of internal business partners.
Mikel Costello
Strategic Planning & Design Manager, Washington Technology Services
Mikel Costello
Strategic Planning & Design Manager, Washington Technology Services
Mikel Costello is the Strategic Planning & Design Manager based in Sarasota, FL. He oversees solution architecture, systems engineering, and capacity management services. Costello’s expertise in enterprise architecture, computing infrastructure, and security allows him to harmonize and integrate diverse technologies into comprehensive design solutions. He is particularly proud of his role as an innovator pioneering Washington State’s zero trust blueprint and architecting the state’s “Highway to the Clouds,” which bridges on-premise, remote, and cloud-based resources. Costello is a retired Army Signal Warrant Officer.
Mirian S. Avalos
General Manager of IT, Los Angeles County Internal Services Department
Mirian S. Avalos
General Manager of IT, Los Angeles County Internal Services Department
In 2023, Mirian S. Avalos became the first Latina to be appointed General Manager of Information Technology with the Los Angeles County Internal Services Department. She is responsible for directing application development, network activities, and data center operations for one of the largest local government agencies in the nation.
Neal Rosenblatt
Principal Research Director, Industry Research, Info-Tech
Neal Rosenblatt
Principal Research Director, Industry Research, Info-Tech
Neal is dedicated to advancing public health and safety on a global scale. His journey has been a blend of passion, curiosity, and steadfast commitment to translating scientific discoveries into actionable insights for public sector leaders. With a background in public health and a penchant for rigorous data analytics and innovative uses of technology, Neal has made it his life’s work to bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and practical, evidence-based solutions. His ultimate aim is to empower public sector leaders with the knowledge and information they need to make informed decisions that save lives and improve the well-being of populations one step at a time toward a healthier, safer, and more equitable world.
Neil de Ridder
Senior Executive Counselor, Info-Tech
Neil de Ridder
Senior Executive Counselor, Info-Tech
Neil de Ridder is a Senior Executive Counselor at Info-Tech, with 37 years of IT experience and 23 years in technology consulting. He has held senior leadership roles, including CIO positions, and has worked across various industries, such as energy, retail, government, and space. De Ridder brings a wealth of knowledge from his diverse career.
Neville Richardson
CIO, Gallagher Group Limited
Neville Richardson
CIO, Gallagher Group Limited
For six years, Neville has worked as CIO for New Zealand’s largest 100% privately owned technology businesses, which deliver to the Animal Management and Security sectors worldwide. Neville has a proven track record in corporate environments, with measurable success and innovation across the entire business value chain, providing executive oversight and leadership in order to bring organizations into the digital era. He is a keen evangelist on Digital Dexterity, having realized that technology and process are not the only focus for IT professionals. Neville is regularly recognized as one of New Zealand’s top 50 CIOs, for his business leadership, technology evangelism, and ability to engineer change over a 30-year career in the industry.
Oren Rosen
CEO, eProc Solutions
Oren Rosen
CEO, eProc Solutions
Oren Rosen is a seasoned technology entrepreneur with an expansive career that began in 1990, marking the start of a lifelong pursuit of innovation in the IT sector. Throughout his career, Rosen has played a vital role in developing multiple companies. He leveraged this extensive experience to establish eProc Solutions, where he continues to drive forward advancements in IT support. As the CEO of eProc Solutions, Rosen has been pioneering the development of the eProc Control Center, aiming to revolutionize IT team operations and boost organizational productivity. His vision has consistently focused on enhancing the efficiency of IT services. Rosen’s commitment to eProc Solutions embodies his dedication to empowering IT departments, ensuring they can deliver swift and effective support essential for the success of modern enterprises.
Patrick Spencer
Analyst & Research Fellow, Info-Tech
Patrick Spencer
Analyst & Research Fellow, Info-Tech
Patrick Spencer is a research fellow at Info-Tech with 20 years of public sector experience, including working with Accenture, IBM, EY, Deloitte, Cisco, and KPMG. His expertise includes digital transformation, AI, smart cities and communities, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and business architecture. He has written on digital transformation, cloud computing, the Internet of Things, and the future of work. Spencer holds an MBA and MPA and is pursuing a PhD in public policy with a focus on AI. He frequently speaks at executive briefings and conferences.
Paula Wagner
CIO, Mansfield Energy
Paula Wagner
CIO, Mansfield Energy
As CIO of Mansfield Energy, Paula Wagner oversees the comprehensive technology organization with a holistic management approach, ensuring all organizational goals are met. She integrates secure, compliant, and cost-effective IT operations with financial management, governance, risk, and cybersecurity. Renowned for transforming technology into business value and fostering innovation, Wagner inspires teams to excel. Her career reflects a steadfast commitment to excellence, driving innovation and growth. Leading diverse teams in software development, cybersecurity, infrastructure, product management, and project management, Wagner aligns IT strategies with business objectives, driving technological, business, and commercial advancements at Mansfield Energy.
Phil Bode
Principal Advisory Director, Info-Tech
Phil Bode
Principal Advisory Director, Info-Tech
Phil Bode is Principal Advisory Director at Info-Tech, where he specializes in vendor management and contract review. With over two decades of experience, Bode has helped hundreds of organizations create and improve their vendor management initiatives. He is also a published author and a frequent speaker on IT procurement topics.
Priscilla Tsang
Deputy CISO, New York MTA
Priscilla Tsang
Deputy CISO, New York MTA
Priscilla Tsang is the Deputy CISO of Cybersecurity Risk, Governance and Compliance for the State of New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). As a principal direct report to the CISO, she drives the overall cybersecurity strategy and key initiatives across the MTA and with external government agencies and other organizations.
R.C. Woodson
SVP & CIO, Bristol Bay Native Corporation
R.C. Woodson
SVP & CIO, Bristol Bay Native Corporation
R.C. Woodson has over 35 years of experience in the IT industry, with over 25 years of senior executive experience in providing technology solutions to organizations. Currently, he is responsible for establishing, planning, and administering the overall Information Technology strategy, policies, and goals for Bristol Bay Native Corporation (BBNC).
Reiaz Samji
Executive Counselor, Info-Tech
Reiaz Samji
Executive Counselor, Info-Tech
As a client-centric strategist with strong organizational acumen, Reiaz Samji has been working with C-suite executives and managers to help navigate the integration of changing technology with business strategy, by leveraging his 25+ years of management consulting and industry experience. Prior to his current role, he was a Managing Director for Info-Tech’s IT Strategy and IT Infrastructure practices as well as launching and leading the IT Security, Risk & Compliance consulting practice. Before joining Info-Tech, he worked at Deloitte as a senior practitioner in customer and channel strategy while also supporting functional reengineering and ERP systems implementations for Finance, HR, Sales, and Marketing/CRM. Samji has an MBA from the University of Notre Dame and an undergraduate degree from Western University.
Rob Croston
Senior Director, IT Strategy and Business Office (Chief of Staff), Mark Anthony Group
Rob Croston
Senior Director, IT Strategy and Business Office (Chief of Staff), Mark Anthony Group
Rob Croston is an accomplished IT executive with over two decades of experience in strategic leadership, IT transformation, and program management. He currently serves as the Senior Director of IT Strategy and Business Office at Mark Anthony Group. Previously, Croston held leadership roles at Ritchie Bros, including Director of Product Management for Team Member Experience and Director of the Enterprise Project Management Office.
Rob Meikle
Executive Counselor, Info-Tech
Rob Meikle
Executive Counselor, Info-Tech
Rob Meikle is an Executive Consultant, Keynote Speaker, and Board Advisor to several emerging technology organizations. Meikle is the former CIO for City of Toronto and the City of Brampton, Ontario, Canada, where he created high-performance teams to deliver innovative and transformational solutions. His leadership experience spans the private, public, and not-for-profit sectors. He is actively involved in his local community, fostering sustainable inter-generational social impact. An international award-winning CIO who was twice featured on the cover of the Canadian CIO Magazine, Meikle made history as the first and only Canadian municipal CIO to be named on the prestigious global CIO 100 honoree list. He has also received the Global Computerworld Premier 100 IT Leadership Award and the National Government (GTEC) Next Generation Leadership Awards.
Rob Redford
Practice Lead, Info-Tech
Rob Redford
Practice Lead, Info-Tech
Rob Redford is Practice Lead for Info-Tech’s Industry team, focusing on technology and digital transformation. Prior to Info-Tech, Redford spent nearly 25 years at a major Canadian bank, where he held leadership roles in strategy, product management, and market research. He has received numerous awards for his work in research and marketing.
Robert Garmaise
VP, AI Research, Info-Tech
Robert Garmaise
VP, AI Research, Info-Tech
Robert was most recently the Chief Innovation Officer at Fasken, where he was responsible for transforming firm operations by pinpointing the products, process improvements, and business model changes that would best position Fasken for future success. Robert has led major business transformation projects and held senior positions at McKinsey, Microsoft, Workbrain Corporation, Blockbuster Canada, and TheGuarantors. Robert holds an undergraduate degree in Mathematics from Harvard University and an MBA from Northwestern University.
Ron Solomon
CIO, Baton Rouge Community College
Ron Solomon
CIO, Baton Rouge Community College
Ronald Solomon, CIO at Baton Rouge Community College, has over 25 years of extensive IT experience. His proficiency in project management, databases, networks, and systems has been refined through his expertise in various other industries, such as oil and gas and healthcare.
Rory Richardson
Director, Next Generation Developer Experience, GenAI GTM
Rory Richardson
Director, Next Generation Developer Experience, GenAI GTM
As the GTM Director for AWS Next Generation of Developer Experiences, Rory plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of cloud development. With over a decade of experience at AWS, she has spearheaded go-to-market strategies across a diverse range of technologies, from non-relational databases to pioneering serverless computing solutions. Driven by a passion for enabling innovation through cutting-edge cloud technologies, Rory's current focus lies in leveraging the transformative power of Generative AI to redefine the role of developer tools. Her vision and leadership have been instrumental in introducing new cloud capabilities that expand the possibilities for developers building on AWS Services. Throughout her tenure, Rory has consistently demonstrated a knack for bringing innovative ideas to life, empowering developers to push the boundaries of what's possible in the cloud. Her commitment to staying ahead of the curve has positioned AWS as a frontrunner in delivering best-in-class developer experiences.
Ryan Brunet
Principal Research Director, Info-Tech
Ryan Brunet
Principal Research Director, Info-Tech
Ryan Brunet is a Principal Research Director at Info-Tech, specializing in AI, Machine Learning, and Data Science. With over 13 years of experience, Brunet has helped organizations develop their AI/ML strategies and mature their data science functions. He holds an MSc in Artificial Intelligence and an MA in Behavioral Economics.
Safayat Moahamad
Research Director, Security & Privacy, Info-Tech
Safayat Moahamad
Research Director, Security & Privacy, Info-Tech
Safayat Moahamad is an accomplished Information Privacy Professional with over 5 years of experience in privacy, legal, and compliance fields. With a keen focus on global privacy and cybersecurity trends, Moahamad is a resolute advocate of privacy by design and ethical AI. He is committed to helping organizations implement privacy management programs that align with global privacy laws, regulations, and standards. As a member of the Honorable Society of Lincoln’s Inn, he was called to the Bar of England & Wales following completion of the LL.B. program at the University of London. Moahamad has been honored as a Fellow of Information Privacy (FIP) by the IAPP upon achieving his CIPP/C and CIPM designations.
Sai Ravichandran
Director of IT, The Morton Arboretum
Sai Ravichandran
Director of IT, The Morton Arboretum
Sai Ravichandran is an information technology executive with experience in not for profit and academic environments for over 20 years. She is currently the Director of Information Technology at the Morton Arboretum. She directs the digital and technology strategy and is responsible for enterprise systems and applications, data management, information security, communication, and collaboration systems infrastructure. Before the Arboretum, she worked at Western Michigan University and the Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center. She holds a Bachelor's and Master's in Electrical Engineering from Anna University, India, and a Master's in Computer Engineering from Western Michigan University.
Sallie Fulsom Wright
Executive Counselor, Info-Tech
Sallie Fulsom Wright
Executive Counselor, Info-Tech
Sallie Fulsom Wright, BS, MA, CISSP, has 30+ years of experience in information technology executive leadership in multiple industries including manufacturing, higher education, government, energy, mining, to name a few. She has been both a CIO and a CISO, building security organizations for tier 1 research universities. She is a mentor, coach, teacher, and speaker/moderator serving on many boards both within the technology community of Atlanta and others. Wright is currently an Executive Counselor for Info Tech working with CIOs, CISOs, and other Executives to move their organizations to the next level of excellence.
Sandi Conrad
Principal Advisory Director, Infrastructure & Operations, Info-Tech
Sandi Conrad
Principal Advisory Director, Infrastructure & Operations, Info-Tech
Sandi has over 30 years of experience in the technology sector and has developed a wealth of expertise in IT Operations and Service Management. Throughout her career, Sandi has demonstrated a strong commitment to helping organizations optimize their IT investments and achieve operational efficiency without losing sight of the importance of customer experience. She is known for her ability to analyze complex IT environments and develop practical solutions that deliver measurable results. Sandi holds an Executive MBA from the University of Fredericton, is an ITIL Master, and is a Certified ITAM Practitioner. In her spare time, she’s investigating the potential use of technology in beekeeping.
Sandra Jeffries-Perry
Director and CIO, Shelby County Government
Sandra Jeffries-Perry
Director and CIO, Shelby County Government
Sandra Jeffries-Perry is the Chief Information Officer and Director for Shelby County Government, the first African American Female to hold this position. She is a thought leader with 20+ years of experience in the Information Technology industry. Jeffries-Perry provides strategic leadership to the Information Technology Services Division, directing technology services for Shelby County Government. Her numerous technology and business certifications and accolades, including being named Memphis’ Public Sector CIO of the Year and, most recently, Tennessee Public Sector CIO of the Year, reflect her unwavering commitment to her work.
Sarah Pletcher
Executive Counselor, Info-Tech
Sarah Pletcher
Executive Counselor, Info-Tech
Sarah Pletcher is an Executive Counselor at Info-Tech, partnering with CIOs to enhance business value through IT strategies and digital transformations. With nearly 30 years of IT leadership experience, Pletcher has expertise in governance, risk management, and IT operational effectiveness. She was recognized as one of 2023’s Top Women that Lead in Technology.
Scott Bickley
Practice Lead & Principal Research Director, Info-Tech
Scott Bickley
Practice Lead & Principal Research Director, Info-Tech
Scott Bickley is a Practice Lead & Principal Research Director focused on Vendor Management and Contract Review. Bickley has extensive experience in technology contract review and negotiation, ITAM, SAM, and technology procurement, as well as a deep background in operations, engineering, and quality systems management. Bickley provides IT leaders with the guidance, analysis, and tools they need to ensure their technology contracts are thoroughly vetted, benchmarked, and optimized. He has worked with clients to effectively drive down purchase costs and negotiate mutually agreeable terms and conditions, resulting in win-win vendor-customer relationships. He also assists clients in developing their approach to vendor management relations and software compliance defense actions for accountable partner relationships and a defensible IT deployment environment.
Scott Magerfleisch
Executive Counselor, Global Services, Info-Tech
Scott Magerfleisch
Executive Counselor, Global Services, Info-Tech
Almost 30 years of experience in IT has taught Scott that one needs to learn, develop, and nurture to succeed. Scott has led IT organizations in multiple municipalities and has a track record of developing a high-trust culture where trust was previously lacking. Leadership development and empowerment are two of his most sought-after accomplishments in any organization. Scott was instrumental in the City of Greeley, incentivizing a third provider for municipal broadband in Greeley and the region, developing repeatable agreements, and providing pro-bono work to surrounding municipalities. On a personal level, Scott has been involved with the 501st Legion (an international Star Wars Costuming organization) for over 17 years, feeding his love for Star Wars and his commitment to community and charity.
Scott Mullan
Vice President, Contract, Cost Optimization & Vendor Management, Info-Tech
Scott Mullan
Vice President, Contract, Cost Optimization & Vendor Management, Info-Tech
Scott has decades of experience in IT executive sales leadership, sales management, sales, consulting, and business proprietorship. Before starting his own IT vendor cost optimization company, he served as VP of Gartner’s CFC IT Cost Optimization and negotiation assistance practice. When it comes to enterprise-scale IT projects, securing a fair and favorable deal is often challenging. Disparate prices and low transparency make cost optimization difficult, even under the best circumstances. Scott and his team are passionate about helping clients achieve the best IT vendor deals. Scott holds a BA in Business Management and Operations from Western Colorado University.
Scott Porter
Division President, Consulting, Info-Tech
Scott Porter
Division President, Consulting, Info-Tech
Scott Porter is Division President for Consulting at Info-Tech, with extensive experience in public safety and IT systems. Prior to joining Info-Tech, Porter served as Chief Information Officer for the City of Los Angeles Fire Department and spent over two decades consulting with public and private sector clients.
Scott West
CIO, WA Department of Ecology
Scott West
CIO, WA Department of Ecology
Scott West is a seasoned technology expert and has served the State of Washington in a variety of roles. West brings considerable expertise in operations, business development, and strategic planning. He is an innovative strategist transforming ideas into long-term plans with the drive to deliver on the most demanding projects. West has built his own technology companies and served on the advisory board of multiple start-ups. He is the chair of the Information Professional Management Association and a guest instructor at UW. When West is not playing with new technology, he spends his time being creative. He is a published horror author with two new books coming to print this year and is currently working on a movie script.
Shashi Bellamkonda
Principal Research Director, Software Reviews, Info-Tech
Shashi Bellamkonda
Principal Research Director, Software Reviews, Info-Tech
Shashi Bellamkonda is a renowned AI & Marketing Strategist and Principal Research Director at Info-Tech. With 20 years of tech marketing experience, Bellamkonda has served as CMO for several startups and has been widely recognized for his work in AI marketing strategies. His research has been published in leading journals and referenced by many authors.
Sherwick Min
Technical Counselor, Executive Services, Info-Tech
Sherwick Min
Technical Counselor, Executive Services, Info-Tech
As Technical Counselor for Data & Analytics, Sherwick Min is responsible for providing tailored strategic and technical guidance helping clients optimize their data & analytics practices throughout their data-driven journey. Over the last 20 years, Min has helped the world’s most recognizable brands from Nike to Netflix acquire and engage their audiences through a deeper understanding of each customer’s journey. He has worked as a trusted advisor, enterprise software vendor and enterprise IT leader across industries spanning retail, e-commerce, media & entertainment, real estate, and legal, inspiring organizations to deliver beyond expectation. Min has a PhD in Behavioral Sciences, studying pronghorn antelope in the Colorado Rockies.
Sheryl Peter-Kirton
Chief, Digital Programming, Bank of Barbados
Sheryl Peter-Kirton
Chief, Digital Programming, Bank of Barbados
Sheryl Peter-Kirton has been the Chief, Digital Programming with the Digital Transformation Unit (DTU) of the Governor’s Office since 2020 and a member of the Bank’s Management Team since 2009. She leads the team responsible for streamlining the Bank’s enterprise-wide digital transformation initiatives.
Stacey-Ann Farquharson
Head of HR Strategy, Bank of Jamaica
Stacey-Ann Farquharson
Head of HR Strategy, Bank of Jamaica
Stacey-Ann Farquharson is a senior human resource practitioner with over 20 years’ experience in the field. She currently oversees the Bank of Jamaica’s organizational development and HR planning functions. She has led key strategic projects for the Bank, including revamping the compensation philosophy and program, revising the High-Level Organization Structure, and introducing a Policy Governance Framework to support enhance policy management.
Stefanos Makris
IT Infrastructure, Operations, and Security Leader, Emco Corporation
Stefanos Makris
IT Infrastructure, Operations, and Security Leader, Emco Corporation
Over his 30-year career within information technology, Makris has held senior leadership roles within national and global organizations including Emco Corporation, Cineplex Digital Media, Sandvine Inc., Comcast Corporation, and Ontario Power Generation. Over this time, he has been fortunate to have had diverse roles developing, delivering, securing, and operating technology solutions and services critical to the business success of the external and internal customers he services.
Steve Hodges
Chief Information Security Officer, State of Georgia
Steve Hodges
Chief Information Security Officer, State of Georgia
Steve Hodges serves as the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for the State of Georgia, where he leads the charge in safeguarding critical digital assets and infrastructure against cyber threats. With a career spanning more than three decades in information technology and cybersecurity, Hodges brings significant experience and expertise to his role. Hodges has held various leadership roles in both the public and private sectors, honing his skills in risk management, compliance, and incident response. Prior to becoming the State CISO, he served as the Disclosure Officer and senior IT Security Manager for the Department of Revenue. Early in his career, Hodges worked with a talented group of people to develop one of the first commercially marketed disk encryption and access control systems for early IBM-compatible computers.
Terrence Panchoo
Head of Information Technology, Proman
Terrence Panchoo
Head of Information Technology, Proman
Terrence Panchoo is a technologist at heart whose focus is on providing innovative, cost-effective solutions that match business requirements. He has spent the last 22+ years within the Energy and Petrochemical sectors in varying senior roles, which have allowed for the development of a high level of diversity and skill.
Thomas Randall
Advisory Director, AI Research, Info-Tech
Thomas Randall
Advisory Director, AI Research, Info-Tech
Thomas is a certified project manager and senior business analysis professional. He specializes in B2B consulting for technology market evaluation and procurement, with a focus on customer experience solutions. Thomas coordinates product lifecycle management for Info-Tech’s AI Marketplace, providing solution analysis for buyers and competitive intelligence for sellers. A thought-leading industry analyst, Thomas has been quoted in Forbes, CIO Magazine, Computer World, and CIO Dive, among others. His accreditations include a PMP, Microsoft 365 Certification, and a Ph.D. in Political Science.
Tim Moody
Chief Technology Officer, City of Savannah
Tim Moody
Chief Technology Officer, City of Savannah
Tim Moody has served as the Chief Technology Officer for the City of Savannah since February 2020. Previously, he was Chief Information Officer at several universities within the University System of Georgia during his 10-year career in higher education. Moody began his IT career in 1995 in the private sector, working in publishing and retail. His diverse experience across private and public sectors gives him a unique perspective on the role of technology. Having worked in various IT positions, from Network Administrator to C-level roles, Moody is driven by a passion for delivering excellent customer experiences.
Tom Larson
Principal Research Director, IT Financial Management, Info-Tech
Tom Larson
Principal Research Director, IT Financial Management, Info-Tech
As the Principal Research Director for the IT Financial Management group, Tom Larson specializes in the IT Spend & Staff Benchmark service. With over two decades of experience in benchmarking and the Professional Services Industry, Larson has a deep understanding of driving client success through strategic solutions and transformative processes with Fortune 1000 clients. Larson’s experience also includes serving as Vice President in various capacities, notably in the benchmark space where he played pivotal roles in reshaping businesses, expanding client portfolios, and driving revenue growth along with day-to-day operational management while delivering data analysis results to clients.
Tom O’Connor
VP of Technology Operations, SASCU Credit Union
Tom O’Connor
VP of Technology Operations, SASCU Credit Union
Tom O’Connor is the VP of Technology Operations at SASCU Credit Union in British Columbia, Canada. O’Connor has over 20 years of international experience in senior IT roles across education, logistics, professional services, and financial services. He is passionate about leading-edge technology and focuses on empowering ‘citizen developers’ to leverage their business insights for creating competitive advantages (and doing pretty cool stuff at the same time).
Tom Zehren
Chief Executive Officer, Info-Tech
Tom Zehren
Chief Executive Officer, Info-Tech
Tom Zehren is the Chief Executive Officer of Info-Tech Research Group. Prior to joining Info-Tech initially as the firm’s Chief Product Officer in 2022, Tom spent a decade with McKinsey & Company. He holds a summa cum laude Ph.D. and was faculty in Technology Management at the Technical University of Dortmund, Germany. He has been a pro bono advisor to Ashoka Globalizer Summit Fellows and other fast-growing technology firms and VC funds across the US, Canada, and Germany for more than a decade.
Torri Martin
CIO, Atlanta Housing
Torri Martin
CIO, Atlanta Housing
Torri Martin is the Chief Information Officer for Atlanta Housing. He previously led the Office of Financial Systems Services for the City of Atlanta and served as Senior Vice President and CIO for WMATA, overseeing a $2.4B transit authority.
Tracy-Lynn Reid
AVP, Research Shared Services & Talent, Info-Tech
Tracy-Lynn Reid
AVP, Research Shared Services & Talent, Info-Tech
Tracy-Lynn Reid is the Associate Vice President of Research Shared Services & Talent at Info-Tech. With a background in strategic HR and leadership development, Reid has worked across both public and private sectors. She holds a Master of Human Resource Management and is a Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL).
Valence Howden
Principal Analyst, Info-Tech
Valence Howden
Principal Analyst, Info-Tech
Valence Howden is an international speaker and distinguished Principal Analyst at Info-Tech with over 30 years of experience in optimizing organizations through improving their governance, strategies, operating models, and risk management practices. Howden is a 2023 and 2024 HDI Top 25 Global Thought Leader in Service Management, member of the global SIAM community of practice, and the Standards Council of Canada Chair, and ISO voting member and delegate for Canada for the IT Governance, Service Management, and Business Process Management international standards.
Vicki van Alphen
Executive Counselor, Global Services, Info-Tech
Vicki van Alphen
Executive Counselor, Global Services, Info-Tech
As an Executive Counselor, Vicki serves as the trusted advisor to CIO clients and their teams. Her areas of focus include leadership development, professional brand, communication skills, strategy, change management, stakeholder engagement, team effectiveness, and organizational health. Vicki believes that strong leaders, effective teams, and healthy organizations are necessary to achieve results in today’s environment of exponential change. Vicki’s highly collaborative approach encourages client leaders to increase their self-awareness, address their blind spots, and enhance their strengths.
Vimal Vyas
CDME, VP of Data, Security and Digital Innovation, Visit Raleighs
Vimal Vyas
CDME, VP of Data, Security and Digital Innovation, Visit Raleighs
Vimal Vyas is Vice President of Data, Security and Digital Innovation for the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau. As digital innovation VP, he is responsible for the Bureau’s integrated digital efforts, including digital product (web/mobile) development, data integration, cloud-based software solutions, infrastructure, content/Internet marketing technologies, artificial intelligence, and business intelligence. In 2023, Vyas earned Destinations International’s Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME) credential, which signals the destination marketing industry’s highest educational achievement. He currently serves as Co-Chair for Destinations International’s Marketing Professional Task Force and is a member of the Business Operations Professionals Task Force and Social Inclusion Committee.
Vincent Mirabelli
Principal Research Director, Applications, Info-Tech
Vincent Mirabelli
Principal Research Director, Applications, Info-Tech
Vincent brings a background in strategic business analysis and continuous improvement gained over nearly 20 years in the public and private sectors. He is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP®), Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP®), a Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt, and has certifications in Design Thinking and Innovation, Change Management, Cybersecurity, and Lego Serious Play Methods. A highly sought-after keynote speaker, Vince has been named a top-10 thought leader on culture, change, and business management by Thinkers360 and is an instructor on the LinkedIn Learning platform. Vince has a degree from York University in Law & Society and Political Science, with a focus on International Relations and Political Economies.
Wally Wilinsky
CIO, Leonardo DRS
Wally Wilinsky
CIO, Leonardo DRS
Wally leads the Information Technology organization of Leonardo DRS, providing services to all domestic LDRS locations with oversight of Canada and Israel locations. Wally has 30+ years of experience in DoD business and has held technical and leadership positions in R&D, Engineering, Manufacturing Planning, Supply Chain as well as Information Technology.
Yasemin Sezer
Executive Counselor, Global Services, Info-Tech
Yasemin Sezer
Executive Counselor, Global Services, Info-Tech
Yasemin joined Info-Tech with over 30 years of experience in Wealth Management, Retail Banking, and Insurance. She established her brand as an influential technology leader with delivery excellence. Yasemin has a BSc in Electronic Engineering, and in 2019, she was recognized as one of the Top 100 Powerful Women in Canada for Science and Technology. She is a Board Director at the CIO Association of Canada, chair at Emmy Noether Council of Perimeter Institute, an influential member of various CIO forums, and is frequently invited as a panelist/speaker. She has led DEI initiatives and affinity groups supporting career progression for Women in Technology.
Youssef Kamar
Director, Consulting, Info-Tech
Youssef Kamar
Director, Consulting, Info-Tech
Youssef Kamar is a Director in Info-Tech’s Consulting Services, specializing in organizational transformation and HR strategy. With over 10 years of consulting experience, Kamar has worked with clients in Canada, the US, and abroad. He holds multiple degrees in Science, Business Administration, International Business, and Management.
Watch the LIVE 2024 Keynotes
LIVE 2024 Agenda
*Agenda is subject to change.
| Start | Session Type/Category | Track | Role | Session Title |
| 7:00 AM | Registration and Breakfast | Registration & Breakfast |
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| 8:30 AM | Welcome to Nevada and Opening Remarks | Welcome and Opening RemarksSpeakers: |
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| 8:45 AM | Feature Keynote (mainstage) | Exponential IT Principles | All Roles | Exponential IT in Motion: Transform Your Organization by Transforming ITAt LIVE 2023, Info-Tech introduced the concept of Exponential IT – the response required from IT necessary to keep up with the accelerating rate of change of technological advancement. This groundbreaking concept resonated with attendees, and in the last year we have researched and explored the impact of recent tech change on the IT capability stack. This session will present an overview of our findings and will help you transform your organization by transforming your IT department to keep pace with the law of accelerating returns. Speakers: |
| 9:15 AM | Feature Keynote (mainstage) | Exponential IT Principles | All Roles | Bending the Exponential IT Curve: Exciting Advancements in IT Process ImprovementWith exponential technologies bringing the promise of disruptive capabilities for the enterprise, IT leaders need to lean into the curve and extract value from accelerating technology advancements. In this session, we will highlight some of the most convincing near-term technology advancements that will change how IT operates and brings accelerated value to the enterprise. Learn how you can leverage Info-Tech’s actionable Exponential IT framework to help IT embrace exponential technologies and embark on the Exponential IT journey. Speakers: |
| 9:45 AM | Guest Feature Lightning Talks (mainstage) | Women Leading IT | All Roles | Confidence BuildingSpeaker: Rishma Khimji, CTO at Harry Reid International Airport |
Mindset MattersSpeaker: Tonya Digiorno, Director of Information Technology at El Dorado County, CA |
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Doing BetterSpeaker: Alia Mendonsa |
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Creating Career OpportunitiesSpeaker: Beth Neeley, CIO at AZ Department of Education |
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What's Missing?Speaker: Scott Magerfleisch |
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| 10:15 AM | Networking Break | Networking Break |
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| 10:30 AM | Workshop | Adaptive IT Leadership | Security & Privacy | Cybersecurity Workforce Development (CWD) Lab Demo: Penetration Testing With SPARTAJoin this workshop to learn how to use the SPARTA network infrastructure penetration testing tool to automate security and vulnerability assessments. Speakers: |
| AI Marketplace | All Roles | Build Your AI Strategy and RoadmapWhat does your AI-powered future look like? Join this interactive session to learn how to create an effective AI strategy and roadmap to both maximize your returns and mitigate risks with your AI investments. Speakers: |
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| AI Marketplace | All Roles | Govern the Use of AI Responsibly With a Fit-for-Purpose StructureJoin us for this interactive session as we walk through how to implement AI governance to ensure the investments you make, the risks you accept, and the resources you apply to AI projects are aligned to organizational value. We'll explore the key steps to building a structured approach to AI governance to help your organization transparently deliver effective and human-centric AI. Speakers: |
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| Industry Panel & Roundtable | Exponential IT Principles | All Roles | Priorities for Adopting an Exponential IT Mindset in ManufacturingThe trajectory of technology is accelerating. IT leaders need to adopt an Exponential IT mindset to champion innovation, guide their organizations through technology-driven transformations, and improve operational efficiencies. Join this panel and roundtable discussion to learn from Info-Tech and your peers how Exponential IT will play a pivotal role in transformation and how you can lead change within your IT organization. Speakers: |
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| All Roles | Priorities for Adopting an Exponential IT Mindset in Gaming, Hospitality, and SportsThe trajectory of technology is accelerating. IT leaders need to adopt an Exponential IT mindset to champion innovation, guide their organizations through technology-driven transformations, and improve operational efficiencies. Join this panel and roundtable discussion to learn from Info-Tech and your peers how Exponential IT will play a pivotal role in transformation and how you can lead change within your IT organization. Speakers: |
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| All Roles | Priorities for Adopting an Exponential IT Mindset in Utilities, Energy, and Natural ResourcesThe trajectory of technology is accelerating. IT leaders need to adopt an Exponential IT mindset to champion innovation, guide their organizations through technology-driven transformations, and improve operational efficiencies. Join this panel and roundtable discussion to learn from Info-Tech and your peers how Exponential IT will play a pivotal role in transformation and how you can lead change within your IT organization. Speakers: |
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| Breakout | Exhibitors | Infrastructure & Operations | NinjaOne Session: Drive Efficiency & Risk Reduction Through IT AutomationAs IT leaders, you're constantly battling to balance soaring security concerns with the need for efficient IT operations. This session explores how a unified IT management platform drives automation, visibility, and control across your entire IT estate. By unifying and automating key endpoint management workflows, a unified IT management platform frees up your IT team from repetitive tasks, strengthens security, and improves productivity across IT teams and end users while streamlining workflows and reducing costs. Speakers: |
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| Exhibitors | Contract, Cost Optimization & Vendor Management | US Cloud Session: Solving the Microsoft Support Problem: How to Choose the Right Alternative to Microsoft UnifiedMicrosoft's decision to replace its Premier Support model with Unified Support has been a costly one for many enterprises. Companies shifting from Premier to Unified have seen price increases of 200% in year one and increases ranging from 20% to 50% year over year thereafter. Additionally, an “unlimited” service offering from Unified, coupled with 2023 layoffs, has driven significant support deterioration. Speakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | Security & Privacy | You've Been Hacked, Now What?Cyber hacks and data breaches are happening to all types of organizations these days. The common saying is "There are two types of organizations: those that have been hacked, and those that will be hacked." Join this session to learn how to respond if you find yourself at the unfortunate receiving end of a cyber hack or data breach. Speakers: |
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| Roundtable | Adaptive IT Leadership | CIO | The Retention Reckoning: Trying to Keep IT Talent Is the Wrong GoalLong-term
employee retention is a thing of the past, yet IT leaders continue to let the
risk of employee turnover push them into inauthentic and ineffective efforts
toward employee recognition, wellbeing, flexibility, and engagement. In this
roundtable, our experts will discuss: Speakers: |
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| Client Panel | AI Marketplace | All Roles | Empowering Your Responsible AI JourneyHear from our panel of experts as they explore the importance of responsible AI and share practical insights on how to establish the guardrails that organizations need to safely guide AI technology deployments. Speakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | Data & Analytics | A Chief Data Officer's Guide to Connecting Communities Through Data in Smart Cities and CommunitiesJoin this engaging panel discussion with Chief Data Officers from multiple smart cities and smart counties as they share their experiences and strategies to transform the lives of citizens with data. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote (mainstage) | Exponential IT Principles | All Roles | 2025 IT Talent Trends: Prepare for the Year AheadIn this keynote presentation, we will explore the top technology talent trends that IT leaders need to consider for 2025. From changing ESG regulations to political influence, economic uncertainty to influential technologies, the impact of the external landscape on tech talent is greater than ever before. IT leaders need to actively consider how the IT employee is attracted, hired, developed, engaged, managed, and retained in new and unlikely ways. Not only will we consider what these new ways are, but we will provide actionable steps for how IT leaders can get on the right side of each of these new talent trends. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote | AI Marketplace | All Roles | AI Influencers: What Really Matters?Think hard about the motivations of people talking to you about AI. There is a lot of noise out there – this talk will help you cut through the noise and chart your AI course using only the best information. Speakers: |
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| Adaptive IT Leadership | Enterprise Architecture | Chart Your Path: From Enterprise Architect to the Next CIOJoin this insightful session as we discuss the career trajectory from Enterprise Architect to CIO. We'll explore the pivotal role that EA plays in an organization's success and how your skills and experience set you up nicely for your next role as a CIO. Speakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | CIO | Crack the Code to Successful Transformation ManagementMost transformations
fail, not because they are not completed, but because the expected value can
rarely be realized. In fact, the risk of transformation failure can fall
anywhere between 70% and 95%. So how do you make sure that you are part of
the 5% to 30% that successfully realize the intended value from
transformation efforts? Proper change management will make or break your
transformation. Investing the appropriate time, funds, and resources to be
able to effectively manage change will ensure your organization achieves and
sustains the expected outcomes. Speakers: |
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| Lightning Round | Exponential IT Principles | CIO | Explore the Exponential IT Future for Strategy, Risk & GovernanceSpeakers: |
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Explore the Exponential IT Future for IT Financial ManagementSpeakers: |
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Explore the Exponential IT Future for Vendor ManagementSpeakers: |
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Explore the Exponential IT Future for Service Planning & ArchitectureSpeakers: |
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Explore the Exponential IT Future for People & LeadershipSpeakers: |
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| 11:05 AM | Breakout | Exhibitors | Enterprise Architecture | Orbus Session: Driving Business Value With Enterprise Architecture: Past, Present, and FutureDiscover the transformative power of enterprise architecture (EA) in this session featuring insights from Kunal Shah of Newmark and Brenda Cowie of Orbus Software. We will discuss the EA journey, including its inception, current framework, and future plans. Learn how EA can help achieve organizational goals and drive significant business value. We will also explore the next steps for the practice and learn how the concept of the digital twin of the organization (DTO) can be introduced. Speakers: |
| Infrastructure & Operations | Perforce Session: Stop the Scramble For Cloud Security – Automation Can HelpIt’s scary out there – AI is now contributing to a sharp rise in cyberattacks, burdening us with increased security demands and a never-ending cycle of compliance requirements. Now, factor in expanding infrastructure footprints, shrinking budgets, and a global cyber skills shortage, and you’ll quickly discover there is no way to be effective and establish continuous baseline compliance and recovery without automation. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote (mainstage) | Exponential IT Principles | All Roles | Stop Wasting Time Evaluating Commoditized ProductsThe lifecycle time from
innovation to commodity in most mainstream technology markets is rapidly
shrinking. In this technology keynote session, we'll explore how using a
standard market evaluation process can help IT leaders save time and
resources by changing the way they evaluate products in markets that are
rapidly becoming commoditized. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote | AI Marketplace | All Roles | Leverage Generative AI to Build a Personal BrandIn this technology keynote session, we'll share expert advice on how you can leverage generative AI to help you become a trusted thought leader and build your personal brand. Learn how to manage your brand and lean into AI and other tech tools to enhance and protect it. Speakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | Applications | Application Portfolio Assessment: Ask Your Users How They Really FeelWithout user feedback, you're flying blind. In this technology keynote session, we'll explore how Info-Tech's Application Portfolio Assessment diagnostic uncovers end-user sentiment toward your application portfolio and how these insights can inform your decisions to upgrade, maintain, or retire applications. Speakers: |
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| Adaptive IT Leadership | Security & Privacy | Grow Your Own Cybersecurity TeamThe demand for competent and qualified security professionals is higher than ever. Join this session to learn how to tap into your existing IT talent and grow your security team by leveraging Info-Tech's approach to cybersecurity workforce development. Speakers: |
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| Lightning Round | Exponential IT Principles | Security & Privacy | Explore the Exponential IT Future for Security & PrivacySpeakers: |
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| Applications | Explore the Exponential IT Future for ApplicationsSpeakers: |
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| Data & Analytics | Explore the Exponential IT Future for Data & AnalyticsSpeakers: |
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| Infrastructure & Operations | Explore the Exponential IT Future for Infrastructure & OperationsSpeakers: |
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| Project & Portfolio Management | Explore the Exponential IT Future for Project & Portfolio ManagementSpeakers: |
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| 11:40 AM | Breakout | Exhibitors | Enterprise Architecture | MEGA International Session: Architecture Value – Observations of Successful EA PracticesDrawing on real-world observations and
experiences, we will discuss the traits needed to ensure the right people are
taking the right steps to drive EA success. Speakers: |
| Security & Privacy | Access Point Consulting Session: AI-Driven Cybersecurity Leadership: Strategies for CIOs and CEOsThis session, "AI-Driven Cybersecurity Leadership: Strategies for CIOs and CEOs," will reveal the hard truth: if you're not leveraging AI in your cybersecurity strategy, you're already behind. We'll discuss how artificial intelligence enhances and revolutionizes cybersecurity and outline the critical steps leaders must take now to stay ahead. Speakers: |
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| Infrastructure & Operations | eProc Solutions Session: Resolving IT Crises Instantly – Transforming IT Efficiency and Business ContinuityJoin Oren Rosen, CEO of eProc Solutions, for an exclusive session tailored for CIOs and CTOs looking to revolutionize their IT service desks.
In this insightful presentation, Oren will:
Speakers: |
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| Applications | Modern Requirements Session: AI-Driven Azure DevOps – Shaping the FutureIntegrating AI with Azure DevOps can revolutionize how we build, deploy, and manage applications. This session will delve into the transformative impact of AI on Azure DevOps, highlighting its role in automating routine tasks, optimizing workflows, and enhancing decision-making processes. We'll explore how key AI-driven features can significantly boost productivity and efficiency with intelligent tools and how these advancements are becoming more accessible, driving smarter, more agile development practices. Attendees will learn how AI-driven Azure DevOps, powered by innovations like Copilot4DevOps and Codeless One, are not only improving the speed and quality of software delivery but also shaping the future of DevOps. Speakers: |
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| Member Value Session | All Tracks | All Roles | Get the Most Out of Your Info-Tech MembershipGet ready to discover the wide range of products and services included in your Info-Tech membership. In this informative session, we’ll help you unlock the power of your membership to boost the value to your organization. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote (mainstage) | Exponential IT Principles | CIO | Exponential IT: Safeguard Against Tomorrow's RisksHow can organizations prepare for
the surge of emerging technology risks? How can they mitigate risks they’ve
never seen before? Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote | AI Marketplace | CIO | Adapt Your Risk Management Practices for AIAs AI technology rapidly integrates into every aspect of our lives, from business operations to daily personal tasks, it brings a host of new opportunities and, with them, unprecedented risks. In this talk, we'll dive into the heart of managing AI risks effectively, unveiling the principles, best practices, and tools essential for safeguarding against the unique challenges AI presents. Discover how to avoid common pitfalls, set realistic risk tolerances, and implement robust risk management strategies that keep pace with AI's evolution. Whether you're a business leader, a tech professional, or simply AI-curious, join us to equip yourself with the knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of AI risks confidently and turn potential vulnerabilities into opportunities for growth and innovation. Speakers: |
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| Exponential IT Principles | CIO | Organized Chaos: Enabling Innovation in an Exponential IT EraTake innovation beyond buzzword status at your organization by identifying how IT can enable the organization to succeed where it's failed previously. In this session, we'll consider new ways of working and approaches to prioritization that will set you up to deliver on strategic innovation. Speakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | Contract, Cost Optimization & Vendor Management | Microsoft Contract Optimization: Get the Most From Your InvestmentUnlock the full potential of your Microsoft contract. In this informative session, we'll share strategic insights and practical tips for navigating the complexities of your Microsoft contract. Speakers: |
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| Lightning Round | Exponential IT Principles | All Roles | For an Exponential IT Strategy, Consider Your AdversaryUnderstand what your organization has to do and why, to anticipate how IT must support it now and in the future. Speakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | All Roles | ERP Is a Commodity ProductERPs all have common functionality. Find the one that matches your key differentiators. Speakers: |
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| AI Marketplace | All Roles | Training ChatGPT Is Like Training Your DogPrompt engineering is harder than it looks, with lots of unexpected responses and behaviors. Learn how creating prompts for ChatGPT is not unlike training your dog. Speakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | All Roles | Manage Your Agile Product Backlog Like a Honey-Do ListMaximize value delivery for your stakeholders using a practical and easy-to-understand approach for prioritizing your product backlog. Speakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | Security & Privacy | A Quick Guide to Travel Risk Assessment and SecurityWhat type of international travel introduces risk to your employees and data? Many organizations have data and users who travel across international borders, and the novel risks associated with that travel go unaddressed and unknown. This talk will provide a framework and examples for how to assess, monitor, and manage cross-border security risk. Speakers: |
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| 12:05 PM | Networking Lunch | Lunch 1 |
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Cultural Kaleidoscope: A Special Lunch Hosted by the Black Professionals at Info-Tech ERGIndulge in a flavorful experience – join us for a delicious meal and engaging conversations as we gather to celebrate diversity, share insights, and strengthen connections. Whether you’re a member of the Black community or an ally, this lunch is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the richness of our collective backgrounds. |
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| 1:30 PM | Feature Keynote (mainstage) | Exponential IT Principles | All Roles | 2025 Tech Trends: What’s Coming and What To Do About ItUnderstand the opportunities and threats that will dominate the external landscape in 2025 and hear insights on how organizations will be impacted. Get an early glimpse at Info-Tech's annual Tech Trends report as we share insights from our Future of IT 2025 survey for the first time. Speakers: |
| 2:00 PM | Guest Feature Interview (mainstage) | Exponential IT Principles | All Roles | The Future of Code GenSpeakers: |
| 2:30 PM | Networking Break | Networking Break |
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| 3:00 PM | Workshop | Adaptive IT Leadership | CIO | Cultivating Psychological Safety to Enable High-Performing TeamsDon't miss this hands-on session to explore key concepts to help you navigate and lead employees through times of advancing technologies and change. Explore what fosters a culture that enables risk taking, sharing errors, and more critically, sharing diverse opinions. Take away insights and tactics to build a highly productive, inclusive team. Speakers: |
| Adaptive IT Leadership | All Roles | AI Workforce Development (AIWD) Lab Demo: Build Vs. Buy With Large Language AI ModelsDive into the decision-making process of choosing between open-source and third-party large language models (LLMs) when building your own AI chatbot. This lab provides a hands-on experience in creating a document-based chatbot using various LLMs. Learn to integrate advanced document processing capabilities into your chatbot while understanding the pros and cons of open-source and third-party LLMs for your specific use case. Speakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | Contract, Cost Optimization & Vendor Management | Don't Leave Vendor Relationships to Chance: Use a Strategic Approach to Improve RelationshipsVendor relationships can often mean the difference between a successful “project” and a failed one. If you want to maintain or improve your relationships with your vendors, learn how to turn that goal into an actionable plan. Leveraging Info-Tech's relationship improvement tool, you’ll learn how to think more objectively about relationships and how to create and implement a relationship strategy with each of your key vendors. Speakers: |
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| Industry Panel & Roundtable | Exponential IT Principles | All Roles | Priorities for Adopting an Exponential IT Mindset in Provider HealthcareThe trajectory of technology is accelerating. IT leaders need to adopt an Exponential IT mindset to champion innovation, guide their organizations through technology-driven transformations, and improve operational efficiencies. Join this panel and roundtable discussion to learn from Info-Tech and your peers how Exponential IT will play a pivotal role in transformation and how you can lead change within your IT organization. Speakers: |
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| Exponential IT Principles | All Roles | Priorities for Adopting an Exponential IT Mindset in Retail & WholesaleThe trajectory of technology is accelerating. IT leaders need to adopt an Exponential IT mindset to champion innovation, guide their organizations through technology-driven transformations, and improve operational efficiencies. Join this panel and roundtable discussion to learn from Info-Tech and your peers how Exponential IT will play a pivotal role in transformation and how you can lead change within your IT organization. Speakers: |
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| Breakout | Exhibitors | Security & Privacy | ThreatLocker Session: How to Create Successful Malware and How to Defend With Zero TrustIn a world where anyone can create successful malware or have AI generate it for them, it's important to know how malware can be successful so you can better defend your organization. Starting from a default-deny posture, learn how adopting zero trust principles can keep your data safe and operations running regardless of hacking attempts by man or machine. Speakers: |
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| Breakout | Exponential IT Principles | CIO | Building a Risk Roadmap to Prepare for the UnknownJoin us for an interactive
discussion on how you can begin to prepare your organization to respond to
emergent risks. Learn how to identify the opportunities in your risk
practices to move toward dynamic risk management. Speakers: |
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| Expert Panel | Systematic IT Excellence | Applications | Modernizing Government Core Applications – Part 1Legacy modernization continues to be a top priority for government organizations as they strive to deliver new capabilities. In this session, discuss and learn about what others are doing to ensure modernization success. Speakers: |
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| Roundtable | Systematic IT Excellence | Applications | Ask an Agilist: Share Your Agile Challenges With Our Panel of ExpertsBring us your real-life Agile challenges and our expert panel will leverage over a century of collective experience to offer suggestions and recommendations on how to overcome them. Speakers: |
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| Client Panel | Systematic IT Excellence | CIO | Cutting-Edge Technology Provider Transforms IT From Order Taker to Business EnablerFor over 50 years, Leonardo DRS has provided
cutting-edge defense and commercial technology and innovation to support the
U.S. military and other commercial customers.
CIO Wally Wilinsky has led the company’s IT efforts, transforming the
department’s role from order taker to business enabler. Through Wilinsky’s
proactive leadership, the IT department has centralized core infrastructure,
reduced spend by 40%, Speakers: |
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| Expert Panel | Women Leading IT | All Roles | Defining Your Professional PathJoin our expert panel to explore key aspects of career strategy and personal branding. Learn how to identify your strengths, define and manage your digital brand, and gain valuable insights into mapping your professional path. This discussion will equip you with practical tools and strategies to advance your career and build a strong personal brand. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote (mainstage) | Exponential IT Principles | CIO | Exponential IT: Elevate Your Service Capabilities to Drive Enterprise ValueJoin this informative technology keynote to learn why IT leaders must develop a future-oriented vision for their service strategy and elevate their service capabilities from a traditional, IT-centric focus to a holistic enterprise view with a focus on optimizing organizational value. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote | AI Marketplace | All Roles | Understand the AI Services IndustryOrganizations shouldn't try to take on all aspects of AI and Gen AI work themselves. Join this technology keynote session to learn about the emerging AI services industry. We'll explore this new industry across seven different functional levels according to our thought model, and review customers' needs, knowledge types, and business opportunities at each level. Speakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | All Roles | Info-Tech Diagnostics: Identify and Leverage Your StrengthsInfo-Tech Diagnostics are designed to help you identify your strengths as an IT organization as well as opportunities to leverage those strengths to become a better partner and leader within your organization. Join this session to learn more about Info-Tech's suite of diagnostics and how they can help you begin your systematic improvement journey. Speakers: |
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| Adaptive IT Leadership | All Roles | Reputation Equals RevenueReputation drives revenue, particularly in professional services where individual expertise is the product. This session examines the vital link between reputation and financial success, focusing on how professional conduct influences client perception and business or organizational outcomes. Participants will learn strategies to improve both personal and organizational reputations, enhancing client trust and revenue. The session underscores the importance of individual behavior in defining a firm's market position and value. Speakers: |
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| Lightning Round | AI Marketplace | Security & Privacy | Hacking the Neural Net: The Latest Security and Privacy Attacks Against Large Language ModelsJust how vulnerable are LLMs? This talk will describe the latest security and privacy threats to AI. Speakers: |
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| AI Marketplace | Security & Privacy | Deepfake-Powered Social Engineering Attacks – What, Me Worry?Seeing is no longer believing. Ensure your people, processes, and tools are adjusted accordingly. Speakers: |
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| AI Marketplace | Security & Privacy | How AI Is Being Used to Create and Counter (Dis/Mis)information(Dis/Mis)information is only getting worse. It's important for organizations to cover Gen AI in security awareness programs. Speakers: |
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| Exponential IT Principles | Project & Portfolio Management | Exponential IT: Affording Those Foundational Projects With the Strategy of OptionalityNow that you have convinced the C-suite of the need to prepare for Exponential IT, how do you justify the substantial IT investments that go with it? Explore the strategy of optionality as a way to manage technology expenses with rigor and flexibility. Speakers: |
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| Adaptive IT Leadership | All Roles | Riding the Career WaveWhat happens when you get to that mid-career egotism and how do you get out of it? Speakers: |
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| 3:35 PM | Breakout | Exhibitors | Enterprise Architecture | SAP LeanIX Session: Amplifying Business Agility Through Strategic Architecture: A Fireside Chat With SAP LeanIX and Five9Join Debra Radford, VP of IT Strategy & Operations at Five9, in this fireside chat as she explores managing enterprise architecture in a SaaS-rich environment. Gain insights into developing a solid information ecosystem using modern tools like SAP LeanIX and learn how application inventories can guide strategic decisions and robust portfolio management. Understand how capabilities-cost interplay can spot redundancies and consolidation opportunities. In this session, Debra shares strategies to maintain a streamlined architecture for sustainable growth and scalability in today's dynamic SaaS landscape. Don't miss this opportunity to learn about effective roadmapping and leveraging enterprise architecture for a competitive edge. Speakers: |
| Client Panel | Systematic IT Excellence | Applications | Modernizing Government Core Applications – Part 2Legacy modernization continues to be a top priority for government organizations as they strive to deliver new capabilities. In this session, discuss and learn about what others are doing to ensure modernization success. Speakers: |
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| Breakout | AI Marketplace | Applications | Get Started With AI in Requirements ManagementRequirements management will always need the human element. In this session, we examine the opportunity that AI creates for business analysts to focus on the activities that matter. Learn how to leverage AI to automate low-value requirements management activities, so you can free up capacity for higher-value work to be done. Speakers: |
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| Exponential IT Principles | CIO | Exponential IT: Reimagine Your Service StrategyIn this session, we'll examine why a traditional mindset and focus on delivering IT services to the organization will not support the fast-growing and evolving needs of customers and organizations in an Exponential IT future. You'll learn how to build a roadmap to elevate your service capabilities to deliver seamless enterprise services that drive organizational value. Speakers: |
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| Roundtable | Systematic IT Excellence | Infrastructure & Operations | Considerations and Contingencies in the Wake of Broadcom Acquiring VMwareBroadcom’s purchase of VMware is the most disruptive event to hit the IT infrastructure vendor ecosystem in the last ten years. If you stay, you face limited product choices, increased costs, and the specter of decreased support and product innovation. If you leave, where do you go? Public cloud? Hybrid cloud? Greenlake? Apex? Nutanix? Promox? Hyper-V? Scale.io? PoCs take time and the clock is ticking, but each option comes with its own set of operational and organizational risks for you to identify and mitigate. If all this looks unsurmountable, maybe staying and adapting to a higher cost model by extracting more value out of product platforms you’ve been forced to buy is the better course? We’ll bring some of the best questions about the practical effects of this acquisition and its impact on your cloud strategy, infrastructure roadmap, vendor management, and skills and training programs. We invite you and your peers at LIVE to come up with the best answers! Speakers: |
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| Client Panel | Systematic IT Excellence | Data & Analytics | Technical Counselor Impact in Data & Analytics TransformationAttend this informative panel to hear about the practical and high-quality deliverables that our technical counselors have helped expedite in the data & analytics space, featuring leaders in prominent organizations. Speakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | Security & Privacy | Success Stories: Achievements in Security and RiskJoin this engaging session to learn about the practical and high-quality deliverables that our technical counselors have helped expedite in the security & risk management space, featuring Jeff Aguilar from Los Angeles County. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote (mainstage) | Exponential IT Principles | CIO | Exponential IT: Discover Exponential IT's Next-Generation Operating ModelIT
leaders are being challenged to change the IT operating model to support
their evolving organization. With the emergence of new technologies, changing
expectations from customers and constituents, and services that require
cross-organization collaboration, IT has never been more important in
ensuring the organization's success in reaching its vision and objectives.
But, success in this exponential era will require the visualization and
implementation of a new IT operating
model. This model is broken into three sections: Speakers: |
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| Lightning Round | Exhibitors | Swimm: You Can Teach Old Code New Tricks – Modernizing Legacy CodeThis talk explores innovative approaches to managing and updating legacy codebases. We'll discuss how integrating modern documentation and learning tools can transform the way development teams handle older systems. Discover strategies to enhance productivity, streamline onboarding for new developers, and maintain code quality through continuous, real-time documentation practices. Learn techniques for automatically documenting existing complex systems and implementing effective knowledge preservation methods for future projects. Join us to unlock the potential of your legacy code and set the stage for more efficient, collaborative development processes. Speakers: |
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Chata.ai: The Future of Data Analytics: Proactive and Self-ServiceJoin us for an insightful session where we briefly explore the evolving landscape of data analytics and discover how proactive analytics and self-service tools are transforming the way organizations operate. Speakers: |
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PiLog Group: AI Lens - Human to Machine InterfaceAn application of conversational AI that establishes a human-centered approach for augmented data management practices, guided by queries related to subject matter expertise and descriptive & extended analysis.
Speakers: |
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Modern Requirements: Transforming DevOps With Copilot4DevOpsEfficient and effective DevOps practices are crucial for maintaining a competitive edge. In this session we explore how the AI tool for Azure DevOps – Copilot4DevOps – is revolutionizing the DevOps ecosystem by leveraging advanced AI capabilities. We'll delve into key features such as automated test script generation, intelligent elicitation and analysis, and seamless integration with Azure DevOps. Learn how Copilot4DevOps not only accelerates development cycles but also enhances collaboration, reduces errors, and improves quality and overall project outcomes. Witness the future of DevOps: empowering teams to achieve unprecedented levels of productivity and innovation. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote | Adaptive IT Leadership | CIO | From Perception to Reality: Strengthening the CIO BrandThis session explores the importance of the CIO Brand & Leadership Identity beyond just IT’s reputation – especially in managing wider expectations with Innovation. Although measuring IT satisfaction value is crucial, cultivating the CIO's personal brand is a distinct endeavor, pivotal in in any organization. There is an important distinction to be made between “brand” and “reputation”, or legacy IT perceptions – the former requiring alignment to the organization’s identity, values, and strategic direction for overall success. In the age of autonomization, it's essential for CIOs, and IT Leaders, in any organization to proactively communicate their achievements, align IT initiatives with business goals, and demonstrate how their contributions add to the firm's success. Building strong relationships with peers and stakeholders, actively participating in executive-level discussions, and showcasing the strategic value of IT are key to enhancing the CIO's brand and leadership identity. We will discuss strategies for CIOs to enhance their brand while complementing IT's operational success. Speakers: |
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| Exponential IT Principles | All Roles | Exponential IT: Gauge Your Exponential IT ReadinessIT leaders must respond now to exponential advancements in technology. Learn how to take the first steps in this must-attend keynote presentation. Gauge your organization’s readiness to adapt and thrive in an era of rapid technological advancement, and determine IT’s readiness to lead that transformation. Speakers: |
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| Lightning Round | AI Marketplace | All Roles | Does AI Need Knowledge?Processing huge amounts of data does not necessarily lead to knowledge creation. Speakers: |
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| AI Marketplace | AI's Role in Automating Knowledge Transfer/Knowledge RetentionSpeakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | Capability-Based Thinking and Planning: The Big ShiftWe need to reframe how we think of and make decisions about our value and the work we do. Speakers: |
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| Adaptive IT Leadership | Strategies for Boosting Stakeholder EngagementDiscover how to use the SCARF ® model for human behavior to ensure your communications are well-received and motivate key stakeholders to actively engage in your interactions. Speakers: |
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| AI Marketplace | Threats of Open Source AIOrganizations need new threat models to be ready for bad actors making use of open source AI models. Speakers: |
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| 4:10 PM | Breakout | Exhibitors | Data & Analytics | Semarchy Session: The OneBird Model – How Bird Construction Created a Master Data Management StrategyBird Construction, a leading provider of construction services for over 100 years, will discuss how Master Data Management made a huge impact on its business and internal processes. With thousands of vendors (almost 60,000) accumulated over the years, Bird was looking to improve internal processes, tackle key data quality concerns, and overcome data integration challenges. Speakers: |
| Breakout | Exhibitors | Infrastructure & Operations | Third Stage Session: How to Make Your ERP Implementation SuccessfulIn this session, we will discuss tips to make your ERP implementation and digital transformation more successful, including how to select and implement the best technology for your business. We will dive into change management, business process management, program management, and other success factors required for successful ERP implementations. Speakers: |
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| Member Value Session | All Tracks | All Roles | Get the Most Out of Your Info-Tech MembershipGet ready to discover the wide range of products and services included in your Info-Tech membership. In this informative session, we’ll help you unlock the power of your membership to boost the value to your organization. Speakers: |
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| Client Panel | Adaptive IT Leadership | CIO | How to Get on a BoardAs many CIOs and Technical Leaders look to the future and consider their "next after next," there appears to be a growing interest in continuing to support organizations through Board of Directors appointments. This panel is designed to explore the various aspects of becoming a Board Member, the types of Board appointments (Corporate, Non-Profit, Advisory, etc.), the responsibilities, and compensation. Speakers: |
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| Breakout | Adaptive IT Leadership | Enterprise Architecture | Develop Your Next Enterprise Architect Lead From In-House TalentOur Talent Trends Report says Enterprise Architecture Leads are among the hardest roles to recruit. Join this breakout session to learn how we can coach someone in your organization with potential to prepare them for the role you need. Speakers: |
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| AI Marketplace | Security & Privacy | Stay Ahead of Incoming AI Laws: Assess the Impact of AI on PrivacyAs AI and privacy evolve, adapting privacy impact assessments (PIAs) is essential, especially with laws such as the EU AI Act (of which initial provisions came into effect August 2, 2024) and numerous legislations under consideration globally. Expanding the PIA scope to include data governance for AI and ethics and taking a continuous improvement approach to risk assessment are crucial for a responsible AI implementation that is defensible against the scrutiny of future regulators. Join this session to learn best practices for assessing the privacy impacts of new AI technologies and obtain a preview of what’s required by the EU AI Act once the regulation comes into full effect August 2, 2026. Speakers: |
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| Exponential IT Principles | CIO | Discover Exponential IT's Next-Generation Operating ModelIT leaders are being
challenged to change the IT operating model to support their evolving
organization. With the emergence of new technologies, changing expectations
from customers and constituents, and services that require cross-organization
collaboration, IT has never been more important in ensuring the
organization's success in reaching its vision and objectives. But, success in
this exponential era will require the visualization and implementation of a
new IT operating model. This model is broken into three sections: Speakers: |
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| Roundtable | Systematic IT Excellence | All Roles | Tackling Technical Debt in GovernmentHow do we address the looming issue of technical debt in the face of constrained budgets and heightened IT delivery expectations? Join this interactive discussion on best practices for identifying and prioritizing technical debt. We will also discuss implications of technical debt on IT’s impact and ability to deliver value to its stakeholders and constituents. Speakers: |
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| Client Panel | Systematic IT Excellence | Security & Privacy | Learnings and Cautionary Tales From Real-World Zero Trust ImplementationsZero
trust is proving to be an exceptionally relevant approach for securing
against the cyber threats of 2024. However, most IT leaders who choose to
adopt zero trust are venturing into the unknown, as this security philosophy
is relatively new and continuing to evolve. Speakers: |
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| Exponential IT Principles | CIO | Operationalizing Exponential IT: The People, Culture, and Structure That Will Enable Your Digital JourneyThe Info-Tech consulting team has engaged with a number of clients both in public and private sector to deliver IT strategy and org design detailed reviews. In doing so, they have uncovered common threads, themes, and observations that reveal how our clients are working to push IT – and the organization as a whole – to the next level. Join this expert panel as they share their strategies for truly embracing what we know as "Exponential IT". Speakers: |
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| Expert Panel | Systematic IT Excellence | Contract, Cost Optimization & Vendor Management | Key Insights to Drive Successful Deals With Mega-Vendors: Vendor Contract & Cost Optimization – Part 1Gain critical insights for negotiating and optimizing contracts with large vendors in this first of a three-part expert panel discussion. We'll cover the strategies, techniques, and best practices you need to get the best deals and outcomes in your largest vendor partnerships. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote (mainstage) | Exponential IT Principles | Security & Privacy | Exponential IT: Build an Autonomous Security Delivery RoadmapArtificial intelligence (AI) is changing the game for information security leaders. AI offers the promise of autonomous cybersecurity capabilities that make real-time decisions about risk mitigation and defense, aligned to the organization’s risk tolerances. Join this session to learn how to build a progressive, increasingly autonomous information security program. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote | AI Marketplace | All Roles | Ready or Not: Assessing Your AI ReadinessYou are in charge of your
organization's AI transformation. You are now faced with the tension of
reconciling the marketing hype and realities of responsibly rolling out
AI. Speakers: |
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| Lightning Round | Systematic IT Excellence | CIO | Changing Dynamics in IT – Insights From CIO Business Vision Diagnostic DataSpeakers: |
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| Security & Privacy | Presenting Security to the BoardSpeakers: |
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| CIO | Experience Matters – Using XLAs EffectivelyUnderstand the value of experience and measure it to drive success. Speakers: |
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| CIO | IT Is the BusinessExamine the importance of IT working closely with the business to drive not only cost savings but revenue opportunities as well. Speakers: |
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| Infrastructure & Operations | Drive Value by Aligning the Data in Your CMDB to Use CasesRealize the full potential of a configuration management database (CMDB) by aligning data to support different use cases within the organization. Speakers: |
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| 4:10 PM | Technology Keynote | Exponential IT Principles | All Roles | The Future of Quantum and What to Do About ItSpeakers: |
| 4:45 PM | Guest Feature Keynote (mainstage) | AI Marketplace | All Roles | Gen AI Applied: How IT Will Be Impacted by Technology AdvancementSpeakers: |
| 5:45 PM | Reception | General Reception |
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| 6:00 PM | Reception | Healthcare Reception |
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Government Reception |
| Start | Session Type/Category | Track | Role | Session Title |
| 7:00 AM | Registration and Breakfast | Tom Zehren Registration & Breakfast |
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| 8:15 AM | Welcome and Opening Remarks | Welcome and Opening RemarksSpeakers: |
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| 8:30 AM | Feature Keynote (mainstage) | Leadership Summit: Systematically Improve your IT Department | All Roles | The CIO Playbook: 8 Secrets and 12 Steps to Systematically Achieve IT ExcellenceSpeakers: |
| 9:00 AM | Guest Feature Interview (mainstage) | Exponential IT Principles | Security & Privacy | Rethinking App Dev Security in the Age of Gen AISpeakers: |
| 9:30 AM | Guest Feature CIO Panel (mainstage) | Leadership Summit: Systematically Improve Your IT Department | CIO | Panel Discussion: The View From Our MembersSpeakers: |
| 10:00 AM | Networking Break | Networking Break |
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| 10:30 AM | Workshop | AI Marketplace | All Roles | Launch Your AI Proof of ValueIn this interactive workshop, we'll review how to assess the technical feasibility and business or organizational value of your AI initiatives before you make a significant investment. Speakers: |
| Systematic IT Excellence | CIO | Demonstrate Organizational Alignment With a Strategic Goals CascadeIn this session, our expert analysts will help you craft a "goals cascade" for use in your IT strategy document. We will quickly work through the process of gathering enough business context and details of new and existing IT initiatives to demonstrate how to achieve alignment. Speakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | Security & Privacy | Build a Business-Aligned Security RoadmapCommon security frameworks focus on operational controls, not business or organizational value. Join this informative session to learn how to tailor your security program to what makes your organization unique. Participate in a practical exercise with our security analysts who will show you how to quickly produce a high-quality security strategy. Speakers: |
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| Industry Panel & Roundtable | Exponential IT Principles | All Roles | Priorities for Adopting an Exponential IT Mindset in Financial Services & InsuranceThe trajectory of technology is accelerating. IT leaders need to adopt an Exponential IT mindset to champion innovation, guide their organizations through technology-driven transformations, and improve operational efficiencies. Join this panel and roundtable discussion to learn from Info-Tech and your peers how Exponential IT will play a pivotal role in transformation and how you can lead change within your IT organization. Speakers: |
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| Exponential IT Principles | All Roles | Priorities for Adopting an Exponential IT Mindset in GovernmentThe trajectory of technology is accelerating. IT leaders need to adopt an Exponential IT mindset to champion innovation, guide their organizations through technology-driven transformations, and improve operational efficiencies. Join this panel and roundtable discussion to learn from Info-Tech and your peers how Exponential IT will play a pivotal role in transformation and how you can lead change within your IT organization. Speakers: |
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| Breakout | Exhibitors | Data & Analytics | PiLog Group Session: Conversational AI-Driven Data Quality and GovernancePiLog's Lean Data Governance, a cutting-edge solution, integrates quality and governance rules directly into the Conversational AI (AI Lens). This all-in-one SaaS platform streamlines data ingestion, assessment, governance, and analytics, leveraging industry best practices and standards and harnessing the power of data science. Speakers: |
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| Exponential IT Principles | Security & Privacy | Build an Autonomous Security Delivery RoadmapArtificial intelligence (AI) is changing the game for information security leaders. AI offers the promise of autonomous cybersecurity capabilities that make real-time decisions about risk mitigation and defense, aligned to the organization’s risk tolerances. Join this session to learn how to build a progressive, increasingly autonomous information security program. Speakers: |
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| Expert Panel | Systematic IT Excellence | All Roles | Reimagining Case Management in Government – Part 1Cases are at the center of all government work. Modernizing case management and delivering it as a service will help to reimagine how end-user services are ultimately being delivered. Speakers: |
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| Breakout | Leadership Summit: Systematically Improve Your IT Department | CIO | Building Strategic Relationships: The CIO's Most Critical RoleBusiness or organizational satisfaction is IT’s most important measure of success. Aligning the organization’s expectations of IT and delivering on that mandate is key to satisfaction. This insightful keynote explores the pivotal role of the CIO in aligning IT objectives with organizational expectations, ensuring that technology serves as a cornerstone of business/organizational strategy. Discover the art of building, nurturing, and sustaining critical relationships across the C-suite, transcending the traditional boundaries between technical and non-technical domains. Speakers: |
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| Client Panel | Systematic IT Excellence | Infrastructure & Operations | Getting to Operational Automation at Scale With Benjamin Linares From StarbucksDon't miss this panel discussion featuring Ben Linares from Starbucks and Info-Tech's Sandi Conrad. They'll discuss the key steps to creating a large-scale FinOps operation. Speakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | CIO | Bridging the Divide: Business Relationship Management for IT LeadersTired of
business-IT silos? Explore how IT leaders leverage business relationship
management (BRM) to foster stronger connections with the business as they
deliver impactful technology solutions. Speakers: |
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| Adaptive IT Leadership | Security & Privacy | So, You Want to Be a CISO?Aspiring to be a CISO? Join us for a panel discussion on what it takes to reach this pivotal role. We'll look at a step-by-step approach to getting yourself promoted to that prestigious CISO position. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote (mainstage) | Exponential IT Principles | Applications | Exponential IT: Build an Exponential IT Product Practice That Drives Enterprise ResultsIn this keynote session, we'll explore how your product practice can help meet the needs of an exponential future. Learn about the practices ranging from product ownership through solution delivery that are required to drive your product and applications teams to success in an Exponential IT future. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote | AI Marketplace | Contract, Cost Optimization & Vendor Management | AI Marketplace Insights: Explore the Value of Off-the-Shelf AIGet expert insights in this keynote presentation. Learn how off-the-shelf AI solutions can be used to scale the business, mitigate risk, wow your clients, and more! Speakers: |
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| Value-Driven IT | Contract, Cost Optimization & Vendor Management | The Six Million Dollar (Plus) Project: How to Build a Better, Faster, Stronger Approach to Working With Technology Giants!Are you struggling to get the most out of your contracts with big tech and services vendors? Join Managing Partner David Wallace to explore the ins and outs of building a successful partnership with technology and consulting giants like Microsoft, Oracle, Google, AWS, Deloitte, Accenture, KPMG, and more! Speakers: |
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| CIO | Build a Data-Driven Workforce PlanEvery organization embarks on some degree
of workforce planning – but few are successful. A workforce plan is successful when three
criteria are met: Speakers: |
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| Lightning Round | AI Marketplace | Enterprise Architecture | The Impact of AI on the Enterprise Architecture RoleFocus your EA skill set to maximize the positive impacts of AI on your role. Speakers: |
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| Infrastructure & Operations | Embrace Automation Capabilities to Revolutionize IT OperationsAI features and initiatives can be overwhelming, and if not prioritized, they may become counterproductive. Speakers: |
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| Data & Analytics | Understanding How DevOps, DataOps, MLOps, and/or AIOps Ignite Your Exponential Business GrowthRapid decision-making based upon data: DevOps, DataOps, MLOps, and AIOps make it possible to obtain information that is both highly accurate and in real time. Speakers: |
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| Infrastructure & Operations | Should You Trust a Gen AI Chatbot With Your Customers?Human-in-the-loop is imperative for using Gen AI customer-facing chatbots. Speakers: |
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| All Roles | Local IT: “Cylinders of Excellence” or “Splendid Silos of Isolation”?IT is a team sport and adversarial relationships between central and local IT are unproductive. I will look at opportunities for focusing on the positive. Speakers: |
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| 11:05 AM | Breakout | Exhibitors | Contract, Cost Optimization & Vendor Management | Spinnaker Session: Fund Your Modernization and AI Initiatives With Third-Party Software SupportDigital transformation and AI projects demand significant investment, often stretching company budgets thin. Uncovering cost-effective strategies can free up resources for innovation. Join our session to learn how third-party software support for Oracle, SAP, and VMware can transform your IT operations and position you as the IT hero of your organization. Lead your IT team with confidence, leveraging faster, more responsive support with proactive security measures that meet compliance requirements, and secure your organization’s success with Spinnaker Support. Speakers: |
| Exponential IT Principles | Applications | Is Your Product Practice Ready for Exponential IT?Learn about the product management and delivery practices required to drive an Exponential IT future in this informative session. Join us to understand if your organization has what it takes to be ready, and find out where and how you should get started. Speakers: |
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| Leadership Summit: Systematically Improve your IT Department | CIO | Manage and Improve Core IT CapabilitiesThe foundation of any well-run IT shop is its core processes. Move past basic services to advanced processes that create real organizational value. In this breakout, we'll dive into the new Info-Tech framework for improving core IT processes. Speakers:
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| Client Panel | Systematic IT Excellence | All Roles | Reimagining Case Management in Government – Part 2Cases are at the center of all government work. Modernizing case management and delivering it as a service will help to reimagine how end-user services are ultimately being delivered. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote (mainstage) | Exponential IT Principles | CIO | Implement an Adaptive IT Financial Management SystemPave the way for exponential technologies with a modern IT financial management (ITFM) approach. In this session, we'll explore how organizations can reinvent their ITFM practice to achieve the agility and flexibility needed to invest in new technologies and opportunities as they arise. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote | AI Marketplace | All Roles | Fauxtomation and Microwork: The Digital Sweatshops That Power AIBehind the gleaming surface of AI automation frequently stand millions of workers, often in the Global South, who are manually processing data in "digital sweatshops." In this informational talk, we lift the hood on how large platforms (such as AWS) are actually training their algorithms that power AI functionality – namely, via online crowdworking shops. Importantly, it is this often hidden form of poorly paid and tedious labor that is fueling the AI moment. This talk concludes with some thoughts on how organizations can be more aware of their social responsibilities regarding their use of AI and how to effectively engage with large platform providers on this topic. Speakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | Data & Analytics | Give Your Enterprise Content the Retail Experience: Use Retail Marketing Concepts to Design Intuitive ECMEveryone knows where to find the milk and eggs, don’t they? Join Claudia Mamros, "space planner" extraordinaire, process improvement pundit, and taxonomy specialist, as she provides real-world examples of how retail marketing principles offer practical tactics for the visualization and design of taxonomy constructs. Claudia shares her life lessons in using retail concepts to create intuitive ECM solutions. Speakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | Project & Portfolio Management | Success by Design: Effective Project AssuranceGuarantee the success of your IT projects. Critical projects often face elevated risks due to complexity, funding, and stakeholder involvement. Join this session to learn how to take a proactive and effective approach to assuring the success of your projects. Speakers: |
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| Lightning Round | Systematic IT Excellence | Security & Privacy | Emphasize Response in Incident ResponseThe importance of running tabletop exercises in addition to having an incident response plan. Speakers: |
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| All Roles | The Implementation Partner Is More Important Than the SoftwareSpeakers: |
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| All Roles | The State of Quantum Resistant CryptographyThere are risks associated with moving to quantum-resistant cryptography as well as risks with staying with conventional algorithms. The big insight is choosing when to make the move. Speakers: |
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| All Roles | Volume of Information: Streamline the Information LifecycleRecognize the value of data and information, but streamline its lifecycle. Address the overwhelming volume with effective retention, architecture, and other strategies. Speakers: |
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| AI Marketplace | All Roles | Using Chaos Theory to Appreciate Generative AIUnderstand the basic ideas behind chaos theory and how it might influence your use of generative AI. Speakers: |
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| 11:40 AM | Breakout | Exhibitors | Enterprise Architecture | Ardoq Session: Data-Driven Architecture: Transforming Fast Food Operations with Clear Insights and Bold DecisionsJoin us for an enlightening
fireside chat with Fred Hennige, Director of Enterprise Architecture at Jack
in the Box, as he shares how data-driven enterprise architecture is
revolutionizing decision-making and operations across two major fast-food
brands. Learn how visualizing complex business capabilities and technology
landscapes has enabled Jack in the Box to navigate exponential change, from
digital transformation initiatives to their merger with Del Taco. Fred will
discuss how leveraging Ardoq's platform has empowered his team to: Speakers: |
| Exhibitors | Contract, Cost Optimization & Vendor Management | Licensing Data Solutions Session: Staying Ahead – Proactive Strategies for Addressing Recent Changes in Software Licensing and Compliance for VMware/Broadcom, Java, and SAPIn the rapidly evolving landscape of software licensing and compliance, staying informed and prepared is not just essential but compulsory. Join us for an insightful session led by industry expert and former software licensing auditor Mark Thaver, who has been at the forefront of hundreds of VMware/Broadcom, Java, and SAP audits. He will unravel the latest changes in licensing policies and compliance requirements for these critical platforms. Speakers: |
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| Exponential IT Principles | CIO | Exponential IT: Elevate IT Financial ManagementPave the way for exponential technologies with a modern IT financial management (ITFM) approach. In this breakout session, we'll take a closer look at how organizations can reinvent their ITFM practice to achieve the agility and flexibility needed to invest in new technologies and opportunities as they arise. Speakers: |
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| Client Panel | Black Professionals in IT | CIO | The CIO/IT Leader of the Future: Thriving in an Age of Exponential ChangeThe role of the CIO has transcended simply managing technology. This panel discussion features successful CIOs who are redefining IT leadership in this era of exponential change. They'll delve into the expanded skill set required of future CIOs, including fostering innovation, driving digital transformation across the organization, and collaborating with business/organizational leaders to shape strategic initiatives. Join us for an insightful exploration of how IT leaders can navigate the ever-evolving tech landscape and lead the way toward a future-proof organization. Speakers: |
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| Breakout | Leadership Summit: Systematically Improve your IT Department | CIO | Train and Develop Your IT Leaders and TeamIn the age of new technologies like generative AI, training and development is crucial as IT leaders must navigate the evolving landscape of exponential change. Join us in this breakout session as we explore strategies and resources to equip IT leaders and their teams with the skills needed to communicate effectively, drive cultural change, and foster innovation. Speakers: |
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| All Tracks | Security & Privacy | Address Security Implications of Enterprise Gen AI DeploymentsAs organizations adopt generative AI use cases, they are confronted with important security and privacy risks. By determining which risks apply to you and implementing effective processes to govern and manage them, you can limit the most pressing issues and plan to address larger, systemic issues with your information security program. Join this informative session to learn more! Speakers: |
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| AI Marketplace | Data & Analytics | Why Master Data Is Critical to the Successful Application of AIUnderstand the crucial role of master data in AI success. In this session, we'll examine how master data serves as the foundation for effective AI solutions and explore best practices in master data management for an exponential technology landscape. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote (mainstage) | Exponential IT Principles | CIO | Exponential IT: Transform IT Vendor Management for the FutureAs your organization engages with more tech vendors, IT vendor management needs to enable faster, data-driven decisions. While autonomous vendor management doesn't remove human involvement, it enhances organizational autonomy with new tech. Join us as we explore the critical role of vendor management in driving organizational success and innovation, and learn strategies for leveraging emerging technologies to enhance your VMI. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote | AI Marketplace | CIO | Implementing an AI Risk Management FrameworkThe growth of AI is creating significant opportunity while generating an equally significant number of new, novel risks. The scope and impact of these risks is driving an increased need for risk practices that can address the unique, unknowable, and integrated risks that AI may generate. This session will help organizations understand the key elements of an AI risk management framework and what is required to effectively adopt/implement it. Speakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | CIO | Go Beyond Digital Strategy to Build a Truly Digital OrganizationIn a world
where today's customer delight is tomorrow's expectation, organizations still
struggle to orchestrate their technology adoption cohesively and achieve
strategic business or organizational objectives. Organizations need to
leverage their digital strategy as the compass guiding their organization to
navigate this new terrain. Speakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | Project & Portfolio Management | Reap the Rewards From Your ProjectsJoin this informative discussion on how to ensure optimal value through effective project benefits realization. We'll cover key strategies and best practices to enhance your project's impact. Speakers: |
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| Lightning Round | Systematic IT Excellence | Security & Privacy | How to Show the Value of the Security ProgramLearn how to show the value of the security program, combining cybersecurity metrics into meaningful key performance indicators that resonate with the board and tell a story about current and leading risk that supports and aligns with the business/organization. Speakers: |
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| Security & Privacy | Security Strategy: The Art of Saying No!Speakers: |
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| Security & Privacy | EU AI Act: What It Is and Why It MattersSpeakers: |
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| CIO | Hope Is Not a Strategy: Why the Organization Needs IT Leaders to Have a Formal IT StrategyMany IT leaders fly by the seat of their pants, take orders from the business, or keep their strategy in their heads. None of this positions them as strategic partners and visionary IT leaders, nor does it help their teams understand what they should be focused on. I will talk about the why and point you to the how. Speakers: |
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| Security & Privacy | Combating Social Engineering AttacksCyberattackers don't need to use new
tricks because the old tricks are still working. Social engineering is one of
those tried-and-true attack vectors that seems to be at the core of many
high-profile security breaches. Speakers: |
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| 12:05 PM | Networking Lunch | Lunch |
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Healthcare Lunch |
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Government Lunch |
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| 1:30 PM | Guest Feature Keynote (mainstage) | Adaptive IT Leadership | All Roles | Beyond Resilience: A New Path to a Strong CultureAs the world emerges from the
pandemic, organizations everywhere are reexamining their operations and
rethinking their priorities. What do they stand for? How should they navigate
what comes next? And how might they build cultures where people can do their
best work and be their best selves? Speakers: |
| 2:00 PM | Guest Feature Keynote (mainstage) | AI Marketplace | All Roles |
Navigating the AI Landscape: From Hype to RealityNavigating the AI Landscape: From Hype to Reality,” will examine the current state of AI technology, separating genuine advancements from exaggerated claims. Attendees will gain valuable perspectives on implementing AI solutions that align with their business objectives, enhancing operational efficiency, and fostering innovation. Drawing from his extensive experience at Google and his acclaimed publications, Moroney will provide practical insights to help IT leaders make informed decisions in an increasingly AI-driven world. Speakers: Laurence Moroney, AI Researcher and Author |
| 2:30 PM | Networking Break | Networking Break |
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| 3:00 PM | Workshop | AI Marketplace | Applications | Build a Scalable AI Deployment PlanJoin this hands-on interactive session where we'll walk you through what is needed to build an AI implementation plan that is aligned with your current AI strategy. Speakers: |
| Adaptive IT Leadership | CIO | From Doing to Leading: Transitioning to Strategic DelegationAs you advance in your organization, using your time strategically becomes essential. This hands-on session will help you shift your mindset to focus on the work critical at your leadership level and transition from hands-on tasks to empowering and coaching others. Effective delegation involves preparing and supporting your team. Get practical tools and learn how to create a template for strategic delegation. Speakers: |
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| Industry Panel & Roundtable | Exponential IT Principles | All Roles | Priorities for Adopting an Exponential IT Mindset in EducationThe trajectory of technology is accelerating. IT leaders need to adopt an Exponential IT mindset to champion innovation, guide their organizations through technology-driven transformations, and improve operational efficiencies. Join this panel and roundtable discussion to learn from Info-Tech and your peers how Exponential IT will play a pivotal role in transformation and how you can lead change within your IT organization. Speakers: |
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| All Roles | Priorities for Adopting an Exponential IT Mindset in Professional Services & TechnologyThe trajectory of technology is accelerating. IT leaders need to adopt an Exponential IT mindset to champion innovation, guide their organizations through technology-driven transformations, and improve operational efficiencies. Join this panel and roundtable discussion to learn from Info-Tech and your peers how Exponential IT will play a pivotal role in transformation and how you can lead change within your IT organization. Speakers: |
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| All Roles | Priorities for Adopting an Exponential IT Mindset in Healthcare InsuranceThe trajectory of technology is accelerating. IT leaders need to adopt an Exponential IT mindset to champion innovation, guide their organizations through technology-driven transformations, and improve operational efficiencies. Join this panel and roundtable discussion to learn from Info-Tech and your peers how Exponential IT will play a pivotal role in transformation and how you can lead change within your IT organization. Speakers: |
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| Breakout | Exhibitors | Data & Analytics | Arcserve Session: Data Resilience in the Age of AI-Focused InfrastructureJoin us to discover the latest in data protection strategies and benchmark your organization's resilience against industry peers.
We'll share findings from our recent study on challenges in AI-driven world and how organizations are addressing them, helping you evaluate
and strengthen your own data resilience strategy. Speakers: |
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| AI Marketplace | Infrastructure & Operations | Leverage AIOps to Improve IT OperationsOrganizations are enthusiastic about
embracing AI and automation to improve their IT operations, but achieving
success proves to be challenging. Join this session to learn about common use
cases for AI in IT operations and techniques to assess value and feasibility
for your organization. Speakers: |
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| Client Panel | Systematic IT Excellence | CIO | Developing a Strategy to Execute: A Case Study of Implementing OKRs at Mark AnthonyInterview with Mark Anthony Group (MAG): a case study of their journey developing a transformation strategy leveraging Info-Tech’s research, surveys, and benchmarks. The process resulted in the definition and implementation of objectives and key results (OKRs) – a key milestone enabling MAG to move higher on the IT maturity ladder. Speakers: |
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| Breakout | Leadership Summit: Systematically Improve your IT Department | CIO | Manage Mission-Critical ProjectsDiscover key strategies for managing mission-critical projects successfully. In this session, we'll explore how you can ensure your high-stakes projects are delivered on time, within budget, and most importantly, yield the expected outcomes and value. Speakers: |
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| Exponential IT Principles | CIO | Exponential IT: Steering Through the Tech Surge With Governance in IT Vendor ManagementJoin this interactive session where we will dive into the evolving landscape of vendor management amid the influx of emerging technologies. We'll discuss the growing roster of IT vendors, their impact on the organization, and the crucial role of governance. Leave the conversation with clear strategies for assessing VMI practices in this dynamic field. Speakers: |
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| Roundtable | AI Marketplace | All Roles | Responsible Deployment of Copilot: Here Be DragonsMicrosoft has released several
Copilots as part of its AI strategy. The promise is that these tools can be
helpful in summarizing, generating, and predicting certain outcomes. Speakers: |
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| Client Panel | Women Leading IT | All Roles | Activating Networks for Personal GrowthJoin us for an engaging panel discussion on how to create powerful professional networks. In today’s interconnected world, a robust network is essential for personal and professional growth. We will discuss strategies for building and maintaining meaningful connections, what you need from a network, overcoming networking challenges, and how to leverage opportunities from a well-developed network. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote (mainstage) | Exponential IT Principles | Infrastructure & Operations | Exponential IT: Build a FinOps Strategy to Enable Dynamic Cloud Cost ManagementIn an increasingly cloud-centric world, cost management can be a competitive differentiator. FinOps allows savvy CIOs to align strategic cloud cost management with business or organizational objectives. In this session, you will learn how to kick-start your FinOps with best practices that lead to significantly improved operational efficiency and higher contribution to strategic outcomes. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote | AI Marketplace | All Roles | 2025 AI Trends: What to Expect Next YearDiscover the trends we're seeing in AI for next year in a keynote session you won't want to miss. Using data and information collected from a variety of sources, our deep subject matter experts will synthesize and analyze the trends. Speakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | Applications | The Critical Importance of the Product Owner Role in Successful AgileDon't miss this informative technology keynote as we explore why selecting the right product owner can mean the difference between the success or failure of your Agile project. Understand the key traits and characteristics to look for in your product owners. Speakers: |
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| Lightning Round | AI Marketplace | All Roles | AI Mind Reading Is Not Coming: It Is Already HereBrain-machine interfaces and neuroprosthetics have been here for over a decade, but just this year AI Mind Reading became a technology trend, mostly due to Neuralink's announcement that their first human trials have been successful. If you would like to understand how we got here and where we are going in this space, join Dr. Caroline Dias Alencar, and get up to speed in five minutes. Speakers: |
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Stop Pretending AI Won't Take People's Jobs!As managers, we like to reassure our staff. AI companies promise that AI will augment human capabilities and enhance the work we do. But the reality is that, if it works correctly – as we expect it to – AI will upend the labor market even more than it already has. In other words, it is coming for your job. The important question, then, is what can you do about it? How can you thrive – and coach your people to thrive – in a world where all of your assumptions about skills development and career growth have been tossed out the window? Speakers: |
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AI Use Cases Across Customer ExperienceThis talk explores the myriad use cases that Info-Tech analysts are observing for AI functionality, specific to the customer experience context. From content personalization to customer service, this talk outlines which use cases are providing organizations with exponential value. Speakers: |
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| Value-Driven IT | Security & Privacy | Cyber Insurance: Making Risk-Aware Decisions About Contractual Language and Operational ExpectationsSpeakers: |
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| Infrastructure & Operations | Create VIP Services for Everyone!Create a VIP service that relies on good process rather than heroic efforts, and use those lessons learned to improve support for everyone. Speakers: |
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| 3:35 PM | Breakout | Exhibitors | Contract, Cost Optimization & Vendor Management | Rimini Street Session: Leveraging AI and ML to Maximize Service Levels and Client SatisfactionThe ultimate measures for supporting an organization's success are the speed and quality of case responsiveness and resolution. While bots can expedite research, they don’t always lead to the optimal solution. In this session, we’ll explore how AI and ML applications can empower support engineers and IT staff to be more responsive and effective while providing highly desired human-to-human engagement with end users. Beyond theory, we’ll highlight three real-world, in-production AI and ML applications and give pragmatic lessons learned. Speakers: |
| Expert Panel | Systematic IT Excellence | All Roles | Maximizing the Frontline Experience With Public Safety Technology – Part 1Join us as we explore the landscape of technology for Public Safety. Our panelists will discuss use cases for maximizing the front-line user experiences and keeping our public safety staff safe. Speakers: |
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| Breakout | Exponential IT Principles | Infrastructure & Operations | Build FinOps Reporting That Reflects Your PrioritiesIn an increasingly
cloud-centric world, cost management can be a competitive differentiator.
FinOps allows savvy CIOs to align strategic cloud cost management and
organizational objectives. In this session, you will learn how to kick-start
your Speakers: |
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| Leadership Summit: Systematically Improve your IT Department | CIO | Right-Size Risk Spending & ToleranceRisk is unavoidable. Join us to explore strategies for optimizing your risk management investments and aligning them with your organization's risk tolerance. We'll explore how to tailor your risk management approach to your unique organizational needs. Speakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | Data & Analytics | Promote Data Literacy in Your OrganizationIn today's world of new and emerging technologies like Gen AI, data is everything. Join this insightful session to learn how you can leverage data literacy to bridge the data knowledge gap and foster a data-driven culture. Speakers: |
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| Expert Panel | Systematic IT Excellence | All Roles | Building Smart(er) Communities With GIS – Part 1GIS is the overlooked strategic platform for building smarter communities. We will discuss GIS’s potential and hear use cases from organizations that are innovating with GIS. Speakers: |
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| Data & Analytics | Data Strategy: Beyond Insights to ImpactDiscover how to turn valuable data insights into tangible organizational impact in this session on data strategies. Join us to unlock the full potential of your data and propel your organization forward in a landscape of exponential technologies. Speakers: |
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| Contract, Cost Optimization & Vendor Management | Key Insights to Drive Successful Deals With Mega-Vendors: Vendor Contract & Cost Optimization – Part 2Gain critical insights for negotiating and optimizing contracts with large vendors in this second of a three-part expert panel discussion. We'll cover the strategies, techniques, and best practices you need to get the best deals and outcomes in your largest vendor partnerships. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote (mainstage) | Exponential IT Principles | Project & Portfolio Management | Exponential IT: Transform PPM to Optimize Value From Every InvestmentThe PPM landscape is on the verge of a major transformation due to emerging technologies. As leaders adapt to market volatility and rapid tech advancements, automating PPM is essential. This keynote will highlight the disruptive trends in PPM and provide a strategic roadmap for leaders. Learn how to adopt new technologies effectively, avoiding vendor hype and overcommitment. Equip yourself to transform PPM practices and keep your organization agile and competitive. Speakers: |
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| Expert Panel | AI Marketplace | All Roles | AI in CX: Exploring AI Use Cases Across Customer ExperienceThis panel explores the myriad use cases that Info-Tech analysts are observing for AI functionality in customer experience contexts. Join us to hear which use cases are providing organizations with exponential value and which software providers can help enable those use cases. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote | Systematic IT Excellence | Applications | Backlog Change Management Using a Tiered ApproachEffective backlog management is fundamental to Agile’s ability to accommodate continuous changes in scope. In this session, we’ll examine how to use a tiered backlog approach to efficiently manage change and ensure you are always working on the most important things first. Speakers: |
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| Lightning Round | Systematic IT Excellence | All Roles | Innovation Is Not Enough: Adopt a Culture of IntrapreneurshipFoster an intrapreneurial culture in your organization. Speakers: |
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Where Are They Now? Blockchain Edition!We heard so much about blockchain tech the past few years, but it's mostly fallen off the radar. In this talk, we'll uncover the truth behind blockchain's precipitous rise and fall as an enterprise technology and the lessons you can apply to other similarly frothy technologies. Speakers: |
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Are We There Yet? The Importance of a Clear Guiding Star for Your TeamAs we continue to evolve toward Exponential IT, leaders in IT need to create a driving message or mission to align their team and their stakeholders in the journey to move to the next level. Speakers: |
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Geopolitics and Privacy: The TikTok TussleThe TikTok ban situation in the US is a microcosm of the larger tensions between privacy, national security, and global commerce in the digital age. While it’s easy to focus on the geopolitical aspects, at its core, this is a privacy issue that affects all internet users, regardless of nationality. The real challenge is not about one company or one country, but about how we navigate the complex and often contradictory demands of privacy, security, and innovation in a globally connected world. We should support the development and implementation of comprehensive federal privacy legislation. This could provide a clear framework for data practices and reduce the influence of geopolitical tensions on individual companies. Speakers: |
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| AI Marketplace | All Roles | Don’t Look Past What Drives Your Organization’s Success – Integrate Customer/Constituent Opinion Into Your AIUsing only behavioral/internal sources of data can ignore what your customers/constituents truly want. Connect all your data sources for more powerful insights. Speakers: |
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| 4:10 PM | Client Panel | Systematic IT Excellence | All Roles | Maximizing the Frontline Experience With Public Safety Technology – Part 2Join us as we explore the landscape of technology for Public Safety. Our panelists will discuss use cases for maximizing the front-line user experiences and keeping our public safety staff safe. Speakers: |
| Breakout | AI Marketplace | Infrastructure & Operations | Select the Ideal Infrastructure for Your AI WorkloadSince the release of ChatGPT, we can say one thing for sure: generative AI can be expensive. Production-scale AI training and inference often require significant investments in non-standard infrastructure (e.g. AI accelerators and high-throughput networking). Attend this session to learn about Info-Tech's approach to selecting the right AI infrastructure for your use cases. Speakers: |
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| Exponential IT Principles | Project & Portfolio Management | Exponential IT: Reimagining Project & Portfolio ManagementThe project portfolio management (PPM) space is on the verge of being disrupted by emerging technologies. Indeed, as organizational leaders look to reinvent their current operating models to ensure viability in the face of market volatility and technological innovation, projects and PPM are top areas of focus for automation improvements. This session takes a practical look at the game plan PPM leaders need to transform practices in a way that meets leadership’s expectations for adopting these technologies, without simply buying into vendor-driven hype and biting off more than you can chew in the near term. Speakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | Infrastructure & Operations | Keeping Ahead of Change in the M365/Azure EcosystemIn this informative breakout session, we'll examine strategies for navigating the ever-changing M365/Azure ecosystem. Speakers: |
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| Leadership Summit: Systematically Improve your IT Department | CIO | The Secret to Successfully Measuring Technology & Vendor EffectivenessOrganizations are spending more resources
(time and money) on technology vendors than ever before but most lack a
strategic and organized approach to technology selection and management. This
results in bloated technology spend and a wasteful and disorganized portfolio
of applications. In fact, our research indicates that less than one-third of
the applications in portfolios are considered both important and effective.
Speakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | Contract, Cost Optimization & Vendor Management | Oracle Java License Metric Change to Cost Companies MillionsJoin us to understand the changes in Oracle Java licensing and their potential financial implications for organizations. This session will help you navigate these changes and protect your organization's bottom line. Speakers: |
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| Client Panel | Systematic IT Excellence | All Roles | Building Smart(er) Communities With GIS – Part 2GIS is the overlooked strategic platform for building smarter communities. We will discuss GIS’s potential and hear use cases from organizations that are innovating with GIS. Speakers: |
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| Black Professionals in IT | All Roles | Leading in Uncertainty: Navigating the Glass CliffThis client panel is geared to everyone and goes beyond the glass ceiling and explores the "glass cliff." We'll explore unique challenges faced by our panel of Black leaders in IT, particularly when promoted during times of crisis and uncertainty. Hear their stories of navigating the "glass cliff" phenomenon and discover strategies to thrive in high-pressure situations. Speakers: |
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| Expert Panel | AI Marketplace | All Roles | AI Strategy x AI Governance: What Comes First?In many organizations, elements of governance and strategy are often used interchangeably when describing a company’s direction. Yet they are very different. This panel will discuss governance and strategy related to AI, which comes first – and why it matters. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote (mainstage) | Exponential IT Principles | Infrastructure & Operations | Exponential IT: Enhance Infrastructure and Operations With an Advanced FinOps StrategyIn an increasingly cloud-centric world, cost management can be a competitive differentiator. FinOps allows savvy CIOs to align strategic cloud cost management and business objectives. In this session, you will learn how to kick-start your FinOps with best practices that lead to significantly improved operational efficiency and higher contribution to strategic outcomes. Speakers: |
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| Lightning Round | Exhibitors | Vendict: Modern Solutions for Modern Problems – Gen AI in TPRMTechnology is coming at the organization at a record pace, and there are looming fears of getting left behind or, even worse, picking the wrong technology path for the future. IT leaders must understand technology choices and ensure positive impact on the business. They must also recognize that the wrong IT decisions can create technical debt and hinder future strategic moves. In this session, you will hear about real options for frameworks to evaluate IT investments to ensure alignment with business objectives. Speakers: |
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Codeium: Real AI, Real ImpactLearn how creating safe, compliant, enterprise-ready LLM models drives high-impact ROI.
Speakers: |
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Codifin: Leverage the AI Revolution With Efficient, High-Performing Internal Tech TeamsIn this session, we’ll explore how companies can capitalize on the global AI movement by building high-performing, cost-effective tech teams through nearshoring strategies. We'll discuss why integrating AI is essential for competitiveness, the advantages of creating internal teams, and how leveraging nearshore hubs can reduce costs while maintaining high-quality talent. Advanced AI algorithms can now identify the top talent pools from nearshoring countries, ensuring companies find the right candidates efficiently. Attendees will also learn about the importance of partnering with experts who understand the local talent landscape to drive success. Speakers: |
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Allganize: Five Steps to Make Gen AI Work for Innovation & Digital TransformationReady to elevate your digital transformation journey? In this concise five-minute session, we’ll unveil a powerful five-step roadmap to harnessing generative AI for groundbreaking innovation in customer experience. Discover how to overcome key challenges that innovative teams encounter, and explore strategies to enhance accuracy, integrate cutting-edge tools, and ensure security. Unlock the potential for greater efficiency, cost reduction, and unparalleled customer satisfaction.
Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote | Leadership Summit: Systematically Improve your IT Department | CIO | Leadership Summit: The Ultimate Onboarding ExperienceDon't miss this keynote session to learn about Info-Tech's Leadership Summit. The goal of the Leadership Summit is to provide the ultimate onboarding experience tailored to accelerate member value. This includes building an enterprise CKIP, 8 secrets to CIO leadership, systematically improving IT in 12 steps, and networking opportunities with peers and Info-Tech leaders. Speakers: |
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| Lightning Round | Exponential IT Principles | All Roles | Ignorance Is NOT Bliss in an Exponential WorldYou have to make time to stay on top of the exponential advancement of technology – book it in the calendar. Speakers: |
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Accelerating Enterprise Digital Services in the Public Sector ... and Why It Matters in the Age of Exponential ITThe road to meeting the public's expectations of services will get ever steeper with Exponential IT. What can IT leaders in the public sector do to address this? Speakers: |
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| AI Marketplace | All Roles | Imagine, Create, Innovate: Unleashing Digital Possibilities With LLM/GPT Prompt EngineeringGenerative AI and the democratization of digital product creation Speakers: |
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| Security & Privacy | Exponential Phishing With Generative AISpeakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | All Roles | Literacy – You're in IT and None of the Business Managers Understand What You're SayingCommit to changing the culture and language so all parts of the organization can work more effectively together. Speakers: |
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| Guest CIO Panel | AI Marketplace | All Roles |
Human-AI Collaboration – Amplifying Human Potential Through AISpeakers: |
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| 4:30 PM | Guest Feature Interview (mainstage) | Exponential IT Principles | All Roles | Zenhub: Illuminating the Dark Corners: Leveraging AI to Enhance Engineering Team Productivity and VisibilityAs engineering leaders, the challenge of ensuring your teams are focused on the right priorities while managing workloads efficiently can be daunting. The manual tracking of workload allocation often leads to inaccuracies, and existing automated solutions come with high costs, complex setups, and the critical flaw of relying on well-maintained project management tools. Join Cory Albert of Zenhub on the AI stage as he explores how AI can revolutionize your approach to engineering management. This session will delve into how Zenhub uses AI to provide engineering leaders with the insights they need to maximize their team’s impact. Discover how AI-powered tools can help you: • Identify periods when bugs and operational tasks are consuming priority work, enabling more informed decisions on headcount and process adjustments. • Analyze workload distribution across your team, ensuring a balanced and effective allocation of tasks. • Estimate financial investments in bug work and understand its impact on your engineering budget. In addition, this session will demonstrate how AI can reduce the time-consuming tasks that burden your team, from labeling issues to generating acceptance criteria and sprint reports. However, the session will also emphasize the critical role of human oversight in AI-driven processes, ensuring that while AI can automate many tasks, the strategic direction and decision-making remain firmly in human hands. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how AI can transform your engineering team’s productivity and visibility. Visit us at Booth 504 to continue the conversation and see these tools in action.
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| 4:45 PM | Feature Keynote (mainstage) | Exponential IT Principles | All Roles | IT Management & Governance: The Next EvolutionSpeakers: |
| 5:45 PM | Reception | General Reception |
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| 5:45 PM | Reception | Manufacturing Reception |
| Start | Session Type/Category | Track | Role | Session Title |
| 7:00 AM | Registration and Breakfast | Registration & Breakfast |
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| 8:15 AM | Welcome and Opening Remarks | Welcome and Opening RemarksSpeakers: |
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| 8:30 AM | Feature Keynote (mainstage) | Adaptive IT Leadership | All Roles | Adaptive IT Leadership: Leading at the Pace of Exponential ChangeYou can’t do everything yourself. Having a team you can depend on is critical to your success. In the face of rapidly evolving technology landscapes, the demand for skilled IT leaders who can bridge new technologies with business outcomes has never been higher. With the challenge of filling IT leadership roles escalating, the 2024 Info-Tech and McLean & Company surveys highlight a critical gap in leadership skills within IT and a pressing need for leadership skills prioritization. This keynote delves into the shifting paradigm where the focus increasingly moves toward people leadership and business acumen over technical expertise alone. Speakers: |
| 9:00 AM | Guest Feature Keynote (mainstage) | Adaptive IT Leadership | CIO | Adaptive IT Leadership: How IT Leadership Needs to Evolve with Exponential ITSpeakers: |
| 9:30 AM | Guest Feature CIO Panel (mainstage) | Black Professionals in IT | All Roles | AI Hype Vs RealityThe field of AI cycles through what are called AI summers, epochs where every other news headline seems to be about AI and there is ample funding for the field, and AI winters, which come from the disappointment by undelivered overpromises during the AI summers. We are currently in the AI summer part of the cycle, where just the mere mention of “AI” gets startups 15%-50% more funds in investments. Some companies even hired workers to pretend to be chatbots while claiming that their products are “AI powered,” so that they can raise more venture capital funding. In my talk, I will discuss how people can separate this hype from reality while evaluating AI systems and what processes and frameworks they can use to ensure responsible integration. Speakers: |
| 10:00 AM | Networking Break | Networking Break |
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| 10:30 AM | Workshop | Systematic IT Excellence | Security & Privacy | Enhance Security Risk Assessments With AIAssessing security risks requires specialized skills, making it a difficult exercise to democratize. In this session, you will learn how to harness the power of generative AI to identify and assess threats against systems. This will reduce the need for risk assessors to be cybersecurity professionals, allowing you to empower other IT and business teams to conduct their own security threat risk assessments. Speakers: |
| Adaptive IT Leadership | CIO | Leading the People Side of ChangeLeading people through change is one of the most critical leadership skills required for the future. In this interactive session, we share four key reactions people have to change, how to recognize them, and more importantly, tactics to support and build a resilient team in a world where change is the norm. Leave with a plan to coach your employees through uncertainty that leads to opportunity. Speakers: |
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| Member Value Session | All Tracks | All Roles | Get the Most Out of Your Info-Tech MembershipGet ready to discover the wide range of products and services included in your Info-Tech membership. In this informative session, we’ll help you unlock the power of your membership to boost the value to your organization. Speakers: |
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| Breakout | AI Marketplace | Applications | Leverage Gen AI to Improve Your Test Automation StrategyThe struggle with the “Test Squeeze” is real! Having a test automation strategy informs how you make decisions around what level of test coverage you need. Yet it’s still not enough. Join this session to learn how you can integrate AI-enhanced testing practices into your quality assurance program. Speakers: |
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| Data & Analytics | Data Governance: We Dislike It, but It’s Foundational to Trusted DataData governance is critically important – especially in the accelerated era of generative AI/ML. Don't miss this session as we discuss why and how to adopt a formal approach to governing data in your organization. Speakers: |
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| All Roles | How to Select Your AI VendorsWhat are the most important attributes to consider when selecting your AI vendor? How can you compare small AI vendors with larger software companies? In this session, you'll learn how to select vendors with confidence using our best-practice methodology. Speakers: |
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| Client Panel | Systematic IT Excellence | Security & Privacy | De-Accelerate the Erosion Over Time of Your Security Maturity With These TipsAchieving an appropriate maturity in your security posture is difficult and expensive, but maintaining static good maturity is a myth. As an off-shoot to Moore’s Law, research shows that ongoing maturity degradation occurs related to ongoing improvements in technology – “If you’re standing still, you’re going backwards.” Don't miss this panel discussion to learn some of the key approaches for slowing this degradation and allowing your strategic initiatives roadmap to keep pace with the corresponding changes in the threat landscape. Speakers: |
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| Expert Panel | Systematic IT Excellence | All Roles | How to Deliver Digital Government Capabilities at Scale – Part 1During the COVID-19 pandemic, many organizations quickly expanded their digital tools to keep up with new demands. Now, with funding decreasing, state and local governments are trying to manage their budgets without lowering the quality of their services. This session looks at the new challenges for government IT organizations and how they need to adapt to continue providing effective digital services as technology rapidly advances. Speakers: |
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| AI Marketplace | CIO | AI Talent Debate: Should AI Skills Be Built Internally or Bought Externally?Today,
the need for AI skills generally prompts the need for human AI talent, which
raises the question of IT talent sourcing. Should we build our AI resources
internally through employee learning & development? Or is it better to
buy talent through the recruitment of qualified AI experts in the labor
market? Debaters will present both perspectives by using Info-Tech research,
insights, and programs to support their positions and argue why you should
build or buy AI talent. Speakers: |
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| All Roles | Data Strategy x AI StrategyAI and data are intimately connected. An AI
strategy includes a good data strategy to ensure accuracy. Conversely, a good
data strategy includes AI use cases to unlock value from the data. Speakers: |
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| Breakout | Systematic IT Excellence | Enterprise Architecture | AI Influence and Impact on Enterprise IntegrationJoin us as we delve into how AI is revolutionizing enterprise integration through automation, workflow optimization, and rapid decision-making processes. You'll learn how AI drives innovation, data quality, process automation, secure transactions, compliance, collaboration, and real-time analytics enablement supported by IoT. Speakers: |
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| Client Panel | Systematic IT Excellence | CIO | Should the CIO Be the Only Technology Leader?In a technology-first enterprise where a large percentage of the staff are engaged in IT-related work, can the organization rely on just one IT leader in the C-suite? Exponential growth of technology is forcing organizations to value multi-dimensional investments in IT, and the elevation of CSIOs, CTOs, CAIOs, and CDOs to the highest levels of the organization is diluting the role of the traditional CIO. Should the CIO be an overarching leader of technology with umbrella leadership over all related roles, or is there an emerging model for multiple technology leaders to steer an autonomized organization? Join us as we explore the answers to these questions in this expert panel discussion. Speakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | Enterprise Architecture | Success Stories: Achievements in Enterprise ArchitectureAttend this engaging panel to hear from some of our largest clients as they share their experiences and achievements in building their Enterprise Architecture practices. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote (mainstage) | Exponential IT Principles | CIO | The New CIO: Leading IT Into the FutureIn this must-attend keynote presentation, we'll explore the evolving role of the CIO and what it takes to lead in the rapidly changing IT landscape. This session will highlight the skills, strategies, and mindset required for the modern CIO to balance technological advancements with strategic leadership. Speakers: |
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| Expert Panel | AI Marketplace | All Roles | A Guide to Operationalizing Explainable AI (XAI)Many organizations
are embracing AI today. Responsible AI principles drive organizations to
deploy AI ethically. Among these principles is explainability. Explainable AI
(XAI) aims to operationalize this principle. XAI is important for many
reasons including compliance, audit, security, and privacy. Being able to
understand how the AI came up with an answer can help us create better
feedback loops and promote greater transparency. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote | Systematic IT Excellence | Applications | Enterprise Application Change: It's All About Business CapabilitiesStop thinking about requirements and start thinking about business capabilities instead. By focusing on the outcomes of business processes, you will be able to find the software that multiplies your capabilities. Attend this insightful keynote to learn more! Speakers: |
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| Security & Privacy | Beyond the Perimeter: Securing Your Network With Zero Trust and Zero Standing PrivilegesJoin this insightful keynote as we examine zero trust security. The success of most attacks is tied to denial of service, data exfiltration, and ransom. A shift from focusing on the attack surface to the protect surface will help organizations implement an inside-out architecture that protects critical infrastructure, prevents the success of any attack, makes it difficult to gain access, and links directly to business goals. Zero trust principles aid that shift across several pillars (Identity, Device, Application, Network, and Data) that make up a typical infrastructure; hence, the need for a zero trust roadmap to accomplish what we desire for our organization. Speakers: |
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| Lightning Round | Systematic IT Excellence | Applications | Using M365 as a Catalyst to Rationalize Your Application PortfolioSpeakers: |
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| Infrastructure & Operations | Discover Shadow IT & Reduce SaaS RisksLook to SaaS management tools to discover, analyze, and automate provisioning and deprovisioning. Speakers: |
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| AI Marketplace | CIO | Balancing Act: Counting the Cost of AI Integration in IT Staffing and SpendTake charge: How are you investing in your AI solutions for IT compared to your peers? Speakers: |
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| 10:45 | Lightning Round | Systematic IT Excellence | All Roles | You May Think You're Good at Multitasking, but Are You Really?Attention works like a spotlight focusing on a stage. There is only so much light available. You can spread and dim the light or you can focus it, but you can't do both. Speakers: |
| 11:05 AM | Breakout | Systematic IT Excellence | Applications | Evaluate M365 Solutions to Rationalize Your Application PortfolioIn this breakout session, we'll explore how to streamline your application portfolio with Microsoft 365 solutions. We'll review M365 subscription (E3 vs E5) and provide insights on addressing application sprawl with a more MS-centric ecosystem. Speakers: |
| Client Panel | Systematic IT Excellence | All Roles | From Silos to Synergy: Create Marketing & IT AlignmentToday, an excellent
partnership between Marketing and Tech is key to the success of B2B tech
companies. Both IT leaders and Marketing leaders agree on this. Our research
has found that there are two key areas that both leaders feel needs to be
addressed: Speakers: |
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How to Deliver Digital Government Capabilities at Scale – Part 2During the COVID-19 pandemic, many organizations quickly expanded their digital tools to keep up with new demands. Now, with funding decreasing, state and local governments are trying to manage their budgets without lowering the quality of their services. This session looks at the new challenges for government IT organizations and how they need to adapt to continue providing effective digital services as technology rapidly advances. Speakers: |
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| Expert Panel | Exponential IT Principles | Data & Analytics | The Real Cost of "Manual" Data ManagementJoin us as we explore the true costs of "manual" data management. We'll discuss the financial and operational impacts and propose strategies for modernizing your data practice. Speakers: |
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| Breakout | Systematic IT Excellence | Security & Privacy | Build Resilience Against Ransomware AttacksRansomware criminals continue to innovate and evolve their attacks to circumvent the latest defenses. While prevention remains an important goal for CISOs, it will never be enough. Resilience is key to rapid recovery from these threats. Join this session to learn about the latest trends in ransomware and how you can build resilience against them. Speakers: |
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| AI Marketplace | Project & Portfolio Management | Deliver Engaging Portfolio Reports Using Power BIJoin us for a practical session on how to leverage Info-Tech's templates in Microsoft Excel and Power BI to deploy an engaging project portfolio management reporting solution. Get a glimpse into how you can work with citizen developers in your organization to deliver a functional, low-cost, entry-level PPM solution for your organization. Speakers: |
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| Expert Panel | Systematic IT Excellence | CIO | Harnessing M&A in the Age of Technological DisruptionDiscover the role of CIOs in spearheading M&A initiatives, from identifying opportunities aligned with tech advancements to leading successful technology integrations. Our panel will share insights on M&A trends, strategic considerations for CIOs, and best practices for maximizing integration value. Speakers: |
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| Contract, Cost Optimization & Vendor Management | Key Insights to Drive Successful Deals With Mega-Vendors: Vendor Contract & Cost Optimization – Part 3Gain critical insights for negotiating and optimizing contracts with large vendors in this final part of a three-part expert panel discussion. We'll cover the strategies, techniques, and best practices you need to get the best deals and outcomes in your largest vendor partnerships. Speakers: |
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| Client Panel | Adaptive IT Leadership | CIO | How IT Leaders Should Celebrate Successes and Share the Value of IT With the Rest of the OrganizationJoin us for an insightful discussion on promoting the value of IT to the organization. This panel focuses on ensuring that business/organizational leaders understand the strategic importance of IT and its direct impact on achieving organizational goals. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote (mainstage) | Exponential IT Principles | Data & Analytics | Exponential IT: Define a Data Practice Strategy to Power the Autonomous EnterpriseWith Exponential IT, the role of data will shift from being a support tool for internal decisions to becoming a driving force behind your core business strategy. Attend this technology keynote to learn about what your data practice strategy will need to embrace this new role for data in your organization. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote | Exponential IT Principles | Infrastructure & Operations | Radically Change the Way You Work With Service ManagementDiscover how to radically transform your service management approach. This session will explore what to automate to improve infrastructure, services support, and customer experience, such as digital experience (DEX) and embedded learning solutions to help users learn new systems, the service request catalog, and more. Speakers: |
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| AI Marketplace | Contract, Cost Optimization & Vendor Management | Build or Buy? The AI Vendor Landscape in ITGet our expert take on the build vs. buy debate when it comes to AI for IT. Join this session to learn how off-the-shelf AI solutions can be used to augment application development, data analytics, IT security, and more! Speakers: |
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| Lightning Round | Adaptive IT Leadership | All Roles | Is Storytelling Dead?Storytelling is an important way to relate our technology problems/opportunities and to gain business/organizational understanding. Speakers: |
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| AI Marketplace | All Roles | The AI Customer Service Revolution is UnderwaySpeakers: |
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| Adaptive IT Leadership | CIO | Lamenting Leadership Styles: True IT Leaders Are No Longer Embracing Outdated and Irrelevant Leadership StylesEmbrace leadership for the modern IT organization by ignoring outdated leadership styles. Speakers: |
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| Exponential IT Principles | Data & Analytics | Automate IT Asset Data Collection to Support Exponential ITGood asset data can inform every important IT decision you have to make. It's impossible to get good data without effective automation and process. Speakers: |
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| 11:40 AM | Roundtable | AI Marketplace | All Roles | The AI Advantage for Smarter Marketing – Easier Said Than DoneSmart marketers have used AI for many years. The use has been focused on analytical and predictive Al to find answers and overlooked revenue opportunities and affect conversion rates. With generative Al becoming a household name, there is confusion on which Al projects need to be prioritized. Don't miss this session where we explore case studies and discuss challenges, best practices, and future directions that will help marketers navigate this landscape and make informed decisions about where to allocate resources Speakers: |
| Exponential IT Principles | CIO | CIO Priorities & ChallengesDon't miss this guided discussion on CIO priorities and challenges. Share your experiences with your peers and learn from others who have been in your shoes. Speakers: |
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| Breakout | Exponential IT Principles | Data & Analytics | Define a Data Practice Strategy to Power the Autonomous EnterpriseExponential technologies demand a new data practice approach. In this informative session, you'll learn about what you need to effectively create an AI strategy to both maximize your return and mitigate risks with your AI investments. Speakers: |
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| Client Panel | AI Marketplace | All Roles | Take a Foundational IT Approach to Accelerate AIJoin this session to hear from some of your fellow small and medium organization members on how they are enabling an Exponential IT approach to establish the foundations for successful AI. Topics to be covered include maturing areas such as security and data to enable AI as well as how IT can champion AI with their CFO and CEO. Speakers: |
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| Breakout | AI Marketplace | All Roles | LLM Prompt Engineering: Getting the Best Results From Generative AILearn how to craft good prompts. What you get out is only as good as the information being fed in, and how it is fed in is vastly important. This session will cover essential topics including interaction methods, understanding tokens and costs, and deployment methods. We'll dive into prompt structure, including system and user prompts, providing data, and setting rules and guardrails, as well as handling biases, mitigating hallucinations, and the ethical considerations involved. Speakers: |
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| Data & Analytics | Exponential (Accelerated) Applied AI Patterns: Data and Model as Foundation LayersJoin this breakout session to learn how organizations are getting ready to deliver AI MVP in accelerated fashion. We'll explore a methodological approach that enables business leaders to achieve their goals through embedded AI in their business systems. Speakers: |
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| Value-Driven IT | All Roles | Black & Veatch: Risks and Issues in Moving From Info-Tech to COBIT Pure PlayJoin us as we explore how Info-Tech helped Black & Veatch achieve operational excellence through the implementation of IT process maturity. We will delve into the challenges faced by the company in the past and how Info-Tech's expert guidance and tools enabled Black & Veatch to increase efficiency, increase resiliency, and enhance the overall quality of their IT operations. Speakers: |
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| Contract, Cost Optimization & Vendor Management | Learn How Vendors Evaluate Customer Relationships and How to Leverage That InformationA vendor may be important to you, but how do you determine your importance to them? Does it matter? This session answers these questions by walking through Info-Tech's objective customer-positioning tool. Learn how to identify your category/position with a vendor, understand the impact of your category/position, and obtain practical guidance on when and how to change your category/position. Speakers: |
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| AI Marketplace | Applications | Talk the Talk: Choosing a Conversational AIDon't miss this informative conversation on conversational AI solutions. Discover how to select the solution that best meets your organization's needs. We'll talk about the latest trends, technologies, and key factors to consider when selecting and implementing a conversational AI solution. Speakers: |
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| Exponential IT Principles | All Roles | Don’t Let Your People Sabotage Your Exponential IT RevolutionIn the next 20
years, we all face a tipping point, as technological capabilities will exceed
our own. This is a challenge to be met today. Those businesses that embrace
this today will gain an advantage, and if they are able to ride that
exponential curve, the laggards will never be able to catch up. The decisions
you make in the next months and years will therefore be critical. Speakers: |
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| Expert Panel | Systematic IT Excellence | All Roles | Broadband: Addressing Rural Connectivity & Digital EquityIt is imperative to connect to the last mile and provide digital equity. How do we best use our funds to manage our projects for success? How do we create sustainable programs for engaging the currently disconnected populations? Speakers: |
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| Client Panel | Women Leading IT | CIO | Rising Above AdversityWe all encounter adversity in our lives. Join our panel discussion to learn how to overcome roadblocks with fellow women Executive Leaders and CIOs. The discussion will include why adversity is important, why taking risks is critical, and how to change your perspective to achieve positive outcomes. Speakers: |
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| Systematic IT Excellence | CIO | Your Last 100 Days as a CIO – What Do You Need to Do to Make Your Successor a Success?Popular literature currently focuses on the first 100 days of a CIO’s tenure, and the research is incredibly valuable. But what should a CIO do in the last 90 days of their tenure? Leaving a role sets the stage for the next steps in your CIO career, and the closing weeks of the job can create or destroy your reputation in the industry. This panel will discuss observations of hundreds of CIOs who have transitioned and highlight observations on how to do it right. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote (mainstage) | Systematic IT Excellence | CIO | IT Spend and Staffing Benchmarking: Realign Resources for SuccessJoin this engaging keynote to explore the critical importance of an IT spend and staffing assessment. Hear why delivering your strategy successfully is contingent on understanding and adjusting your spend and resource allocation. Speakers: |
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| Technology Keynote | AI Marketplace | Contract, Cost Optimization & Vendor Management | How to Leverage Code Generation With CodeiumLearn how to apply automated Code Generation best practices for your development. This keynote presentation will be delivered by Codeium, one of the leaders in the space. Speakers: |
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| 12:05 PM | Event Wrap-Up | |||
| 12:15 PM | Lunch | Lunch |
Training Programs are not included in your Info-Tech LIVE ticket price. Please reach out to your Account Representative to learn more about the Training Programs offered at Info-Tech LIVE 2024.
| Course | Day | Start | Session Overview |
Artificial Intelligence Workforce Development |
September 16 | 9:00-10:15 AM | Scope and Evaluate Your AI Proof of Value (PoV) |
| 10:15-10:30 AM | Break and Snacks |
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| 10:30-11:45 AM | Case Study and Project Workshop
Deliverable: PoV Framework With Vendor Selection |
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| 11:45 AM – 12:00 PM | Wrap-Up and Q&A:Opportunity to reflect on the session and ask questions about the full training program. |
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Cybersecurity Workforce Development |
September 16 | 1:00-2:15 PM | Learn the steps of developing a scalable and systematic incident response program relevant to your organization. |
| 2:15-2:30 PM | Break and Snacks |
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| 2:30-3:45 PM | Tabletop Exercise and Role Play
Deliverable: Incident Response Template. |
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| 3:45 – 4:00 PM | Wrap-Up and Q&A:Opportunity to reflect on the session and ask questions about the full training program. |
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Women Leading IT |
September 19 | 12:30 - 4:30 PM |
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| September 20 | 7:30 AM - 12:30 PM |
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