Data Intelligence Summit Speakers

Akhil Khunger

VP Quantitative Analytics

Akhil Khunger

VP Quantitative Analytics

Barclays

About Speaker

Akhil has over ten years of experience in the financial industry and currently working as a financial engineer/ Quantitative Analytics (QA) at Barclays. He has experience in statistics, financial modeling, quantitative strategies and programming experience in Python, C++ and SQL as well as working on quantitative models on FX, Macro, Credit and Futures businesses. Akhil holds a master’s in Financial Engineering from UC Berkeley and another in financial mathematics from the London School of Economics.

Ujjwal Goel

Sr. Director - Data & ML Engineering, Architecture, Data Science, Data Management

Ujjwal Goel

Sr. Director - Data & ML Engineering, Architecture, Data Science, Data Management

Loblaw Companies

About Speaker

Seasoned data and machine learning leader with over 20 years of extensive global experience in the data space. Currently serving as Senior Director, Data & ML Engineering, leading a team of 100+ professionals and enabling data product teams across the organization. Adept at architecting and managing enterprise-scale data and ML platforms that drive innovation and business growth. Key Highlights: • Proven expertise in spearheading data and analytics initiatives, from strategy to execution, across diverse industries and geographies. • Skilled in building high-performing teams, fostering collaboration, and driving operational excellence. • Recognized thought leader and frequent speaker/panelist at industry summits, sharing insights on data engineering, ML, Governance and AI trends. • Adept at translating complex data challenges into scalable, future-proof solutions that leverage cutting-edge technologies. • Passionate about promoting a data-driven culture, enabling data democratization, and empowering stakeholders with actionable insights. • Experienced in leading cross-functional teams, aligning data strategies with business objectives, and delivering measurable impact. • Strong background in data governance, quality assurance, and implementing best practices for data management and ML model lifecycle. With a unique blend of technical acumen and strategic vision, I thrive in driving Data & digital transformation through data-centric approaches, fostering innovation, and unlocking the full potential of data and ML to create sustainable competitive advantages.

Linda F. Powell

Deputy Chief Data Officer

Linda F. Powell

Deputy Chief Data Officer

BNY Mellon

About Speaker

Linda F. Powell, Enterprise Deputy Chief Data Office, BONY Melon Linda F. Powell has over 30 years of experience in the finance industry including commercial banking, banking supervision, and supporting economic research. She spent most of her career with the Federal Reserve System covering regulatory reporting, bank examination, and economic research in addition to data management. She was the Chief Data Officer at the Treasury Department’s Office of Financial Research and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. In 2018 she joined Citibank as the Global Head of Data Governance & Data Reporting and in 2021 she joined BNY as the Deputy Chief Data Officer. Her experience covers data operations, data governance, data platform design and implementation, data architecture, and analytics / data science. She has published several papers on the topics of data standards, metadata, and data strategy. She has a B.A. in Economics from Rutgers University and an M.S. in Quantitative Finance from George Washington University.

Friederike Schüür

Chief of Data Strategy and Data Governance

Friederike Schüür

Chief of Data Strategy and Data Governance

UNICEF

About Speaker

Friederike Schüür is Chief of Data Strategy and Data Governance from UNICEF

Sylvie Makhzoum

Vice President, Data and Analytics

Sylvie Makhzoum

Vice President, Data and Analytics

TD Bank

About Speaker

With over 25 years of experience at TD, Sylvie Makhzoum has consistently taken on roles of increasing responsibility within the data and analytics domain. Renowned for her team-first leadership approach, Sylvie has a proven track record of galvanizing and enabling strategic AI and data teams to maximize business value. Her notable achievements include creating TD's data and analytics strategy on the cloud and delivering the largest data project across the bank using Agile methodology, resulting in millions of dollars in business benefits. Currently, Sylvie serves as both a technology executive and executive product owner for four enterprise business segments: Business Banking, Canadian Personal Banking, TD Insurance, and TD Wealth, overseeing over 600 colleagues. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Sylvie is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion at TD. She holds an executive role within TD's Platform and Technology Women in Leadership Committee and the TD Women in Data & Analytics (WiDA) group. She also led the TD Indigenous Committee, where she built the largest TDI Indigenous Internship program for TD. Outside of TD, Sylvie is a board member for Calcul Québec and frequently speaks at universities, high schools, and post-secondary institutions across Canada and the United States, encouraging young professionals to pursue careers in data and analytics. Her accolades include being named one of Canada's Top 100 Most Powerful Women (WXN) in 2022 and one of the Top 65 Most Influential Women in AI in 2023. Sylvie holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics and a master's degree in statistics/AI (with high honors) from the University of Montréal. She also has a Lean Six Sigma (Black Belt) accreditation for Agile Transformation from New York University. When not at the office, Sylvie enjoys spending time in and around her home in Montreal with her husband and two children.

Shreyas Becker

Head of Global AI & Data Products, Manufacturing & Supply

Shreyas Becker

Head of Global AI & Data Products, Manufacturing & Supply

Sanofi

About Speaker

Shreyas Becker is the Head of AI & Data Products at Sanofi. Prior to joining Sanofi, he was a Senior Manager, Products at Neo Financial and also held positions at BCG, PwC, Best Buy Canada, Mu Sigma, and TED Conferences, LLC

Krishan Sharma

Senior Vice President - Risk & Analytics

Krishan Sharma

Senior Vice President - Risk & Analytics

Citigroup (Citi) Inc.

About Speaker

Krishan Sharma is a senior data analytics and model risk management leader with nearly 20 years of experience delivering AI/ML-driven risk and financial analytics for global banking institutions. His expertise spans credit and market risk modeling, stress testing, capital planning, and large-scale regulatory programs supporting systemically important financial institutions. He has led global teams in building, validating, and governing advanced analytical models across CCAR, CECL, IFRS 9, and ICAAP, with a strong focus on scalable data platforms, model governance, and the responsible adoption of emerging technologies, including generative AI. Krishan currently serves as Senior Vice President at Citigroup in New York, leading cross-regional initiatives that translate complex regulatory and business requirements into production-ready analytics.

Rana Dalbah

Senior Director of Data Governance & Artificial Intelligence

Rana Dalbah

Senior Director of Data Governance & Artificial Intelligence

BAE Systems

About Speaker

Rana Dalbah is the Senior Director of Data Governance & Artificial Intelligence at BAE Systems, Inc. With over 20 years of experience in driving data-driven decisions through analytics, Rana now concentrates on harnessing the power of AI, particularly generative AI, to transform business operations. Her expertise lies in crafting tailored solutions to support mission critical problems, currently exploring the intersection of data governance, AI, and employee experience, with a focus on leveraging AI to streamline tasks and enhance daily workflows

Sunny Zhu

Head of Data & Analytics, Strategy & Operation

Sunny Zhu

Head of Data & Analytics, Strategy & Operation

Indeed.com

About Speaker

Sunny Zhu is Head of Data & Analytics, Strategy & Operation from Indeed.com

Mark Brady

Deputy Chief Data Officer

Mark Brady

Deputy Chief Data Officer

KBR

About Speaker

A world class expert in data management, Dr. Mark Brady has served as Chief Data Officer for the Space Force, Chief Data Officer for the Air Force Space Command, Data Architect for The Department of Justice, and Information Architect for the National Marine Fisheries Service. He also helped established electronic trade standards as U.S. delegate to the United Nations, served on the White House Data Cabinet, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Big Data Council. Prior to his federal service he conducted basic scientific research in neuroscience, taught neuroscience and statistics; conducted industrial R&D in artificial intelligence, software, medical electronics, traffic management, electrophoresis, and mathematical modeling for automotive geometry. He is an inventor with a number of patents in AI from this work in industry.

Lirec Williams

Director of Systems COE

Lirec Williams

Director of Systems COE

DHL Supply Chain North America

About Speaker

Lirec Williams is a seasoned Systems Program Manager and data strategist with over a decade of experience leading enterprise-scale initiatives in analytics, business intelligence, and digital transformation. At DHL Supply Chain North America, he drives innovation through scalable data solutions, Power BI governance frameworks, and cross-functional team alignment—ensuring insights not only inform, but empower decision-making across the organization. With a unique ability to bridge the gap between data and people, Lirec specializes in cultivating cultures of clarity, trust, and execution. His leadership philosophy blends emotional intelligence with operational excellence, making him a sought-after speaker on topics such as data-driven leadership, Power BI team culture, and the human side of analytics. He is also the founder of 15 Minutes with Dad, a platform focused on emotional resilience, legacy, and storytelling that reflects his belief that data—and leadership—are only as strong as the people behind them.

Harnalli Deepaswamy

SVP, Global Head of Data, AIML & Analytics Platforms, standing Chief Data Officer

Harnalli Deepaswamy

SVP, Global Head of Data, AIML & Analytics Platforms, standing Chief Data Officer

Forge

About Speaker

Deepa (Harnalli Deepaswamy) Data & AI/ML Executive | Global Editorial Board Member, CDO Magazine Deepa is a seasoned Data and AI/ML executive, bringing over 20 years of transformative leadership across Data, Analytics, and AI/ML — blending strategic vision with deep technical execution. With 13 years of experience delivering AI use cases from proof-of-concept to production in highly regulated industries, including financial services and consumer markets. She has consistently driven large-scale transformations by embedding AI governance, compliance, and explainability frameworks into enterprise platforms, ensuring adoption and trust at scale. Her career spans leadership roles at JPMorgan Chase, Forge Global, Wells Fargo, Data.ai, and Rodan + Fields, where she built and scaled global data, analytics, and AI organizations. She has deployed multi-model, multiple AI/GenAI use cases across risk management, customer engagement, and operations — combining strategic vision with technical execution to deliver measurable business impact. Today, Deepa is recognized as a thought leader in responsible AI, data democratization, and platform engineering. She serves on the Global Editorial Board of CDO Magazine, shaping the dialogue on how enterprises can innovate responsibly while scaling AI for long-term growth.

Kader Sakkaria

Head of Global Data Technology

Kader Sakkaria

Head of Global Data Technology

Gallagher

About Speaker

Professional Experience:
Prior to joining Gallagher, Kader led all Digital and Technology across
RNL. He is an investor in Ai based Technology startup for Mental Well-being.

Prior to joining RNL, Kader was the Head of Business, Technology and Portfolio Management at Realogy/Anywhere. Previously, Kader has led large scale technology transformation initiatives for fortune 500 companies like BMO Financial Group, Deloitte and Accenture. He was the country head for TransUnion in South Asia. He has led PMO, offshore delivery centers at various organizations State Farm Insurance, HighMark(Blue Cross Blue Shield of PA), US Foods and Ryder Logistics. He comes with deep vertical expertise in Healthcare, Logistics, Financial Services, Consumer and Industrial Products. Kader owns a patent in predictive model for relocation estimation and had co-authored a book on Digital Transformation – Chaos by Design.

Board Experience:
President of Board, Naperville Community Television (NCTV17)
Board Member Loaves and Fishes
Board Member & Advisor - QuaXigma Inc
Board Member & Investor – Alagzoo Corp LLC
SECA Commissioner – City of Naperville
Technology and Innovation Commissioner – City of Aurora

Education:
Kader has earned Masters in Computer Science from University of Madras (India) and MBA in Global Management from Kellogg School of Management (Northwestern University).

Abhimanyuu Ahuja

Director & Head Process Design - Business Architecture

Abhimanyuu Ahuja

Director & Head Process Design - Business Architecture

IGM Financial, Canada

About Speaker

Abhi Ahuja is a seasoned Data and Analytics leader with over 20 years of experience driving enterprise-wide transformation across the Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance sectors. His expertise spans Data Analytics, Data Governance, Data Quality, Digital Transformation, Privacy, and Operational Excellence. Currently, Abhi leads the Process Design team within the Business Architecture, Data, and Applications group at IGM Financial in Canada. He has held strategic and tactical roles at Fortune 500 companies including GE, Wells Fargo, Key Bank, Bupa Insurance, ATB Financial, Scotiabank, and Thomson Reuters. With keen interests in public speaking, Abhi has presented at several Dataversity Conferences, sharing insights on data strategy and transformation. A strong advocate of continuous improvement & a lifelong learner, Abhi holds an MBA, is a certified CDMP, Certified in Cybersecurity, Master Black Belt, Black Belt and is pursuing his AIGP certification from IAPP.

Joe Belafonte

SVP of Product, Data & Experience

Joe Belafonte

SVP of Product, Data & Experience

Direct Agents

About Speaker

Joe Belafonte is the SVP of Product, Data & Experience at Direct Agents, a leading independent and minority-owned marketing agency specializing in performance-driven growth. With over a decade of experience, Joe has been instrumental in building and scaling the agency’s data and analytics and SEO team, as well as developing its proprietary platform, Kanopy AI, which empowers brands through automation, predictive analytics, and AI-powered decision-making. His focus on innovation, efficiency, and insight-driven marketing helps clients navigate the digital landscape and unlock long-term, measurable growth.

Ken Pfiel

Chief Data Officer

Ken Pfiel

Chief Data Officer

Commonwealth of Virginia

About Speaker

Served as the Chief Data Officer for the Commonwealth of Virginia, where he was instrumental in establishing the state's Office of Data Governance and Analytics and launching the Commonwealth Data Trust. He stepped down from this role in July 2025 after three years of service. * Focused on using data for efficient government and improved citizen services, leveraging predictive modeling and analytics. * Advocated for the importance of high-quality data in AI applications to avoid inaccurate or "stupid" outcomes. * Held executive and technical positions at numerous companies, including Microsoft, Dell, Capital IQ, Miradiant Global Network, Avaya, Merrill Lynch, according to the Ponemon Institute. * Co-authored Microsoft's "Best Practices for Enterprise Security" white papers. * Served as Chief Architect for TechDemocracy and CISO for MFS Investment Management and Pioneer Investments, notes StateTech Magazine. * Held a role as Vice President and Managing Director of Data Protection and Governance at OneMain Financial * Reported on security risks and vulnerability analysis for Windows IT Pro Magazine. * Founded "The NT Toolbox" website, later acquired by GFI Software. * Industry Recognition: * Distinguished Fellow of the Ponemon Institute. * Member of CDO Magazine's Global Editorial Board. * Subject Matter Expert for CompTIA's original Security+ certification. * Pfeil's contributions have had a significant impact on the industry, particularly in the areas of risk management, data, and enterprise security.

Sasha Fay

Director, Advanced Analytics

Sasha Fay

Director, Advanced Analytics

OLG

About Speaker

Sasha Fay is a transformative leader in advanced analytics, currently heading OLG’s AI and data science team. With over a decade of experience, Sasha has led enterprise-wide innovation, from deploying machine learning at scale to reimagining core products through data. A passionate educator, Sasha teaches machine learning at the postgraduate level and co-leads Data for Good, applying AI for social impact. Sasha holds a Master’s in Management Analytics from Queen’s and a Statistics degree from Waterloo, anchoring a career defined by bold thinking, ethical AI, and change leadership

Olga Tsubiks

Director, AI and Data Product

Olga Tsubiks

Director, AI and Data Product

RBC

About Speaker

Olga is a passionate AI/ML leader. She has been recognized as top 25 women in AI in Canada and top 100 women globally advancing AI. She has spent the last 15 years in various senior roles in technology, specifically in data science, big data, data engineering, analytics, and data visualization. She is a Director of AI and Data Product at the Royal Bank of Canada. Outside of her work at RBC, she has worked directly with global organizations such as the UN Environment World Conservation Monitoring Centre, World Resources Institute, and prominent Canadian non-profits such as War Child Canada and Rainbow Railroad on various data science and analytics challenges.

Michael Mocanu

Senior Director, AI & Data Science

Michael Mocanu

Senior Director, AI & Data Science

Liberty Mutual Insurance

About Speaker

Michael is Senior Director, AI & Data Science at Liberty Mutual Insurance and has more than 20 years of experience helping finance and technology organizations use data and analytics for growth, transformation, and achievement of strategic objectives. In the current role, he is responsible for the advancement of decision data science and AI capabilities throughout the organization - growing high performing analytics and engineering teams, leading value driven product strategy and innovation, and bringing together diverse business ecosystems. Michael is the inventor on a number of highly cited patents related to GPS and location-based AI and a frequent speaker on embedding AI in organizations.

Lamiaa Farrag

Independent Consultant

Lamiaa Farrag

Independent Consultant

About Speaker

Lamiaa Farrag is a global transformation leader with over two decades of experience leading Centers of Excellence for organizations across Europe, the Middle East & Africa, CIS, and the U.S., shaping data strategy, digital transformation, and growth marketing. She has led major initiatives at Nestlé, Cigna, Schaeffler Group, and TÜV NORD, partnering with global brands including Mazda, Jeep, AXA, Hilton, and Continental Tires. Lamiaa delivers scalable impact across complex, multicultural ecosystems. Her approach to interoperable data strategy breaks down silos, accelerates digital maturity, and unlocks growth in an era defined by intelligent technologies. At the Data Intelligence Summit 2026, Lamiaa will share insights on harnessing interoperable data strategies to fuel business growth, enhance digital maturity, and enable organizations to thrive in the era of intelligent technologies.

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