Denis joined Morgan Stanley in March, 2023 as an Enterprise Architect within Tech Strategy. In this role, he partners with the divisional architecture groups maturing the architectural culture and enabling Tech Strategy and Modernization initiatives across the firm.

Prior to joining Morgan Stanley, Denis served as a Director of Transformation & Innovation for the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC). In that role, he was responsible for architecture frameworks, enablement pipelines and product/service lines for Private and Public Cloud. Prior to that role, Denis led the firms first DevOps Program that included the introduction of Agile, Application and Infrastructure Modernization and Developer Productivity initiatives. In both roles, he was an active advocate for developer productivity, architecture as a service and open-source initiatives.

Denis passionate about client impact, delivering value and maturing the organization by bringing technology and business together.

Denis joined Morgan Stanley in March, 2023 as an Enterprise Architect within Tech Strategy. In this role, he partners with the divisional architecture groups maturing the architectural culture and enabling Tech Strategy and Modernization initiatives ... Show more

At Discover Financial Services, my focus as Senior Principal Model Governance encompasses overseeing AI Risk Framework use cases and enforcing model risk policies. My role demands a deep understanding of AI, particularly in the realms of AI/GenAI intake, classification, and final risk assessments. This expertise is instrumental in developing and maintaining key risk indicators (KRIs) and reporting to the Model Risk Committee.

At Discover Financial Services, my focus as Senior Principal Model Governance encompasses overseeing AI Risk Framework use cases and enforcing model risk policies. My role demands a deep understanding of AI, particularly in the realms of AI/GenAI int... Show more

John has been in the world of card present and card not present for the last 20+ years. John has partnered and implemented B2C and B2B global payment solutions with some of the most influential software companies (including Microsoft, Oracle, Salesforce, Epicor, Intuit, Eci Solutions, McKesson, and NCR, etc.) in the world.

John has a strong background in Microsoft F&O and BC payments, Marketplaces, mobile payments, Installment payments, PCI, VISA VMPI, PSD2, GDPR, e-wallets, ACH, tax management, Card Account Updater, Level 2 & 3, and end to end encrypted payment solutions.

John has been in the world of card present and card not present for the last 20+ years. John has partnered and implemented B2C and B2B global payment solutions with some of the most influential software companies (including Microsoft, Oracle, Salesfo... Show more

Paril Ghori is a results-driven Data Scientist with a proven track record in machine learning, deep learning, NLP, and MLOps, specializing in financial analytics, anomaly detection, and predictive modeling. With expertise in Apache Spark, PyTorch, TensorFlow, and cloud computing (AWS, Databricks, Azure), Paril has delivered impactful AI solutions that drive business efficiency and innovation.

Paril has built anomaly detection models that saved thousands of manual hours and identified financial anomalies worth millions of dollars. His predictive modeling expertise has led to an 80% accurate business lead forecasting system, empowering organizations to make data-driven strategic decisions. He has also spearheaded the development of AI-powered sentiment analysis for earnings call transcripts, helping businesses understand market impact on stock prices.

Beyond modeling, Paril has optimized MLOps pipelines, automated cloud-based analytics, and developed scalable anomaly detection frameworks to support multiple business cases. His work on NLP-driven customer insights and marketing mix models has directly increased ROI and operational efficiency.

Passionate about innovation, Paril thrives at the intersection of AI, cloud computing, and business intelligence, continuously pushing the boundaries of data science to create real-world impact.

Paril Ghori is a results-driven Data Scientist with a proven track record in machine learning, deep learning, NLP, and MLOps, specializing in financial analytics, anomaly detection, and predictive modeling. With expertise in Apache Spark, PyTorch, Te... Show more

Zack Shelton brings a distinctive perspective to the technology sector, shaped by an unconventional journey that began in professional kitchens. His foundation as a chef instilled crucial skills in process optimization, team coordination, and delivering excellence under pressure—capabilities that would prove invaluable throughout his career evolution.
Moving from the culinary world to customer-facing design, he applied his creative expertise and attention to detail in creating custom countertops. This role merged his understanding of practical workflows from his chef experience with the technical precision required in custom design. Combining these skills enhanced his ability to translate complex customer requirements into precise technical specifications while focusing on practical functionality.
His progression into industrial engineering and continuous improvement was a natural evolution, drawing on his experience in optimizing workflows from both kitchen management and custom design. This background developed into a Continuous Improvement Change Agent role, where he led business transformation initiatives that bridged operational challenges with technological solutions. His diverse experience proved particularly valuable in understanding how processes impact people at every level of an organization.
His transition into development within the finance sector leveraged his comprehensive background in process optimization and systematic thinking. In this role, he specialized in creating solutions that streamlined financial operations through innovative technology and automation applications, drawing on his experience managing complex workflows from his culinary and manufacturing backgrounds.
Currently serving as a Solutions Engineer at SHI, he focuses on Data and AI initiatives, bringing together his multifaceted experience to deliver comprehensive solutions. His unique career path, from Professional and long-term care kitchens and manufacturing to advanced technology implementation, enables him to approach AI and data challenges with a holistic perspective that considers both technical capabilities and practical business applications.
This diverse background provides him with a distinctive ability to bridge the gap between traditional business operations and emerging AI technologies, making complex concepts accessible to diverse audiences while delivering practical, results-driven solutions that genuinely work in real-world environments.

Zack Shelton brings a distinctive perspective to the technology sector, shaped by an unconventional journey that began in professional kitchens. His foundation as a chef instilled crucial skills in process optimization, team coordination, and deliver... Show more

I am the first person in Japan to be awarded the title of Kubestronaut.
I was also awarded 2024 APN AWS Top Engineer.

As an infrastructure engineer, I have been responsible for the design, maintenance, and operation of multiple enterprise systems, both on-premise and in the cloud.
Currently, I am responsible for the infrastructure of a microservices common infrastructure for a financial institution, which adopts many cloud-native technologies such as Kubernetes and Linkerd.

I am the first person in Japan to be awarded the title of Kubestronaut. I was also awarded 2024 APN AWS Top Engineer. As an infrastructure engineer, I have been responsible for the design, maintenance, and operation of multiple enterprise systems... Show more

Amrita Choudhary is a dynamic finance professional with over a decade of experience in financial strategy, lease accounting, audits, and process automation. She currently serves as an Accounting Manager at Wasabi Technologies, where she leads AI adoption in finance, optimizing operations, compliance, and financial accuracy. Her expertise in ASC 842 compliance, GAAP adherence, and financial transformation has positioned her as an industry thought leader in the evolving intersection of finance and technology.

Beyond her corporate role, Amrita is deeply committed to professional development and industry engagement. She is the Director of Membership & Networking for the ICAI Seattle Chapter, fostering connections, organizing industry events, and promoting knowledge-sharing initiatives among finance professionals. She is also the co-founder of Narratives of Numbers, a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing awareness of accounting’s impact on businesses and society.

Amrita’s academic credentials include an MS in Financial Analytics and an MBA in Finance from Bentley University, as well as the prestigious Chartered Accountant (CA) designation from ICAI India. Her thought leadership contributions are widely recognized, with her insights featured in Kiplinger Advisor Collective, where she discusses the challenges and opportunities of AI integration in finance.

Previously, Amrita played a key role at Flipkart, optimizing financial processes and driving operational efficiency. Her diverse experience across industries, combined with her passion for AI-driven financial transformation, makes her a sought-after expert in accounting innovation and automation.

A mentor, speaker, and advocate for financial technology, Amrita continues to bridge the gap between traditional finance and emerging technologies, shaping the future of AI in financial operations.

Amrita Choudhary is a dynamic finance professional with over a decade of experience in financial strategy, lease accounting, audits, and process automation. She currently serves as an Accounting Manager at Wasabi Technologies, where she leads AI adop... Show more

As a Digitalisation Expert within the Finance sector, my background spans over 6 years of dedicated experience in data analysis and visualization. Specializing in the development of user-friendly, visually engaging dashboards, my focus lies in enabling businesses to derive data-informed decisions. Proficiency extends to the utilization of essential tools like Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Power BI, and SQL, integral to my role in executing BI projects while adhering to agile and scrum methodologies. Proficiently operating both autonomously and as part of collaborative teams, my aim is to ensure optimal efficiency in project outcomes.

As a Digitalisation Expert within the Finance sector, my background spans over 6 years of dedicated experience in data analysis and visualization. Specializing in the development of user-friendly, visually engaging dashboards, my focus lies in enabli... Show more

As a servant technology leader with over 18 years experience, He is the organizer of DevOps meetup and annual conference DevOpsDays Singapore and holds Bachelors in Computer Science. He has worked with some of the world’s largest names in banking, technology, and other industrial era companies, advising on their digital transformation strategies. Architect, Open Source contributor and Public Speaker. Sergiu was selected on the list of Top 100 Fintech mentors in Singapore.

As a servant technology leader with over 18 years experience, He is the organizer of DevOps meetup and annual conference DevOpsDays Singapore and holds Bachelors in Computer Science. He has worked with some of the world’s largest names in banking, te... Show more

I'm a seasoned economist with over 10 years of experience in auditing, accounting, and management control. His career spans various industries, where he has excelled in financial diagnostics, internal control systems, and process optimization. Francisco has a strong background in financial analysis, risk assessment, and strategic planning, complemented by advanced expertise in tools like Power BI, SQL, and SAP. Currently, he is a financial advisor, assisting companies in achieving sustainable growth through tailored financial strategies.

I'm a seasoned economist with over 10 years of experience in auditing, accounting, and management control. His career spans various industries, where he has excelled in financial diagnostics, internal control systems, and process optimization. Franci... Show more

Founder and Chairman of i3 Lending, Inc., which provides Mortgage Lending operations across 23 states in the United States. Sujay is also the founder and Joint Chief Ecosystem Officer of Istakapaza Inc., a blockchain based ecosystem-commerce platform that simplifies home mortgage and reduces friction for every participant. Sujay is a first-generation entrepreneur and the Chairman of the broader Moham group that he owns and runs with businesses across the US, India and Dubai. A visionary with strong leadership skills, Sujay, has had a consistent track record of transforming business strategies into profits and growth while maintaining a healthy balance between customers, employees and corporate management stakeholders.

Founder and Chairman of i3 Lending, Inc., which provides Mortgage Lending operations across 23 states in the United States. Sujay is also the founder and Joint Chief Ecosystem Officer of Istakapaza Inc., a blockchain based ecosystem-commerce platform... Show more

Tremaine Wills, MBA, is a Financial Planner, Speaker, and Author dedicated to helping individuals, business owners, and employees take control of their finances and reduce overwhelm. Through her Financial Services Social Enterprise, Mind Over Money, she offers services ranging from financial literacy and wellness solutions to taxes, accounting, and investment guidance—partnering with employers and event hosts to drive transformative financial change.

Tremaine Wills, MBA, is a Financial Planner, Speaker, and Author dedicated to helping individuals, business owners, and employees take control of their finances and reduce overwhelm. Through her Financial Services Social Enterprise, Mind Over Money, ... Show more

Be Better Today Than You Were Yesterday…
Dr. Daniel Ford, CISO at Jovia Financial Credit Union, isn't just focused on today's threats. He believes in constantly evolving, like competing against your future self. This drives him to cultivate a culture of continuous learning at Jovia, ensuring both the organization and its people stay ahead of the curve.
“If you classify yourself as a lifelong learner, you tend to retain 60% - 70% of the knowledge over time,” says Ford. “Additionally, if you classify yourself as a lifelong teacher, you tend to retain 90%+ of the knowledge.”
Dr. Ford's academic journey began with a BS in Computer Science and blossomed into a Doctor of Science (DSC) in Information Assurance. He further complemented this expertise with an MBA, graduating in the top 20% despite no prior business background. This thirst for knowledge extends beyond academics. He champions lifelong learning within Jovia, mandating training hours and actively seeking talent from underserved communities.
Dr. Ford leads with empathy, fostering an environment that embraces diverse perspectives. His growth mindset extends beyond work. A black belt in another martial art, he's currently a one stripe blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Kroyler Gracie, demonstrating his commitment to stepping outside his comfort zone. When not safeguarding Jovia, he distills award-winning spirits at Dragon’s Mouth Distillery and hosts a popular YouTube show.
Dr. Ford's legacy extends beyond technical expertise, boasting over 20 years of experience at McAfee, Unisys, and other notable organizations. What is Dr. Ford’s greatest achievement? Great question as he doesn't dwell on past accomplishments; as he says, "you are only as good as what you do next." However, he measures success by the number of people he has empowered to grow.

Be Better Today Than You Were Yesterday… Dr. Daniel Ford, CISO at Jovia Financial Credit Union, isn't just focused on today's threats. He believes in constantly evolving, like competing against your future self. This drives him to cultivate a cultur... Show more

Following a career in Capital Markets and Fintech, Ori shifted his focus into the NFT market, resulting in becoming the ideator and President behind NFT BAZL. Ori is armed with extensive financial experience, having worked at both Goldman Sachs and TD Securities, in addition to serving as the Head of Corporate Development at GDA.
He has set out to bring the digital world into antiquated sectors, constantly working to bridge the gap between the real world and the blockchain, focusing on creating investment grade digital assets that are accessible by the masses.
Ori's core strength is his forward-looking and solutions focused mindset. He marries practicality with innovation, bringing a big-picture, entrepreneurial framework to original projects.

Following a career in Capital Markets and Fintech, Ori shifted his focus into the NFT market, resulting in becoming the ideator and President behind NFT BAZL. Ori is armed with extensive financial experience, having worked at both Goldman Sachs and T... Show more

After two business awards and a successful exit in the gaming industry, Sophia started using her sell-side experience to advise firms and investors on M&A deals in the fintech space.

After two business awards and a successful exit in the gaming industry, Sophia started using her sell-side experience to advise firms and investors on M&A deals in the fintech space. Show more

Vinay Kumar Sankarapu is the Founder and CEO of Arya.ai. He did his Bachelor's and Masters in Mechanical Engineering at IIT Bombay. His research was in Deep Learning and published thesis on CNNs in manufacturing. He started Arya.ai in 2013 when he was in IIT B, along with Deekshith to democratize Deep Learning. Since then, Vinay had been working with multiple enterprise in regulated industries like Banks, Insurers and Financial Services.

Vinay Kumar also leads the R&D of AryaXAI product. He wrote multiple guest articles on ‘Responsible AI’, ‘AI usage risks in BFSIs’ and ‘AI Governance framework’. He presented multiple technical and industry presentations globally - Nvidia GTC (SF & Mumbai), ReWork (SF & London), Cypher (Bangalore), Nasscom(Bangalore), TEDx (Mumbai) etc. He was the youngest member of ‘AI task force’ set up by the Indian Commerce and Ministry in 2017 to provide inputs on policy and to support AI adoption as part of Industry 4.0. He was listed in Forbes Asia 30-Under-30 under the technology section.

Vinay Kumar Sankarapu is the Founder and CEO of Arya.ai. He did his Bachelor's and Masters in Mechanical Engineering at IIT Bombay. His research was in Deep Learning and published thesis on CNNs in manufacturing. He started Arya.ai in 2013 when he wa... Show more

Two decades of creating software in financial services and the thrill of seeing solutions come to life is still there. Enthusiastic champion of gender parity in STEM education, and inclusion in software development. She once built a LEGO Death Star.

Two decades of creating software in financial services and the thrill of seeing solutions come to life is still there. Enthusiastic champion of gender parity in STEM education, and inclusion in software development. She once built a LEGO Death Star. Show more

I am a seasoned software architect with over two decades of experience, specializing in enterprise architecture within the international banking sector. I am providing enterprise, data and domain architecture consulting as well as leading digital banking initiatives in European banking sector. In this role, I collaborate with stakeholders across the bank on its digital transformation journey, leading initiatives that include the redesign of digital banking architecture and business architecture alignment. I work with a large, collaborative teams of over 20 development squads, encompassing around 200 people, to achieve these objectives.

I was an Enterprise Architect at International banking group headquarters. There, I collaborated with the Enterprise Architecture Management team on defining architecture principles and application solutions at the group level. I was the lead architect for implementing Event-Driven Architecture across the group's head office and network in 13 countries. My work set the standards for architecture principles and governance within the organization.

As part of efforts to introduce new architectural practices I lead numerous lectures and workshops as part of upskilling and enablement effort.

In addition to my roles in established financial institutions, I am the founder and CEO of a consulting and development company focused on digital transformation in the banking and fintech sectors. The company is involved in consulting services, system analysis, data architecture, and project management, and is currently developing an internal AI project to foster innovation in digital transformation.

I am a seasoned software architect with over two decades of experience, specializing in enterprise architecture within the international banking sector. I am providing enterprise, data and domain architecture consulting as well as leading digital ban... Show more

With over two decades of professional experience, I have been recognized for my significant achievements in software system engineering. My expertise spans financial applications, data integration & transformation, cloud computing, and project management. This diverse skill set has allowed me to make substantial contributions to my field, demonstrating a level of versatility and proficiency that is rare in the industry.

My commitment to innovation and industry advancement is further evidenced by my active role in academic and professional communities. As Forbes Technology Council, Fellow BCS and IEEE Senior Member, I have authored scholarly journal papers related to Finance domain, contributing valuable insights and knowledge to the IT community. My intellectual contributions extend beyond academic writing, as I have also reviewed books on Cybersecurity and Embracing DevOps for release management, two critical areas in modern computing.

Recognition from peers and industry bodies has further solidified my standing in the IT world. I have been honored with the Titan Business Award, Global Recognition Award and International Achievers Award for my contributions to the field and received an Award of Appreciation from the Office of the Governor, Austin. Texas. These accolades reflect my impact on both a local and international scale, showcasing my global influence.

Moreover, my role as an industry judge for prestigious awards, including the Globee Awards, Stevie Awards, and NEAL Awards, highlights my respected position in the IT community. This involvement not only signifies recognition from my peers but also my commitment to fostering excellence in others, a hallmark of true leadership.

With over two decades of professional experience, I have been recognized for my significant achievements in software system engineering. My expertise spans financial applications, data integration & transformation, cloud computing, and project manage... Show more

Software engineer specialising in financial services and design systems.

Software engineer specialising in financial services and design systems. Show more

Andrea loves working at the convergence of technology, business and design: he is currently Head of Innovation at Haier Europe where he launched Washpass, a circular appliance-as-a-service subscription. Previously he focused on startup financing and innovation matchmaking, running the acceleration platform of banking group Intesa Sanpaolo, and helping launch a leading digital VC fund in Italy. Andrea started his career with formative experiences in management consulting and at Google, and has a degree in Economics from Bocconi University in Milan. Married with three kids, he likes studying the narrative potential of video games.

Andrea loves working at the convergence of technology, business and design: he is currently Head of Innovation at Haier Europe where he launched Washpass, a circular appliance-as-a-service subscription. Previously he focused on startup financing and ... Show more

I am an AI/ML practitioner with 15+ years of experience in the finance industry. Throughout my career across various roles and organizations, one thing that remained constant has been my curiosity and drive to harness the potential of data for the benefit of the organization. In my current role, I am spearheading some of the key Generative AI initiatives that has a significant potential cost benefits for the organization.

I am an AI/ML practitioner with 15+ years of experience in the finance industry. Throughout my career across various roles and organizations, one thing that remained constant has been my curiosity and drive to harness the potential of data for the be... Show more

Joe Erle has been in the insurance industry since 2008, specializing in AI and Fintech risks for publicly traded companies.

His agency, C3 Insurance, was recently named to the San Diego Business Journal's 2024 Fastest Growing Companies list and Joe was named as a 2024 Cybersecurity Steward Award finalist. Joe is based in San Diego and brings deep insights into emerging tech vulnerabilities.

Joe balances his work with family time, often playing Fortnite with his two sons.

His experience bridges insurance, technology, and practical cybersecurity, offering a unique perspective on modern cyber risk management.

Joe Erle has been in the insurance industry since 2008, specializing in AI and Fintech risks for publicly traded companies. His agency, C3 Insurance, was recently named to the San Diego Business Journal's 2024 Fastest Growing Companies list and J... Show more

Varuneshwar serves as a Solutions Architect at Amazon Web Services, where he specializes in assisting Financial Services Industry (FSI) clients in optimizing their cloud-based operations and achieving excellence in their digital transformation initiatives.

Varuneshwar serves as a Solutions Architect at Amazon Web Services, where he specializes in assisting Financial Services Industry (FSI) clients in optimizing their cloud-based operations and achieving excellence in their digital transformation initia... Show more

Senior Marketing Leader with over 8 years of experience propelling customer and revenue growth across Africa's Finance, Technology, and E-commerce industries. Also, a start-up mentor with Antler, helping founders drive business growth across the EMEA region. I am driven by curiosity and always seeking to challenge the status quo and solve societal problems.

Senior Marketing Leader with over 8 years of experience propelling customer and revenue growth across Africa's Finance, Technology, and E-commerce industries. Also, a start-up mentor with Antler, helping founders drive business growth across the EMEA... Show more

Software developer driven by a desire to advance society using tech. PhD Econ researcher at the University of Cape Town. Winner of the 2020 Schmidt Futures Reimagine Challenge (Eric Schmidt).

Software developer driven by a desire to advance society using tech. PhD Econ researcher at the University of Cape Town. Winner of the 2020 Schmidt Futures Reimagine Challenge (Eric Schmidt). Show more

Roberto Delgado Castro is a data scientist, researcher and compliance officer of Direccion General de Desarrollo Social y Asignaciones Familiares (DESAF), part of the Ministry of Labor and Social Security.
He has degrees in finance and banking, marketing and sales and management. He also holds a specialization in E-Learning.
For the last ten years, he has developed important data science projects in DESAF.
He is the author of the books DT Quantum Model, Metadatology and Correlations in R,

Roberto Delgado Castro is a data scientist, researcher and compliance officer of Direccion General de Desarrollo Social y Asignaciones Familiares (DESAF), part of the Ministry of Labor and Social Security. He has degrees in finance and banking, mar... Show more

Eva Padilla, CEO of Founder Access, is a funding expert with 20 years of experience working with CDFI's and traditional banks such as JP Morgan Chase & Bank of America. This has brought a great advantage in helping entrepreneurs by bringing diverse insight and knowledge when providing access to capital solutions.
She is passionate in helping under resourced Startup, BIPOC, and Women entrepreneurs grow and develop their businesses by providing expert advice and consultation that help promote sustainability for startup and existing businesses.

Eva Padilla, CEO of Founder Access, is a funding expert with 20 years of experience working with CDFI's and traditional banks such as JP Morgan Chase & Bank of America. This has brought a great advantage in helping entrepreneurs by bringing diverse i... Show more

https://www.linkedin.com/in/damienpetre/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/damienpetre/ Show more

A Tedx speaker and a 15-year veteran in the financial technology industry, Armando Pantoja has successfully led technology growth and innovation at some of the world’s largest companies including Home Depot & AAA. in 2016, Armando transitioned from his software engineering leadership role at AAA to the blockchain and crypto world when he created ICORanker, an AI-driven web application that allowed investors to easily assess new crypto projects. After a multimillion-dollar buyout by a publicly traded company, Armando has become a respected thought leader in the cryptocurrency space and known worldwide as a disciplined, focused and influential cryptocurrency, finance & technology innovator.

In 2017, Pantoja chose to sell ICORanker.com to Codebase Ventures, a publicly traded company for $2.5 million. This choice made him a millionaire and gave him the foundation and funds to start Quant Index, a company focused on investing and developing emerging tech.

In 2020, Armando was awarded the IBM Blockchain Award for his innovations in using Blockchain to Crowdsource COVID-19 Solutions.

in 2022, Along with Kevin O’leary, Armando was added to the Benzinga Advisory Council for Blockchain & Cryptocurrency

Advanced Bio
College Education
- 2001-2005 – Bachelor of Science, Computer Science/Engineering, Austin Peay State University, Tennessee
- 2000-2005 – Bachelor of Arts, Languages and Literature, Austin Peay State University, Tennessee
Post college
A regular contributor to CompTIA (the largest certification company in the country) as a Subject Matter Expert. I offer my expertise to write and prepare new certification exams for software security.
Regular Contributor to 2600 Magazine.
Continued research in software security, cryptocurrency and blockchain technology.
Presented at conferences in US, Latin America, and Europe as a Thought Leader on cryptocurrency and blockchain technology.
Considered one of the foremost Financial Technology experts in the world.

A Tedx speaker and a 15-year veteran in the financial technology industry, Armando Pantoja has successfully led technology growth and innovation at some of the world’s largest companies including Home Depot & AAA. in 2016, Armando transitioned from h... Show more