Nithya Nareshkumar

Co-Chief Executive Officer, DataBahn

Nithya Nareshkumar is a dynamic and accomplished leader with a distinguished career spanning over 15 years in the financial services industry. As the Co-Chief Executive Officer at DataBahn, a cutting-edge tech startup, she brings a wealth of experience and expertise that drives the company’s strategic growth and operational excellence.

Before joining DataBahn, Nithya held pivotal roles at renowned financial institutions, including DTCC and J.P. Morgan. Her tenure at these industry giants saw her lead critical divisions such as Equity Clearing, Core Settlement, and Market Risk Technology. Her visionary leadership and innovative thinking transformed these functions, optimizing processes, and elevating performance to unprecedented levels.

Nithya’s exceptional track record of spearheading transformative projects and fostering cross-functional collaboration has set her apart as a trailblazer in the industry. Her ability to navigate complex challenges and seize opportunities has consistently yielded remarkable results, positioning her as a trusted expert in her field.

Beyond her role at DataBahn, Nithya Nareshkumar extends her influence as a board member at Sessions Guardians. This commitment to governance underscores her dedication to broader industry advancement and her passion for cultivating the next generation of leaders.

Nithya holds a deep understanding of the intricate interplay between technology, finance, and leadership. Her strategic vision, combined with her hands-on operational approach, continues to shape DataBahn’s success story and inspire those around her.

With a proven history of driving innovation, optimizing performance, and leading with integrity, Nithya Nareshkumar is a true embodiment of effective leadership in the technology and financial sectors. Her journey exemplifies a relentless pursuit of excellence and an unwavering commitment to shaping the future of the industry.

Yash Jagdale

Distinguished Data Engineer

Yash Jagdale is a Distinguished Data Engineer, leading the charge in Engineering data management. With an unwavering enthusiasm for data and a robust background spanning software engineering, continuous integration and deployment (CI/CD), DevOps practices, and quality assurance (QA), Yash brings a wealth of expertise to the forefront of innovation.

Dedicated to pioneering solutions that streamline data management processes and propel business success, Yash possesses a deep-seated passion for simplifying complexities. His commitment to delivering customer-centric products and services that exceed expectations underscores his dedication to excellence.

Throughout his illustrious career, Yash has consistently demonstrated his ability to foster high-performing teams. His leadership style, rooted in collaboration, mentorship, and continuous learning, empowers individuals to unlock their full potential and drive collective success.

As a Distinguished Data Engineer, Yash Jagdale epitomizes innovation, technical prowess, and leadership excellence.

Dina Kamal

Field CTO/Canada GM

Dina Kamal brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the realm of leadership, grounded in her distinguished tenure as a Partner at Deloitte. Renowned for her pioneering efforts in driving technological innovation and excellence, Dina has carved a path of remarkable achievements throughout her career.

At Deloitte, Dina’s impact was profound and far-reaching. She established herself as a visionary leader in Financial Services, with a keen focus on AI, ESG Technology, and Tech Transformations. Her unwavering passion for innovation propelled her to the forefront of cultivating a culture of forward-thinking within Deloitte Canada, igniting a wave of accelerated growth in products and technology assets.

Under Dina’s guidance, Deloitte Canada’s AI products and Data Science teams flourished, delivering cutting-edge AI and advanced analytics solutions that set industry benchmarks. Her leadership prowess shone brightly as she led high-impact teams to achieve unprecedented success, demonstrating an unparalleled dedication to excellence.

Dina’s influence extended beyond innovation as she played a pivotal role in founding the Data Office at Deloitte Canada. Her ability to spearhead strategic initiatives from inception to fruition showcased her exceptional talent for building and managing projects of strategic significance, further solidifying her reputation as a trailblazer in the field.

Recognized globally for her expertise in developing, selling, and implementing leading-edge cybersecurity solutions, including Cyber AI, Dina has left an indelible mark on the global tech landscape. Her visionary approach, coupled with her unwavering commitment to excellence, has positioned her as a key figure in shaping the future of technology.

Dina Kamal’s leadership journey is a testament to her relentless pursuit of innovation, excellence, and transformative change. With her visionary leadership, she continues to shape the future of technology, leaving an indelible legacy wherever she goes.

James Beeson

Cyber Advisors, LLC

With more than 34 years of experience in cybersecurity and technology covering retail, manufacturing, financial services, and healthcare, James Beeson currently serves as an Executive Cyber Advisor and Consultant, providing cybersecurity strategic and operational advice for Board of Directors and Executive Leadership teams. James is actively engaged with venture and private equity partners to help recommend investment strategies in cybersecurity and advise start-ups regarding messaging and commercial engagement. In addition to mentoring and coaching executives on cybersecurity and leadership capabilities, James currently serves on Advisory Boards for Stripes, Capgemini, Security Scorecard, and Checkmarx to help strategically guide the direction of roadmap development.

Having recently retired as senior vice president and Global Chief Information Officer at The Cigna Group (NYSE CI), James was responsible for leading all aspects of cybersecurity, information security, and technology systems protection to safeguard critical infrastructure, intellectual property, and sensitive data for the company for the past seven years.

An award-winning CISO, in February of 2024 James won an ORBIE award as Dallas CISO of the year in the super global category. He was also inducted into the CSO (Chief Security Officer) Hall of Fame in September 2022 for his excellence in information risk management and security, just weeks before being featured in the Wall Street Journal on the changing roles of CISOs and CIOs. He was previously recognized as a Top 100 CISO’s by CISO Connect in 2021, an Evanta 2016 Breakaway Leadership Award finalist, and a 2011 T.E.N. ISE North America Executive Award finalist.

With his strong ability to cultivate relationships, simplify complex problems, constructively coach talent, and  apply a future-oriented, strategic mindset, James actively works with peers across the global cybersecurity  community to drive improvements in collaboration, education, awareness, standards development, and  information sharing. James has also assisted several cybersecurity start-up companies, including Verdasys  Digital Guardian, Riptech and Securonix, to advance their product roadmap and grow market share.

In addition, James has co-chaired the CISO Executive Summits in Dallas and New York, takes part in the RSA  Conference, including the Executive Security Action Forum (ESAF) discussions, collaborates with SINET  (Security Innovation Network), and participates as a keynote speaker at various events across the globe.

Prior to joining The Cigna Group, James spent 20 years serving in various CISO and other leadership roles at  General Electric, becoming seasoned in cybersecurity, infrastructure, governance and risk management.

James has an MBA from Southern Methodist University – with a focus in finance – and a BBA in Management  and Leadership from Amberton University. He is a Certified Information Systems Security Professional  (CISSP), Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC), and Six Sigma Quality certified.

Mandy Andress

CISO, Elastic

Mandy Andress is the Chief Information Security Officer at Elastic, a search company that builds self-managed and SaaS offerings for search, logging, security, and analytics use cases.

She is an experienced CISO and a leader in information risk and compliance. Prior to Elastic, she was the Information Security Officer at MassMutual, responsible for enterprise information risk and security, strategic investment of contemporary security capabilities, and managed the company’s global Cyber Intelligence Unit. Previously, she held security leadership positions at TiVo, Evant, and Privada, and worked as a security consultant at Ernst & Young and Deloitte.

In addition, she was an adjunct professor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst where she taught a graduate level course on risk management. She is a published author, with her book Surviving Security having two editions and used at multiple universities around the world as the textbook for foundational information security courses.

Mandy holds a Bachelor in Business Administration in Accounting from Texas A&M University, a Juris Doctor degree from Western New England University, and a Master’s in Management Information Systems from Texas A&M University. She is a certified CISSP, CPA, and member of the Texas Bar.

Praful Ilamkar

Head of Engineering, DataBahn

Praful Ilamkar is a seasoned technology leader with a remarkable track record in engineering leadership and innovation. With over a decade of experience in the tech industry, Praful currently serves as the Head of Engineering at DataBahn where his journey to this role has been defined by his exceptional leadership skills, strategic mindset, and technical prowess. 

 Praful’s foundational experience was cultivated during his tenure at Securonix, where he spent a decade shaping the future of security information and event management (SIEM) solutions. As the Director of Engineering, he was instrumental in delivering next-generation SIEM on the cloud, a testament to his ability to navigate complex technical landscapes and deliver impactful solutions. His results-oriented and analytical approach consistently drove operational excellence, fostering a culture of innovation and efficiency within his teams. 

 Known for his adeptness in initiating and executing high-value projects, Praful has a proven record of taking initiatives from concept to fruition. His knack for identifying opportunities to enhance processes and systems has been a driving force behind his success. Notably, his expertise extends to designing and architecting cloud-based solutions, showcasing his forward-thinking mindset and adaptability to emerging technologies. 

 One of Praful’s distinguishing qualities is his commitment to a customer-centric approach. He played a pivotal role in delivering security analytics products that not only met technical benchmarks but also aligned seamlessly with client needs. His ability to forge strong relationships with stakeholders, clients, and industry peers has solidified his reputation as a collaborative and influential leader. 

Beyond technical proficiency, Praful’s leadership style shines through in his mentorship of cross-functional teams. He understands the significance of fostering talent and creating an environment where innovation and growth thrive. His strategic guidance and unwavering support have empowered his teams to excel and deliver their best work consistently. 

As the Head of Engineering at DataBahn, Praful Ilamkar continues to drive the company’s technical vision forward. His dynamic blend of leadership acumen, technical expertise, and a customer-first mentality positions him as a true visionary in the technology space. Praful’s journey is a testament to his ability to lead, innovate, and make a lasting impact on the organizations he serves.

Mihir M. Nair

Head of Field Engineering and Architecture

Mihir M. Nair is an accomplished technology leader with a distinguished career spanning over a decade. As the Head of Field Engineering and Architecture at DataBahn, Mihir brings a wealth of experience in cloud services and fields & solutions engineering to the forefront of innovation.

Mihir’s professional journey is anchored by a decade-long tenure at Securonix, a pioneering player in the tech industry. With a strong foundation in Cloud Service and Fields & Solutions Engineering, Mihir consistently demonstrated a remarkable ability to lead and manage large teams, especially during periods of hyper-growth. His experience encompasses an impressive array of roles, including Presales, Solution Architecture, Product Management, DevOps, Cloud/Infrastructure Management, Project Management, Business Analysis, Change/Release Management, and Strategic Planning.

A visionary executive, Mihir played a pivotal role in transforming business operations at Securonix. His expertise was instrumental in successfully transitioning business-critical applications from traditional on-premises models to cutting-edge cloud solutions. Notably, he spearheaded the migration from an appliance-based on-premises approach to a robust and scalable SaaS model, driving agility and efficiency across the enterprise.

Mihir’s exceptional skills in deploying and delivering security solutions proved invaluable to numerous Fortune 500 clients. His strategic insights and technical acumen facilitated the identification of advanced cyber threats and insider risks in real-time, providing critical protection in an evolving digital landscape. His proficiency extended to designing and architecting intricate data processing solutions capable of handling high-velocity, high-volume, and high-variety streaming data with utmost precision.

Mihir M. Nair’s leadership legacy is marked by his relentless pursuit of innovation, his ability to navigate complex technological landscapes, and his commitment to driving organizational success. With a track record of envisioning and implementing transformative initiatives, he continues to be a driving force in shaping the future of technology at DataBahn and beyond.

Aditya Tirumalai Sundararam

Head of Product, DataBahn

Aditya Tirumalai Sundararam is an accomplished product leader with an exceptional track record of driving vision, strategy, and excellence in the tech startup landscape. As the Head of Product at DataBahn, Aditya brings over a decade of invaluable experience to the table, making him a driving force in shaping the future of the company.

Aditya’s journey through the tech world began with a remarkable 10-year tenure at Securonix, a prominent player in Cyber Threat Analytics. During his time there, he harnessed his value-driven approach to product management, consistently dissecting complex ideation issues and transforming them into innovative solutions. His knack for prioritizing use cases allowed him to craft products from the ground up, earning him a reputation as a true innovator in the security domain.

One of Aditya’s most notable strengths lies in his ability to lead and manage cross-functional teams with finesse. His exceptional leadership aptitude has been a driving force behind his success, enabling him to oversee global teams dedicated to developing and productizing SIEM and Security analytics content. This commitment to innovation has empowered organizations with the tools they need to detect and respond to the latest security threats effectively.

Aditya’s expertise extends beyond traditional leadership roles. His strategic vision and product excellence have propelled him to the forefront of the security product landscape, where he has driven adoption and value creation in various security products. His influence is evident in his role at DataBahn, where he continues to shape the company’s trajectory by aligning products with market demands and customer needs.

In his current position as Head of Product at DataBahn, Aditya Tirumalai Sundararam is not only a seasoned professional but also an inspirational leader who sets new standards for innovation and excellence. His ability to dissect complexity, prioritize effectively, and lead diverse teams has not only yielded high-quality products but also has left an indelible mark on the industry as a whole. As technology continues to evolve, Aditya remains at the forefront, a driving force in the pursuit of product-driven success.

Nanda Santhana

Chief Executive Officer, DataBahn

Nanda Santhana is a seasoned leader and cybersecurity visionary at the helm of DataBahn, a cutting-edge tech startup. With over a decade of unwavering commitment to information security, Nanda has established himself as a driving force in architecting robust security solutions tailored for large enterprises.

Before assuming the role of CEO at DataBahn, Nanda honed his expertise at Securonix, a prominent name in the cybersecurity domain. During his tenure there, he spearheaded the implementation of groundbreaking cybersecurity solutions, leaving an indelible mark on the organization’s security landscape.

Nanda’s proficiency extends beyond technology implementation; he possesses a unique ability to foresee and mitigate emerging cyber threats, ensuring that DataBahn remains at the forefront of innovation and security resilience. His strategic insights and deep industry knowledge empower DataBahn to offer state-of-the-art solutions that safeguard businesses in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

In addition to his role at DataBahn, Nanda Santhana is a valued board member at Sessions Guardians, a position that underscores his commitment to advancing cybersecurity not only within his own company but across the broader industry as well. His collaborative and forward-thinking approach continues to influence the strategic direction of Sessions Guardians, contributing to a safer digital realm for all.

Nanda’s leadership philosophy is rooted in a holistic understanding of cybersecurity challenges and a resolute dedication to finding solutions that empower organizations to thrive securely. Under his guidance, DataBahn is set to revolutionize the cybersecurity landscape, offering not just products, but peace of mind in a digitally interconnected world.

Rob Palatnick

Former MD & Chief Technology Architect, DTCC

Rob Palatnick was a Managing Director and Global Head of Technology Research and Innovation at DTCC, where he had responsibility for driving technology innovation at the firm and led a number of key technology initiatives, including cloud, automation, machine learning, big data analytics, and distributed ledger technologies. He was also responsible for collaboration with clients, regulators, fintech vendors, and academia to research and advance technology innovations across the financial services industry.

Prior to this role, Rob served for over a decade as Chief Technology Architect, overseeing the firm’s global IT strategy, architecture, standards, and engineering design of the systems and applications that supported the firm’s broad range of products and services. During his career at DTCC, Rob also served as an Application Development Domain Lead, Chief Administrative Officer of IT, and CIO of FICC. Prior to joining DTCC, Mr. Palatnick was Vice President, Development and Systems, at Security Pacific Corporation Sequor Software Services.

An active technology voice in the industry, Rob has been a featured guest speaker at key conferences worldwide, has authored numerous white papers for DTCC and is often quoted in the press. He is a founding member of the Linux Foundation’s Hyperledger Project, a collaborative effort to establish, build and sustain an open, distributed ledger platform across industries, and served as chairman of the governing board for 3 years.

Robert N. Rose

Former Advisory Council Member, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Former Advisory Board Member, NSA

Bob Rose is an internationally recognized cybersecurity expert providing the U.S. government and companies strategic counseling and governance on a full array of cyber-related issues at the nexus of technology, national security, law enforcement and privacy. Bob previously served in various appointed U.S. government advisory positions in the areas of national security, cyber and homeland security. He was a member of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Advisory Council, the National Security Agency’s Cyber Awareness and Response Panel, the National Counterterrorism Center Advisory Board and the Department of States International Security Advisory Board. Current corporate and non-profit advisory service includes The Chertoff Group, 1Kosmos, Securonix, Clarivate, the McCrary Institute for Cyber & Critical Infrastructure Security at Auburn University, the Homeland Security Experts Group Steering Committee and the State of Florida Center for Cybersecurity.

Chris Inglis

Former U.S. National Cyber Director; Advisor to the President of the United States, Joe Biden, on Cybersecurity

Chris Inglis served as the first Senate-confirmed U.S. National Cyber Director and Advisor to the President of the United States Joe Biden on cybersecurity. He previously worked as a U.S. Naval Academy Looker Distinguished Visiting Professor for Cyber Studies, as a managing director at Paladin Capital, a member of the boards of several public and private corporations, and as a Commissioner on the U.S. Cyberspace Solarium Commission.  He retired from the Department of Defense in January 2014 after 41 years of federal service, including 28 years at the National Security Agency and seven and a half years as its Deputy Director.  He served as a member of the Department of Defense Science Board and as a National Intelligence University trustee until early 2021.

A 1976 graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, Inglis holds advanced degrees in engineering and computer science from Columbia University, Johns Hopkins University, and the George Washington University. Inglis’ military career includes 30 years of service in the US Air Force and Air National Guard — from which he retired as a command pilot at the rank of Brigadier General.  He and his wife Anna have three grown children and reside in Annapolis, MD.

Patrick Gorman

Former Executive Vice President, Booz Allen Hamilton

Patrick Gorman serves as Executive Vice President at Booz Allen Hamilton. With 25 years of experience, Gorman has worked in multiple capacities in security, strategy, defense and intelligence practice areas. He recently served as the Chief Security Officer (CSO) for Bridgewater Associates and from 2011 to 2013, Gorman was the Senior Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer for Bank of America/Merrill Lynch, where he had oversight of security policy, technology and operations. He honed his expertise at Booz Allen Hamilton as Senior Executive Advisor of Cybersecurity where he was responsible for strategic planning, business development, capability development, marketing and capture management for the firm’s cyber portfolio. His rich background stems from holding the position as Asst. Director of National Intelligence and Chief Information Officer for the U.S. Intelligence Community and over ten years in the USAF as part of The National Security Agency/Central Security Service (NSA/CSS).