Current Speakers

Andrew Byrd advises the NATO Military Committee on cybersecurity and defensive cyberspace policy and operations. Andrew brings multiple decades of experience across NATO, U.S. military, and interagency cyber domains as a driving force in the evolution of intelligence-led cyber defense. He was recognized for his leadership excellence during NATO’s Crisis Response Exercise and the European Defense Agency’s Cyber Phalanx Exercise.
As CTO for the U.S. Army Operations Center at the Pentagon, he initiated the implementation of Zero Trust and is part of the NATO Zero Trust writing team, contributing to the development of the NATO Zero Trust Implementation Plan.
As the former Chief of Operations at U.S. Army Cyber Command, he directed the planning and execution of advanced threat-hunting missions, enterprise cybersecurity, and policies that support national and allied defense objectives. A passionate advocate for intelligence-led cyber defense and civil-military collaboration, he addresses emerging geopolitical and technological threats. By blending deep operational expertise with a forward-looking view of the threat landscape, Andrew brings a mission-first perspective to topics such as AI-powered adversaries, supply chain compromise, and the evolving role of identity in digital warfare. He has also authored multiple NATO and U.S. cyberspace defense publications, including sections of the NATO Cyberspace Operational Concept and the U.S. Army’s Defensive Cyber Operations Concept. As a leader in enterprise risk management, Andrew has developed and operationalized cyber risk methodologies that align defensive investments with mission priorities and regulatory frameworks. He has championed the integration of adversary threat modeling, risk quantification (FAIR-based), and cyber wargaming to inform executive decision-making. His approach emphasizes resilience at every layer—from identity and access to supply chain assurance and policy enforcement.
Andrew holds an MBA and a Master’s in Cybersecurity from Baylor University and several certifications, including Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Certified Network Defense Architect (CNDA), Security+, Network+, A+, and ITIL.

I’m a Managing Director and Global Risk Executive with 25+ years of experience uniting compliance and business objectives across fintech, investment advisory, clearance & settlement, and banking. I’ve led multi-million-dollar transformations—some exceeding $90M—while seamlessly integrating IT, Operations, and Risk under cost-effective, future-proof frameworks. Whether it’s implementing front-to-back trading platforms, orchestrating RCSA programs, or remediating MRA/MRIA actions, I deliver solutions that satisfy regulators (OCC, FRB, NYDFS) and position organizations for sustainable growth.

Known as the “James Bond” of mission-critical projects, I excel at parachuting into high-stakes initiatives to deliver on time and on budget, leveraging AI, data analytics, and automation. My track record includes leading Securities lending and custody platform rollouts, stress-testing infrastructures, and capital plan submissions under tight deadlines. By distilling complex technical and regulatory challenges into actionable roadmaps, I ensure boards, regulators, and stakeholders remain aligned at every step.

A hallmark of my leadership is building and motivating global teams. From hiring and mentoring top talent to handling workforce changes, I instill front-to-back ownership and accountability. I’m never afraid to roll up my sleeves—bridging siloed control groups, collaborating with international regulators, and spearheading large-scale transformations. My credentials include an MBA, PMP, Six Sigma Black Belt, SAFE, CISA, CISM, CRISC, CGEIT and other Certifications—reinforcing my commitment to operational excellence and process optimization.

Beyond day-to-day execution, I’m a bestselling co-author of Pivotal Leadership and an executive coach. My passion lies in turning red-zone risks into strategic wins—be it for securities lending, data strategy, or multi-entity expansions. Along the way, I’ve successfully managed global initiatives, resolved multiple crisis’, and earned distinctions like the BNY Mellon Star Award and International Achievers Award for my global impact and exemplary leadership.

As a Solution Engineer at Cloudflare, I leverage my extensive experience and expertise in cloud security, cloud computing, and network security to enable and support our partners and customers across the EMEA region. I have been in this role for over two years, and I am passionate about delivering innovative and effective solutions that protect our clients from sophisticated cyber threats and enhance their security posture.

With over 15 years of experience in the IT security industry, I have a proven track record of leading and collaborating with diverse teams, penetrating new markets, expanding territories, driving revenue and profitability, and developing long-term relationships. I have worked with a variety of verticals, such as enterprise, financial services, healthcare, media, retail, public sector, and federal, and I have a deep understanding of their unique business needs and challenges. I am also well versed in leveraging technology to solve complex problems and create value for our stakeholders.

Franco Lavicka is a seasoned Enterprise Account Manager with over 15 years of experience in cybersecurity, helping large enterprises strengthen their security posture.
With a deep understanding of application security trends, threat vectors and best practices, Franco has successfully driven large projects during the 2013 and 2018 wave of DDoS attacks in the Netherlands, ensuring businesses stay ahead of evolving cyber threats.
Currently, Franco is Enterprise Account Manager at Thales Cyber Security Products, a leading European technology vendor. In this role, he is responsible for managing application security customers across the Benelux, advising CISOs and security teams in best-in-class DDoS, WAF and API Security products. By leveraging his expertise in consultative selling and customer advocacy.
Prior to his current position, Franco held enterprise sales roles at Akamai, Palantir and Cisco, where he played a key role as strategic partner for customers and developing long-term customer relationships. His ability to translate complex cybersecurity challenges into business-driven solutions has made him a trusted advisor among customers and partners.
Franco has an MBA from Rotterdam School of Management and a master’s degree in information technology from a well-established university in Austria. Passionate about cybersecurity innovation, he actively participates in industry conferences and CISO roundtables.
When he’s not helping organizations secure their digital assets, Franco enjoys trojan workout, creating music, being a hockey referee and spending time with his family at sports activities.

Peter van Eijk is an independent Cloud, Cyber Security and Digital Infrastructures instructor, with more than 40 years of industry experience.

Instructor and co-developer of CCZT (Certificate of Competence in Zero Trust), a certificate by the Cloud Security Alliance.

Developer or contributor to many courses, including CCSK, CCZT, CCAK, CCSP, and more.

Why: Digital transformation is about cloud adoption and will make your organisation more agile and efficient. It takes a team effort across multiple roles in your organisation to pull it off. Get your team on the same page with these training programs. They are highly interactive, allowing the participants to work with their own situation, worries, concerns and opportunities. And they are fun too.

Delivered more than 150 Cloud Security (CCSK, CCZT, CCSP and more) courses, and numerous other cloud courses and workshops, in-company, classroom and online, in many countries.

Communication between people, working together, can create truly outstanding information technology value for companies.

Started as a software development engineer and worked my way up to a leadership position in product management. Expert in fraud prevention and cyber security. Holder of several patents for innovative security products. Proven experience in people management, product management, new product development, vision & strategy. Now enjoy solving complicated cyber puzzles related to product security

Experience in IT industry with a focus on Information Security, in-depth experience of entire gamut of security portfolio including Identity and Access Management, Network Security, Web application products, Enterprise security and integration with infrastructure products. Product agnostic implementation experience and exposure to security and infrastructure management products. Wide and large scale security deployment exposure in IT Enabled Service, Telecommunication, Finance, Insurance, Government and large multinational software sectors.

Jason Goode is a veteran of the identity and access management industry. Jason has spent the last 25 years exclusively in the fields of enterprise software and cloud native solutions. Articulating the business benefits which identity and access management solutions and services can bring has helped C-level executives and line of business owners understand how technology can deliver business value based on their needs.

Leader with 18+ years of experiences within Retail-, Corporate Banking, Corporate Strategy and as Board member of a subsidiairy. Proven experience in leading large (cross-functional) business / IT teams. Skilled in designing and execution complex strategic (digital) transformations across the bank in NL and NW Europe.

Ivo van Nimwegen is the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Siemens, where he leads the company’s cybersecurity strategy, risk management, and digital resilience initiatives. With extensive experience in information security, IT governance, and compliance, Ivo plays a critical role in safeguarding Siemens’ global infrastructure against emerging cyber threats.

Throughout his career, Ivo has worked on implementing Zero Trust architectures, strengthening identity & access management (IAM), and enhancing cybersecurity frameworks in complex, multinational environments. He is known for his expertise in risk-based security approaches, incident response, and aligning cybersecurity with business objectives.

At Siemens, Ivo collaborates closely with executive leadership and cross-functional teams to drive cybersecurity innovation, regulatory compliance, and operational security excellence. His insights into AI-driven security, data protection, and cloud security strategies make him a highly regarded thought leader in the field.

Michel Daher is the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at BBE, where he leads the organization’s cybersecurity strategy, risk management, and data protection initiatives. With extensive experience in cyber resilience, threat intelligence, and IT governance, Michel plays a critical role in strengthening BBE’s security posture against evolving cyber threats.

He has a strong track record in developing and implementing Zero Trust frameworks, regulatory compliance strategies, and incident response protocols. His expertise spans across various aspects of information security, including identity & access management, cloud security, and AI-driven risk mitigation.

As a recognized cybersecurity leader, Michel is passionate about driving secure digital transformation and fostering a security-first culture within organizations.

A visionary in enterprise IT and digital transformation, Richard van der Meer serves as the Region Vice President & CIO at Nissan, overseeing technology strategy and innovation across Africa, the Middle East, India, Europe, and Oceania. With a career spanning decades in IT leadership, cybersecurity, and operational excellence, Richard has been at the forefront of driving next-gen digital solutions that enhance business resilience and future-proof global operations.

Richard’s expertise lies in bridging the gap between business and technology, ensuring that IT is not just a support function but a strategic driver of growth and competitive advantage. Under his leadership, Nissan has successfully integrated AI-driven analytics, cloud computing, and Zero Trust security frameworks, enabling seamless digital transformation across diverse and dynamic markets.

A strong advocate for cyber resilience and IT governance, Richard is passionate about leveraging emerging technologies to mitigate risks, enhance cybersecurity postures, and create agile digital ecosystems.

Max Killinger is a seasoned executive IT leader with extensive international experience in IT strategy, governance, and digital transformation. As CIO & Vice President Corporate IT at Hoffmann Group, he drives innovation, IT compliance, and security, ensuring seamless technology operations across the organization.

With a strong background in IT infrastructure, datacenter operations, and end-user services, Max specializes in developing digital business models, implementing transformation strategies, and fortifying IT security frameworks. His expertise in IT governance and compliance enables businesses to navigate complex regulatory landscapes while optimizing operational efficiency.

A visionary in the field, Max is passionate about leveraging cutting-edge technologies to enhance business resilience and drive growth in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

Anna is a seasoned cybersecurity and data security leader at Philips, with extensive expertise in designing and implementing robust security frameworks. Anna plays a key role in architectural oversight, strategic planning, and budget prioritization, ensuring that Philips remains at the forefront of cybersecurity innovation.

Leading a team of security professionals, she is responsible for delivering internal security services, overseeing the design and implementation of new security capabilities, and driving the organization’s long-term security roadmap. Her work focuses on enhancing data security resilience, integrating cutting-edge security solutions, and aligning security strategies with business objectives.

With a deep understanding of risk management, governance, and security architecture, Anna continues to shape the cybersecurity landscape at Philips, ensuring a secure and future-ready digital environment.

With over two decades in information security, my role as Chief Information Security Officer at OKQ8 is complemented by my expertise in cyber defense at Försvarsmakten. My competencies extend to agile methodologies and software project management, ensuring strategic oversight and robust security infrastructure. At OKQ8, our mission to protect corporate assets aligns with my goal to innovate and strengthen cybersecurity measures. My certification as a CISA underscores my commitment to excellence in this dynamic field.

Emma R. Verhagen is the Global IT Director at Unilever, overseeing the company’s entire tech portfolio and demand funnel across 500+ projects. She plays a critical role in shaping Unilever’s long-term IT strategy, ensuring the delivery health, efficiency, and quality of tech programs while managing an annual budget exceeding $200 million.

Recognized as one of the Top 5 Best Young Professionals in the Netherlands (2017), Emma has led large-scale digital transformation initiatives across industries including consumer goods, consulting, manufacturing, telecommunications, and high-tech. With expertise in AI, data analytics, portfolio management, and innovation, she holds multiple certifications in AI, Agile, Scrum, ITIL, and Java.

Beyond Unilever, Emma is the Founder and CIO/CTO of FlinderFly IT, a mobile app development company specializing in mental health technology for the GGZ sector. Passionate about leveraging technology for innovation and impact, she continues to drive advancements in IT strategy and digital transformation on a global scale.

André Luis Antunes is a seasoned risk and security leader with extensive experience in IT governance, cybersecurity, and data protection. As the Internal Audit Director – Data, IT & Cybersecurity at Carrefour, he plays a critical role in ensuring the integrity, compliance, and resilience of the company’s digital ecosystem.

With a strong background in risk management, internal controls, and cybersecurity frameworks, André specializes in assessing and strengthening IT security strategies, ensuring compliance with global regulations, and mitigating cyber threats in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. His expertise spans cloud security, identity & access management, incident response, and IT audit best practices.

Iva Tasheva is the co-founder and cybersecurity lead at CYEN, am award-winning consultancy established in Brussels in 2018. Cyen is recognised for providing pragmatic, business success-oriented cybersecurity risk and compliance solutions that are strongly tailored to its client’s needs. Cyen specialises in the financial, manufacturing, public and digital sectors.

In addition to her work for CYEN, Iva is an appointed Member of the EU Cybersecurity Agency (ENISA) Ad-Hoc Working Groups on Enterprise Security and on Cloud Security (Certification) and a Board Member of Women4Cyber Belgium.

Her expertise is recognised, being shortlisted BeNeLux Outstanding Security Professional Award (OSPA) 2024, Belgium Cybersecurity Personality of the Year 2022 and listed ‘35 under 35’ by Santander/CODIB. She is a published author, including authoring the Bulgarian Guide for SME Cybersecurity, and a regular speaker. Iva holds an MBA from KULeuven and a Master in Cybersecurity degree from the New Bulgarian University. She is certified ISO 27001 Lead Implementer, ISO 27799 Lead Manager and DORA Senior Lead Manager.

Frank Loose is a seasoned IT Security Architect and Product Owner at ING, bringing extensive expertise in designing and implementing robust security frameworks for large-scale financial institutions. With a deep understanding of cybersecurity, identity & access management, cloud security, and Zero Trust architectures, Frank plays a critical role in safeguarding ING’s digital infrastructure.

As a Product Owner, he drives strategic security initiatives, ensuring seamless integration of security solutions into ING’s technology ecosystem. His focus spans risk management, security automation, and regulatory compliance, helping ING stay ahead of emerging threats in an evolving cybersecurity landscape.

Pekka T. is a Senior Security Business Architect at Telia, specializing in Digital Identity and Trust Services. With extensive experience in telecom, security, and digital trust, he plays a pivotal role in commercializing innovative services such as Telia CA, Authentication, Sign, and Archive.

Passionate about digitalization, identity & access management, privacy, and security, Pekka works closely with customers and partners to deliver high-value trust solutions. His expertise spans enterprise architecture, TOGAF, SAFe, and Six Sigma, ensuring a structured and strategic approach to digital identity services.

At Telia, he collaborates with a highly skilled team, focusing on driving innovation while ensuring seamless pre- and post-sales service delivery to demanding enterprise clients. A firm believer in the power of breaking things fast to innovate smarter, Pekka thrives on exploring cutting-edge technologies to shape the future of secure digital interactions.