100 Most Influential AI Leaders in USA 2025

Ashwini Ghogare is the CEO and Head of AI and Automation for Drug Discovery (AIDD) at Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, a corporate venture in AI and robotics for drug discovery across Life Science and Healthcare. A recognized leader in transformational drug discovery technologies, Ashwini has driven successful innovation in AI-powered drug design, including the launch of AIDDISON™ and global commercialization of Synthia™. Ashwini’s career also includes founding a biotech startup, SingletO2 Therapeutics.

Manav Misra is the Chief Data and Analytics Officer at Regions Bank, where he leads the enterprise-wide data strategy and drives innovation across the organization. A seasoned data and technology executive, Manav has a proven track record of building scalable AI, machine learning, and advanced analytics solutions across financial services, retail, and healthcare sectors. Manav is known for enabling data-driven decision-making and delivering measurable business outcomes through cross-functional teams of data scientists, technologists, and strategists operating globally.

Dr. Franziska Bell is the Chief Data, AI and Analytics Officer at Ford Motor Company, where she leads enterprise efforts to harness data and AI for transformative impact. A seasoned technology executive with cross-industry experience spanning automotive, energy, and tech, Fran has built award-winning AI platforms that have driven billions in EBIT, significantly improved operational safety, and delivered major gains in productivity. Fran holds a PhD in Theoretical Chemistry from UC Berkeley and completed her postdoctoral work at Caltech.

Rama Donepudi is the Senior Vice President and Global CIO at Mead Johnson Nutrition, recognized for his strategic leadership in driving global business transformation and digital innovation. With a strong track record in the consumer healthcare and packaged goods sectors, Rama has led complex SAP implementations and large-scale IT modernization efforts that have delivered measurable impact across global operations. His expertise lies in aligning technology with business goals, enabling agility, and fostering innovation to accelerate growth and operational efficiency worldwide.

Geeta Pyne, Senior Managing Director and Chief Architect at TIAA, brings over 25 years of experience in enterprise architecture and technology strategy. She has led major digital transformation efforts and built resilient, data-driven frameworks across diverse industries. At TIAA, Geeta is instrumental in aligning IT strategy with business growth and operational excellence, driving innovation and long-term value through scalable technology solutions.

Temi Odesanya, Responsible AI Leader at AIG, is a dynamic technology executive known for balancing innovation with ethical AI governance. With deep expertise in automation, cognitive intelligence, and risk management, she ensures responsible deployment of emerging technologies at scale. A hands-on leader and dedicated data science professor, Temi is passionate about transforming operations through data-driven strategies and fostering the next generation of AI talent.

Zulfikar Sidi, Managing Director of Data & Analytics for Retail, Preferred, and Wealth Management at Bank of America, brings over 23 years of experience in information technology and data strategy. He has consistently demonstrated strong leadership in designing and executing comprehensive data management solutions that integrate traditional business intelligence, data warehousing, and big data, across both on-premise and cloud environments.

Gary Sorrentino, Global CIO at Zoom, is a seasoned technology leader with a distinguished career across executive roles including CIO, CTO, CISO, and board member. He has been at the forefront of digital transformation and innovation at global enterprises, shaping how technology drives business value. With deep expertise in strategic IT governance, cybersecurity, and enterprise infrastructure, Gary continues to redefine how organizations leverage technology to thrive in a fast-changing digital world.

Dr. Amar Singh is a visionary digital transformation leader with over 25 years of experience across academia, a federal agency, and industry; spanning biotech, toxicology, pharmaceuticals, and beauty sectors. As Vice President for North America R&I IT, Digital Transformation, Data, and Data Sciences at L’Oréal USA, he champions insight-driven decision-making through AI/ML and automation, delivering significant operational savings and accelerated innovation. Previously, he led scientific computing modernization at the Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, ORD, US EPA, and pioneered scalable data platforms, architecture, and digital solutions at Syngenta. 

Anurag Minocha is the Head of Enterprise Data Products at Webster Bank, where he leads initiatives that deliver data-driven solutions to enhance decision-making and drive business value. With a strong background in banking and asset management, he has built and led high-performing teams, implemented data governance frameworks, and driven enterprise-wide data strategies. Anurag’s career spans hands-on technical roles to senior leadership, with a focus on innovation, operational efficiency, and regulatory data management. He leverages AI and machine learning to modernize data solutions, unlock insights, and enable smarter business outcomes.

Ashish Mishra is the Vice President of the Global Data and AI Platform at Chubb, where he leads the development and modernization of enterprise-scale data, machine learning, and analytics platforms. With over 15 years of experience in data engineering, cloud strategy, and AI enablement, Ashish is passionate about driving innovation through scalable, secure, and intelligent solutions.

Chandhu Nair, SVP of Data, AI & Innovation at Lowe’s Companies, Inc., brings over two decades of experience in technology and digital transformation. He has led impactful initiatives across AI, data, and innovation, including flagship launches such as Pro Rewards and the Lowe’s Media Network. Prior to Lowe’s, he served as CEO of Cognitive Retail Inc. and held leadership roles at Staples and Infosys. A Harvard graduate, Chandhu actively advises global tech startups and serves on several industry and nonprofit boards, championing innovation and responsible tech growth.

Ganesh Sivakumar is the Global Chief Data, Analytics & AI Officer at Mead Johnson Nutrition, where he is driving the development of advanced AI and machine learning capabilities to transform the business and deliver new value across customer, consumer, and commerce functions. With a diverse background spanning Fortune 100 companies, mid-sized firms, and startups, Ganesh has worked across industries including healthcare, insurance, manufacturing, consumer goods, retail, and e-commerce. He also serves as a trusted advisor and anchor partner to AI- and data-driven startups, helping them scale through strategic data innovation.

Kim is the Chief Data and AI Officer at NRG Energy, leading enterprise-wide initiatives to harness Data and AI for business growth and enhanced customer experiences. With over 20 years of IT leadership experience, he has driven large-scale digital transformations, cybersecurity advancements, and AI platform adoption. Previously serving as NRG’s CIO, Kim has deep expertise across energy trading systems, data governance, and enterprise technology strategy. His career spans roles in renewables, M&A, compliance, and critical infrastructure protection.

Mickey Atwal is the Chief Data & AI Officer for Pioneering Intelligence at Flagship Pioneering, a role in which he brings over 25 years of leadership spanning AI, genomics, and biotechnology. He has built and scaled global teams across academia, biopharma, and venture capital to drive innovation from early discovery through late-stage clinical development. During his tenure at Regeneron, Mickey led a 70-person AI and molecular profiling organization that propelled the Covid‑19 antibody cocktail, Regen‑Cov, from screening to regulatory approval in under eight months.

Nishit is a seasoned IT executive with deep expertise in driving strategic technology transformations, global IT architecture, and large-scale system implementations. He has successfully led major M&A integrations and divestitures, while building world-class IT teams to support rapid organizational growth. With hands-on experience across platforms like SAP, Oracle, Workday, and SFDC, Nishit specializes in cloud and data analytics transformation, agile project delivery, and IT governance. His strengths also include global budget management, vendor negotiation, and transforming IT into a customer-focused, value-driven function.

Patrick Bangert is the Chief of Artificial Intelligence at Occidental Petroleum, where he leads a global cross-functional team driving AI initiatives across the enterprise. A globally recognized AI and data science leader, Patrick brings deep expertise in building high-performing teams, delivering transformative AI solutions, and driving product innovation. His career spans both entrepreneurial ventures including founding the software company Algorithmica for the oil and gas industry and leadership roles at global corporations like Samsung SDS, where he led the global AI team. He holds a PhD in mathematics from University College London and has authored three books and numerous articles on applied AI, with several patented technologies to his name.

Prasanna Gopalakrishnan, Chief AI Officer at ADP, is recognized for her visionary leadership in driving digital transformation and embracing the possibilities of emerging technologies. With a keen focus on the evolving demands of the GenAI era, she has consistently championed innovation to address complex business challenges and propel organizations forward. Her career reflects a deep passion for aligning technology with strategic goals, making her a leading force in shaping the future of enterprise AI.

Satheesh Ravala is the Chief Technology Officer at Candescent and a 2025 MachineCon New York honoree, recognized with the CTO Excellence Award for 25 years of leadership across fintech, GRC, and cloud-platform industries. Since joining Candescent in May 2025, he has led the technology strategy for its digital banking platform with a focus on reliability and extensibility. Previously, as CTO at Diligent, he oversaw Engineering, Security, and IT to deliver the unified “Diligent One” vision. He also led a 800+ person engineering team at ICE Mortgage Technology and, earlier, spent eight years at Yahoo building large-scale infrastructure for Mail, Search, and Ads.

Yu (Jason) Gu, Head of Visa AI as Services and Vice President of Artificial Intelligence leads a global team of 180+ engineers and researchers building and operating Visa’s AI products and infrastructure, having launched 30+ AI solutions ranging from real-time fraud detection to generative-AI commerce services. With a PhD in Computer Science from the University of Minnesota, Dr. Gu has authored over 100 publications, holds 74 patents, and has more than 8,800 citations. His career spans roles at MIT, UIUC, IBM Research, and IBM Watson Health, where he built the first public-health cloud for data-driven insights.

Amin is the Chief Data Officer at ADP, where he leads data strategy, governance, AI/ML platforms, and customer-centric product innovation impacting nearly 20% of the U.S. workforce. He also oversees the P&L for ADP’s Data Products business. With a background spanning BCG, startups, and leadership roles at ADP, Amin has played a key role in major initiatives like the Global Cash Card acquisition. His thought leadership on data and the future of work has been featured in top publications like HBR and Fortune.

Ashish Sharma, Executive Director & Vice President of Strategic Data Products at Novartis has over 20 years of experience across pharma, healthcare, insurance, and finance, Ashish has led scalable, compliant product development and enterprise AI initiatives. As a senior leader in data, digital, analytics, and AI, he has built R&D labs and incubators that translate ideas into successful ventures. He is widely recognized for driving innovation, removing execution barriers, and fostering inclusive, high-performing teams.

Ashok Jakati, Chief Technology Officer at Quility Insurance, a recipient of the 2024 InsureTech Award, is recognized for leading enterprise-wide digital transformation through innovation, AI/ML, cloud computing, and real-time analytics. His approach blends scalable, user-centric solutions with a strong focus on customer experience, sustainability, and DEI. Known for driving system modernization and data-driven decision-making, his leadership has consistently delivered measurable ROI, enhanced engagement, and transformative impact across the organization.

Bharti Rai, Senior Vice President and General Manager at Biogen, is a visionary leader with over 25 years of experience across healthcare, life sciences, and the public sector, Bharti has driven large-scale digital and data transformations in commercial operations, omnichannel marketing, and customer experience. At Novartis, she built a 200+ member team and led a $250M digital initiative that delivered strong top-line and operational results. Her decade at Bayer included multiple strategic transformations, and at Deloitte, she managed $100M+ engagements.

Bijit Ghosh is a visionary technology leader with over decades of experience shaping the AI/ML and cloud product landscape in global financial services. A driving force behind enterprise-scale innovation, Bijit has led transformative programs across investment banking, consumer finance, and capital markets building resilient, intelligent platforms that power real-time decisions, automation, and customer personalization.

As Chief AI Officer and leader of Dayforce’s platform engineering team at Dayforce, David champions the convergence of data, artificial intelligence, and governance in Dayforce’s human capital management products supporting over 7,000 customers globally. A respected voice in the industry, David’s perspectives have appeared in Forbes, CIO, HR Times, and numerous other global publications and podcasts. His latest book, AI in Human Terms, supports readers in understanding AI’s foundations, inner workings, and origins.

Jonathan Burley is Director of AI at Bloomberg Industry Group, where he brings over 15 years of experience in building AI models, leading cross-functional teams, and driving real-world impact through sustainable AI systems. With a strong focus on product and strategy, he excels at translating complex insights into actionable outcomes for diverse stakeholders. Jonathan is also the co-founder of Actifai and has previously worked as a strategy consultant and freelance data scientist. He holds a multi-award-winning PhD in Computational Geophysics and Climate.

Maharaj Mukherjee is Senior Vice President and Senior Architect Lead at Bank of America, renowned for over two decades of driving technological innovation across machine learning, cognitive deep learning, blockchain, and IoT. A former IBM Master Inventor Emeritus with over 216 U.S. patents, Maharaj is recognized for his exceptional problem-solving skills and his ability to turn complex ideas into scalable, market-ready solutions. His work continues to shape industry standards and empower global organizations through breakthrough technologies and transformative architectures.

Mandy Olivares Plante is Senior Director of Data Engineering & Analytics at GlobalFoundries, bringing over 20 years of experience across e-commerce, manufacturing, semiconductors, and healthcare. She has led large-scale analytics transformations and data-driven initiatives that have enhanced business performance and innovation. At GlobalFoundries, Mandy oversees the global Data Engineering and Analytics practice, with a focus on platform modernization and advanced analytics enablement.

Murali Kashaboina, PhD, CDH-E, serves as a Consulting Chief Data Officer at Health New England and is a senior leader in Data & AI strategy. An award-winning Chief Digital Officer, Murali is known for leading large-scale digital and data transformations across healthcare, transportation, and manufacturing. His work has delivered SMART hospital solutions that enhance clinician productivity and patient safety, and enabled two major airline mergers by integrating systems and unlocking over $1.5B in revenue synergies.

Peter de Rama is Senior Executive Director of Technology and Digital Transformation at Destination Canada, where he leads the organization’s enterprise architecture, digital solutions, cybersecurity, IT infrastructure, and agile delivery. A results-driven and pragmatic leader, Peter is at the forefront of Canada’s technological advancement, combining strategic vision with hands-on execution. Known for his collaborative approach, he is passionate about delivering durable, value-driven outcomes through agile innovation and future-ready technologies.

Pinaki G., Corporate Vice President at Prime Healthcare, is a global business executive with leadership experience across five continents, overseeing teams of over 5,000 employees and managing $1B in net revenue. He has a proven track record of delivering strategic outcomes in healthcare, operations, and M&A, including driving a $50M revenue uplift within three years. With expertise in establishing global operations, managing $200M in expenses, and unlocking $250M in post-merger value, Pinaki combines data-driven leadership with a strong focus on customer and patient-centric innovation.

Prashanth Chandrasekharan is Head of Digital and Data Science Products at Merck, recognized for his expertise in building and scaling high-performing data science and engineering teams across eCommerce, retail, and pharma. He has a strong track record of aligning analytics strategies with business goals, driving innovation through experimentation, causal reasoning, and cloud-based AI solutions. At Merck, he has played a key role in positioning analytics as a core enabler of digital transformation

Rahat Yasir is Head of Data Insights and Advanced Analytics at the International Air Transport Association (IATA), where he leads global AI initiatives focused on aviation data. An eleven-time Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP) in Artificial Intelligence and named one of Canada’s Top 30 Software Developers Under 30 in 2018, Rahat brings deep expertise in imaging, data analysis, cross-platform technologies, and enterprise system design. He has held key AI roles at organizations including Intact Financial, CAE, Immersive Design Studios, OSEDEA, and ISAAC Instruments, contributing to AI-driven innovations across aviation, defense, healthcare, manufacturing, and transportation.

Rajiv Kolagani is the Chief Data & AI Officer at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, where he leads transformative digital initiatives to advance clinical operations and patient outcomes. With a strong focus on healthcare AI and data analytics, Rajiv’s work has delivered measurable impact through innovation, improving both care delivery and operational efficiency. His leadership continues to shape the future of data-driven healthcare.

Santoshkumar P., Head of Data North America at Unilever, is a seasoned leader in Data, Analytics, and AI with over 15 years of experience across finance, marketing, manufacturing, and consumer goods. He specializes in data engineering, business intelligence, and digital product management, driving impactful, data-driven strategies through cross-functional collaboration. Holding a master’s degree in Digital Marketing and Analytics from St. Edward’s University, Santoshkumar blends deep technical expertise with sharp business acumen to deliver meaningful insights and enterprise value.

Srujana Kaddevarmuth is the AI Leader & Group Director of the Artificial Intelligence Center of Excellence at Walmart Global Tech, where she has led the development and deployment of commercial-grade Generative AI and ML solutions that have driven over $1.3 billion in incremental revenue. Her work spans search, personalization, entity extraction, and conversational recommendation engines, along with Customer 360 and data-democratization initiatives across global e-commerce and retail.

Sunzay Passari, Director – Architecture of Tomorrow (AoT) & AI at UPS, is a visionary leader known for anticipating future challenges and creating transformative solutions before markets recognize the need. With a strong track record of driving nine-figure annual profit growth and leading multi-billion-dollar initiatives, he blends deep technical expertise with business acumen, creativity, and consumer insight. His work spans continents including the US, Europe, APAC, and MEA, breaking organizational and cultural silos to deliver industry-first innovations.

Angelie Oberoi is a recognized healthcare analytics leader with over two decades of clinical, technical, and strategic experience. As Director of Product Analytics at Montefiore Einstein, she leads enterprise efforts to integrate advanced analytics and AI into clinical and operational workflows. Her work has driven improvements in predictive modeling for population health, automated risk stratification, and AI-powered decision support, transforming how care is delivered at scale. Angelie is passionate about data equity, responsible AI, and building teams that turn complex data into meaningful action. 

Aroon Jham, Data Analytics Leader at Thomson Reuters, has led high-impact analytics initiatives that have enhanced forecast accuracy, driven over $20M in sales, and delivered multimillion-dollar operational savings. Known for democratizing insights and maximizing analytics value, he is also the author of Innovating for Profit and founder of RentalInvestment.ai, a platform using AI to support real estate investors. As Co-Executive Sponsor of the AI Champions Network, Aroon champions AI adoption and fosters a culture of innovation and knowledge sharing across the organization.

Chen Picard joined UBS Global Data Management Office 4 years ago.  Chen has performed various roles within UBS – Business Owner of Governed Data Platform, Head of Cloud Data Governance, and currently as Head of Data Management Technical Standards. In the last 25 years She has lead the implementation of technology solutions ranging from Big Data analytical platforms to financial trading systems. She has worked across various industries, from global banking to startups.  

Chirag Agrawal is a data and analytics leader with over 15 years of experience driving AI-led transformation across business operations. He leverages deep expertise in machine learning, data analytics, natural language processing, and emerging technologies to build intelligent systems that enable smarter decision-making and align with strategic goals. Known for his transparent leadership and commitment to ethical AI, Chirag fosters cross-functional collaboration and cultivates a culture of continuous learning. He integrates engineering with corporate strategy to deliver measurable impact, ensuring that technology adoption reflects core organizational values and drives positive social outcomes.

Daniel Morris is the Director of Business Analytics at Proofpoint, where he leads data strategy, AI, and automation to drive revenue growth and operational efficiency. His expertise in data transformation and strategic analytics continues to drive innovation, helping businesses optimize decision-making, improve customer experiences, and accelerate long-term growth.

Divakar (Div) Khanna, Global Head of People Data Strategy and Analytics at Kenvue, brings 20 years of experience harnessing Data Science and AI to drive business transformation. From leading predictive analytics Centers of Excellence to implementing enterprise-scale data solutions and quality frameworks, Divakar has shaped data-driven strategies at Fortune 500 companies including UnitedHealth Group, Progressive, and Medtronic.

Elizabeth Barayuga, Director of Data Science and Machine Learning at UPS, is a seasoned data leader with over two decades of experience in SQL and nearly 10 years in Big Data and ML. She has spearheaded the implementation of enterprise-scale machine learning algorithms that have enhanced decision-making and optimized user experiences across UPS. Proficient in PySpark, Scala, Python, R, and cloud platforms like Azure and Databricks, Elizabeth is recognized for her strategic vision and ability to turn complex data into measurable business outcomes through collaborative, forward-thinking leadership.

Ganapathy Parthasarathy is Chief Architect at Synopsys Inc., where he leads R&D for deployment infrastructure behind Synopsys.ai Copilot, the company’s generative AI assistant for chip design. With a PhD in Computer Engineering, Ganapathy brings deep technical expertise to the intersection of AI and semiconductors. He has authored over 20 publications and holds six patents in machine learning and formal verification, making significant contributions to advancing automation and intelligence in electronic design automation (EDA).

Gopal Renganathan, Senior Director of Data & Analytics at Anywhere Real Estate Inc., is a strategic leader at the intersection of Data, AI, and Product Strategy. Known for architecting digital solutions that fuel both revenue growth and operational efficiency, Gopal has consistently driven transformation across global teams. His expertise spans agile delivery, cloud technologies, and advanced analytics anchored in a customer-first approach. With a reputation for exceeding stakeholder expectations and delivering measurable impact, Gopal remains a driving force in digital innovation and data-driven business evolution.

James (Tiago) Freire, PhD, serves as SVP and Manager of Analytics & Modeling at Moody’s Ratings, where he is recognized for his pioneering work at the crossroads of quantitative economics, financial modeling, and data science. Under his leadership, Moody’s has advanced the frontier of credit analytics, leveraging proprietary data and sophisticated modeling frameworks to deliver deeper, more actionable insights. His contributions continue to shape the way financial risk is measured, modeled, and managed.

Jeff Nieman, Senior Director of Data Strategy and Visualization at Best Buy, is a visionary in Data and AI, recognized for aligning data strategies with business objectives to drive innovation and efficiency. With leadership roles at Best Buy, McDonald’s, and Ford, he has delivered initiatives that resulted in multimillion-dollar savings and stronger data governance. A champion of data literacy, Jeff fosters a data-driven culture across teams and also teaches graduate-level AI/ML courses, shaping the future of data leadership.

Jyoti Mishra, Head of Analytics CoE at Kohl’s, is celebrated for her visionary leadership in driving data-led transformation. Known for building high-performing global teams and forging strategic partnerships, she has consistently demonstrated how analytics can unlock growth and reshape business outcomes. With a track record of revitalizing analytics functions, Jyoti turns data into actionable insights that fuel measurable success across the enterprise.

Manish Nigam, Senior Director – AI at Ameriprise Financial Services, is a strategic AI leader with over 19 years of experience driving innovation in financial services. With an MBA from MIT Sloan, he brings deep expertise in Generative AI, traditional ML, and full-cycle AI deployments. Manish has built and led global data science teams, shaped enterprise AI strategy, and bridged the gap between technical execution and C-suite engagement advancing responsible AI and business impact across asset management, insurance, and banking.

Rachel Belino, HR Data Officer at Mars, leads People and Enterprise Analytics with a focus on building robust data foundations that drive HR transformation. With a talent for navigating ambiguity and crafting user-centric solutions, she brings clarity to complexity and turns visionary ideas into actionable results. Her multicultural background and global perspective enable her to foster inclusive, high-performing teams while delivering impactful, data-driven outcomes.

Dr. Robbie Freeman serves as the Chief Digital Transformation Officer at Mount Sinai Health System, where he leads efforts to embed AI, data analytics, and digital tools into clinical workflows to improve patient outcomes and experiences. With a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Yale, Dr. Freeman brings a unique blend of clinical expertise and technological acumen to address systemic challenges in healthcare, including reducing disparities in care. He is also an Adjunct Assistant Professor at NYU, where he teaches healthcare analytics and mentors future leaders at the intersection of health and technology.

Spriha G. serves as the Senior Director of Data at Ophelia, where she leads with deep expertise in Health and Social Care Data Analytics, Health Information Technology, and Data Strategy. With a history of transforming nascent data teams into scalable, high-impact organizations, Spriha brings both vision and execution to the table. She has built and expanded data products from the ground up, driving widespread adoption through effective stakeholder engagement, strategic advocacy, and targeted communication.

Trey Connolly, Vice President and Group Director of Data & Analysis at Digitas North America, is a highly regarded leader in data analytics with a strong track record of driving measurable impact across the marketing and advertising landscape. At Digitas, he leads analytics for Samsung’s New Computing & Mobile division, blending strategic insight with deep technical expertise. Trey’s career includes leadership roles at Epsilon, TBWA/Chiat/Day, and Beyondsoft, where he helped shape data strategies for major brands like Toyota, Hilton, and W.L. Gore.

Bimal Mehta is a highly accomplished leader with 17+ years of extensive delivery and consulting experience in AI (Artificial Intelligence), ML (Machine Learning) and Quantum Computing solutions within the Financial Services industry. Bimal is well-versed in today’s advancement in AI technology to help the finance industry leaders effectively structure and govern their AI, ML & Analytics solutions. He also recently built an internal product for Vanguard called ‘lineageGPT’ for extracting data lineage and technical metadata from code repositories using GenAI models. 

Chitra is a seasoned technology executive with deep expertise in the financial services industry. In July of 2024, she joined Carlyle as the organization’s inaugural Chief Data and Analytics Officer, tasked with leading a transformative data and analytics strategy and execution to harness data as a strategic asset across the enterprise. Before joining Carlyle, Chitra served as Managing Director and Global Head of Data, Analytics, Performance Reporting, and Architecture at Oaktree Capital Management.

Devendra Singh Parmar, Principal Product Owner – Strategic Transformation Initiatives at Discover, is a seasoned business and technology leader with more than 13 years of international experience delivering large-scale, high-impact transformation programs. With prior leadership roles at HSBC and other major financial institutions, he has successfully driven initiatives exceeding $20 million across risk, compliance, analytics, and digital domains. Devendra holds multiple certifications including PMP, AgilePM, SaFe SP, PSM, and MSP®, underscoring his expertise in program and product management.

Dhivya Nagasubramanian, Vice President of AI Transformation & Innovation at U.S. Bank, is celebrated for her visionary leadership in driving AI-led innovation across the financial sector. At U.S. Bank, she has led the development and deployment of transformative AI solutions that enhance both operational efficiency and customer experience. Her work has been pivotal in advancing the adoption of cutting-edge technologies like Generative AI and Agentic AI within core banking functions.

Dr. Lovedeep S., Chief Analytics Officer at Conner Strong & Buckelew, leads AI and machine learning innovation in the insurance sector through strategic data science leadership. With a Ph.D. in experimental physics and specialized AI training from Harvard, he brings a rare blend of technical depth and business acumen. Lovedeep is known for translating complex data into actionable insights, aligning advanced analytics with business growth, risk mitigation, and product innovation, driving measurable impact across the organization.

Ehrar Jameel is the Head of Data Enablement, Analytics & AI (North America) at TK Elevator, where he leads efforts to harness emerging technologies for operational efficiency and business growth. With a strong background in data and analytics, Ehrar has played a pivotal role in driving digital transformation and business enablement across multiple industries, consistently aligning data strategy with enterprise objectives.

Fernando Schwartz, PhD, Chief AI Officer at Claritev, blends deep technical expertise with sharp business insight to drive AI innovation at scale. A former tenured professor of mathematics and data science, he has led global AI and analytics teams across Fortune 250 companies and high-growth startups. With a proven track record of building high-impact AI teams, he’s focused on delivering value where it matters most.

Gabriele Ricci, Chief Data & Technology Officer at Takeda, is recognized for his exceptional leadership in advancing digital health and AI-driven innovation across the organization. Under his direction, Takeda has accelerated the integration of transformative technologies that have meaningfully improved patient outcomes on a global scale. His strategic vision continues to shape the future of healthcare through data, analytics, and cutting-edge digital platforms.

Madlyn Del Monte, Vice President of Transformation and AI Operations at Paramount, is recognized for her exceptional leadership in driving large-scale global transformation initiatives that have significantly advanced operational excellence, agility, and AI integration across the organization. Her work has delivered measurable business outcomes while fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability.

Nancy Hom is Vice President – Data, Analytics & AI at MetLife, where she leads the global audit department’s analytics and AI efforts, enabling risk-based coverage across the entire business value chain. Serving as the audit partner to the Global Chief Data Analytics Officer, she offers strategic guidance on data management, data science, and AI governance. Previously, as Head of Global Data Analytics for Internal Audit, Nancy developed and deployed over 40 analytics use cases that transformed audit capabilities and deepened enterprise risk insights.

Nikhil CJ, Chief Technology Officer and SVP at Sephora, is a seasoned IT leader with over 20 years of experience in cloud, architecture, infrastructure, and eCommerce platform delivery. He has a strong track record of building and scaling high-performance digital ecosystems that seamlessly integrate development and operations. Nikhil’s leadership has been instrumental in driving Sephora’s digital innovation, enhancing customer experiences, and delivering business value through robust, scalable technology solutions.

Nisheeth Chaudhary, Vice President of Emerging Technologies and AI Governance at State Street, is being recognized for his exemplary leadership in advancing responsible AI practices. He has played a pivotal role in developing and implementing enterprise-wide AI governance frameworks, ensuring ethical, transparent, and compliant AI adoption across global operations. His work is helping shape a future where emerging technologies drive innovation while upholding trust and accountability.

Pratik Agrawal, Sr. Director of Data Science & AI Innovation at ResMed, is a visionary leader advancing healthcare through transformative AI solutions. He leads efforts that improve the lives of millions with sleep and respiratory conditions, and previously developed groundbreaking AI technologies for diabetes care, including the world’s first AI-based Diabetes Assistant. With over 30 patents and a track record of building high-performing AI teams, Pratik is recognized for delivering impactful, scalable innovations that elevate both clinical outcomes and patient experience.

Rahul Modak, AVP at LPL Financial, is a seasoned Cloud and AI/ML expert known for designing high-performance, cost-effective solutions across AWS, Azure, and GCP. An AWS and Cloudera certified professional, he specializes in serverless cloud architectures that enable scalable innovation and business agility.

Ranjit Nethi, Director – AI, Digital Customer Experience at Eaton, is a seasoned digital and AI leader with over 20 years of experience across insurance, retail, and tech sectors, including roles at IBM and Walmart. At Eaton, he drives B2B innovation and customer-centric transformation using Generative AI, cloud, and composable architectures. A Kellogg EMBA graduate, Ranjit combines strategic insight with hands-on execution and actively mentors startups while promoting tech-led education and sustainability in India.

Sandeep Earayil, Head of Alternative Data, AI & Research Tech at RBC Capital Markets, is driving next-gen transformation in capital markets through responsible generative AI. He has led the development of platforms powered by foundational models, vector databases, and RAG pipelines streamlining investment workflows and enhancing insight accuracy. Previously at Credit Suisse, he launched ML-driven algo-trading and ESG strategies, and built a leading alternative-data practice. A former MLDS 40 Under 40 honoree, Sandeep is also an active angel investor and advisor with deep expertise in NLP, generative AI, and quantitative modeling.

Shekar Ramanathan, Executive Director of Digital Transformation at Atlantic Health System, is a seasoned digital health leader with two decades of experience in health IT, data, and AI. He is widely recognized for translating innovative concepts into impactful solutions that improve patient care and clinician workflows. A frequent national speaker, Shekar focuses on applying AI and emerging technologies to transform healthcare delivery. His work has earned accolades from Becker’s Healthcare and NJBIZ, underscoring his influential role in advancing digital health and IT.

Suman Giri, PhD, Vice President and Head of Data Science and AI at Pfizer, is a seasoned leader with over a decade of experience advancing innovation at the intersection of data and design. Holding a Ph.D. in Advanced Infrastructure Systems from Carnegie Mellon University, he combines academic rigor with practical impact. His career spans healthcare and tech, where he has led the development of data-driven strategies and machine learning solutions that enhance decision-making and business outcomes.

Vinod Nair, Vice President of Data Platform Engineering & Architecture at Comcast, is a senior data executive passionate about transforming how organizations leverage data and AI to drive platform innovation, operational efficiency, and business growth. He leads the strategy and execution of modern, scalable data and AI platforms with a strong focus on trust, quality, compliance, and performance. Committed to both organizational success and team empowerment, Vinod is driven by a mission to help businesses grow while enabling others to thrive.

Wei Manfredi, VP of Global Architecture, Data and Generative AI at McDonald’s, is a global tech leader with over 25 years of experience driving digital transformation at scale for brands like Google, Visa, and lululemon. She’s known for building data and AI platforms that power intelligent, sustainable business outcomes and for aligning bold C-suite vision with engineering execution. At McDonald’s, she leads the charge in modernizing architecture and deploying decision intelligence systems that push boundaries and deliver impact.

Dara Meath is the Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at Build-A-Bear Workshop, where she is recognized for her outstanding leadership in digital transformation and technology innovation. With a strong focus on applying AI-driven solutions to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency, Dara has been instrumental in shaping the company’s digital future. Beyond her technical achievements, she is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion, actively supporting initiatives like Women Leaders in Data & AI.

Dave is a Data Management, Analytics and AI executive, specializing in large scale enterprise transformation programs where data, analytics and AI feature prominently in business value creation and competitive advantage. He has both corporate executive and Big 4 consulting experience. During his career, Dave has pioneered a business value driven approach to the application of data, analytics and AI. At Thomson Reuters, Dave embedded predictive analytics, recommendation engines and Gen AI in day-to-day business operations yielding annual business benefits of $100M+ per year.

Deepak Konale serves as the Chief Data and Analytics Officer at Northern Trust Wealth Management, where he is recognized for his pioneering work in AI-powered personalized financial advice, an innovation that earned a U.S. patent and significantly enhanced client engagement at scale. Deepak has led enterprise-wide data transformations leveraging platforms such as Azure and Databricks, and built foundational capabilities including Client 360 and Performance Management. He also established a Global Center of Excellence, enabling both business and regulatory teams to make smarter, data-driven decisions.

Erica M. Howard, SVP and Head of Risk & Regulatory Data, Monitoring, & Analytics at TD, is being celebrated for her exceptional leadership in advancing strategic data initiatives that strengthen regulatory compliance, risk management, and customer experience. With deep expertise in analytics and process optimization, Erica has consistently delivered impactful, data-driven solutions that enhance operational efficiency and drive measurable outcomes across the financial services industry.

Gaia Bellone, Chief Data and AI Officer for Emerging Markets at Prudential Financial, is a dynamic leader with deep expertise in designing and executing data and AI strategies across global markets. Known for driving transformative initiatives that enhance customer experience and business performance, she brings a strong background in building scalable AI infrastructure and governance. Gaia is passionate about bridging applied research with real-world impact and is a vocal advocate for diversity, inclusion, and ethical innovation in emerging technologies.

Iván Herrero Bartolomé, Chief Data Officer at Grupo Intercorp, is a digital innovation leader with a background in Telecommunications Engineering and over a decade of experience in digital transformation, eCommerce, analytics, and product development across finance, telecom, and retail. After founding a successful startup later acquired by Deloitte Colombia, Iván continued to drive impact through strategic leadership roles. He combines deep technical expertise with a human-centered management style, shaped by executive education at INALDE Business School.

Linda Powell, Deputy Chief Data Officer at BNY Mellon, plays a pivotal role in shaping the firm’s enterprise data ecosystem. With deep expertise in data governance, strategy, and regulatory compliance, she leads initiatives that drive innovation and enhance data-driven decision-making across the organization. Her career reflects a strong commitment to optimizing business operations through data, and her strategic leadership continues to strengthen BNY Mellon’s position in leveraging data as a core asset in the financial sector.

Meenal Iyer, Vice President of Data at SurveyMonkey, is a seasoned Data and AI executive with over 24 years of experience driving transformation across SaaS, retail, fintech, and travel industries. She specializes in data strategy, AI innovation, and analytics-led growth, with a focus on intelligent automation and data monetization. Beyond her corporate role, Meenal actively advises startups and venture capital firms on building modern data platforms and product-led growth strategies, while also mentoring emerging STEM leaders and engaging with executive networks across Northern California.

Michael serves as the Chief Data Officer at Domino’s Pizza Enterprises, where he built a global analytics Center of Excellence that spanned across 12 APAC and EU markets. He was previously SVP of Analytics & Data Sciences at US Foods and VP of Data Science at Starbucks, where he led enterprise-wide analytics and advanced AI initiatives. A former U.S. Army medical logistics officer, Michael holds an MBA and a Master’s in Engineering Systems from MIT, as well as a B.S. in Operations Research from the U.S. Military Academy.

Michelle Foley, Senior Vice President and Enterprise Data Manager at Truist, is a results-driven technology and program leader recognized for solving complex challenges through inclusive collaboration and business-aligned engineering. Known for her customer advocacy and growth mindset, Michelle has led transformative initiatives, from overseeing a $1.9 million federal investigation following the SolarWinds hack to delivering multi-million-dollar savings through data-driven innovation and operational excellence.

Nikki Madsen Davis, Senior Vice President and Business Data Officer at Tokio Marine HCC, is a dynamic leader in finance, data, and technology with an MBA and a proven track record of delivering global strategic initiatives and cost-saving projects. With deep expertise in finance, IT strategy, program management, and M&A integration, she excels at translating vision into execution. Known for her collaborative leadership style, Nikki has successfully led ERP and eCommerce implementations and consistently drives business transformation through data and technology.

Pravesh Rijal is the Chief Data and AI Officer at Cross River Bank, one of New York’s most forward-thinking financial institutions. He began his career at Citigroup in quantitative modeling and went on to found and scale Cross River’s Quantitative Strategies unit. With a Master’s in Financial Engineering from NYU and a PhD in progress at EDHEC Business School in France, Pravesh is widely recognized for his ability to merge deep technical expertise with practical execution.

Shuchi Agrawal brings over 20 years of leadership in data governance and technology, consistently driving innovation through cloud integration, business automation, and data-informed decision-making. Currently leading Data Provisioning and Governance at Citi, she has spearheaded strategic initiatives that streamline operations and empower teams with the insights needed to make smarter, faster decisions.

Vishal Anand, Vice President of Data Science & AI at Mastercard’s AI Center of Excellence, has led the design and deployment of high-performance MLOps and LLMOps infrastructures both on-premises and in the cloud, enabling global teams to deliver scalable, market-facing AI solutions. Under his leadership, Mastercard has modernized legacy systems, advanced its cloud transformation, and built resilient data-flow and streaming platforms that process billions of daily events with stringent SLAs.