The Future of IT & Cybersecurity

CIO & CISO Think Tank

April 24, 2025 - Atlanta, GA

Visionaries

Sulabh Sood Lumen Technologies
Sulabh Sood

VP, IT

Lumen Technologies

Think Tank Speaker

Sulabh Sood is currently working as Vice President at Lumen Technologies. He has been tasked to build the execution engine for global technology, IT, engineering, and product organizations. He is leading an organization to manage and direct Program Management, Business Operations, Program governance & prioritization, Budget management, IT Operations, IT Compliance, IT Vendor Management, Strategic outsourcing, and Agile Transformation Office. Before joining Lumen, Sulabh worked in global companies such as GE, Atos and in pre-IPO startups. Sulabh is an accomplished technology leader with diverse experience in digital transformation, cloud implementation, DevOps, GTM strategy, operations, and product & program management. He has led org-wide transformation by partnering with functions such as engineering, product management, customer success, commercial, marketing, finance, and HR. Sulabh firmly believes in establishing a culture of trust, customer obsession, learning, excellence, and holistic people development through inclusion. Sulabh started his career as a Software Engineer after completing Engineering in Computer Science. He gained valuable leadership experience while working with startup CEOs and VCs during his education at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in New Delhi. He is also an alumnus of GE leadership programs. Sulabh has performed leadership advisory to the C-suite including the board of directors and has been a speaker at multiple leadership conferences. As a contribution back to his alma mater, he serves as Vice President for PAN IIT Alumni USA, Atlanta chapter.

Ashok Narayan Florida's Natural
Ashok Narayan

VP, Information Systems

Florida's Natural

Think Tank Speaker

Founded in 1959 Tosca provides reusable packaging and supply chain solutions across markets including poultry, protein, eggs, produce, and cheese. The company is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.

Jamil Mneimneh (1) Home Depot
Jamil Mneimneh

Distinguished Engineer

Home Depot

Think Tank Speaker

Throughout my career I have been asked to maintain a customer focus, thinking about problems from the end user perspective and recreating them in a lab environment, or proactively crafting scenarios to demonstrate failure points to our internal development groups. In both scenarios, the customer focus is of primary importance, both internal and external. As technology continually changes, so do the technical aspects of my position, requiring a constant evolution of my skillset. As such, I have spent time not only learning the tools of the performance trade, but maintained knowledge on a variety host platforms, operating systems, networking, and database systems. I am a highly motivated, highly skilled “go getter” and I pride myself on being able to identify and drive resolution of problems encountered. I've spent my early career doing just that in various technical support roles, which in the end culminated in my present role in systems architecture. A common thread running throughout my work history and ethic is a willingness and enthusiasm to teach and guide others, in all of roles.

April 24, 2025

Agenda

All times Eastern Time

8:30 AM-9:00 AM

Registration


9:00 AM-9:30 AM

Morning Networking


9:30 AM-9:40 AM

Opening Remarks


9:40 AM-10:05 AM
Keynote

2025 Nexus: Mastering the Art of Business-Technology Harmony

Bridging the gap between business and technology is not easy and requires discipline and balance between technology, people, and business. For so many organizations today, technology is the business. Technology needs to be understood as a critical enabler in every part of the organization from the front line to the back office. It creates new value by crunching data to deliver new insights, it spurs innovation, and it disrupts traditional business models.

For business and technology leaders alike, new actions and behavioral changes can help their organizations make this shift. CIOs and CISOs must take responsibility for problems, they should convey that when technology fails, many people typically share responsibility.


10:10 AM-10:45 AM
Fireside Chat

Fortifying Cyber Security Together: A CISO's Call to Increase Cyber Transparency

In the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, the imperative to increase transparency takes center stage, driven by new laws and regulations mandating prompt reporting of cyber breaches. A notable example is the SEC's cyber disclosure rule, necessitating companies to report incidents within 72 hours. This shift from voluntary to mandatory information-sharing not only presents challenges but also opportunities. Compliance empowers organizations to construct more comprehensive defenses and actions against cyber risks. Regulatory guardrails provide confidence, allowing companies to explore, experiment, and compete securely. To stay ahead, a tech-enabled approach embedding cybersecurity across the enterprise is crucial. Looking forward, collaboration with the C-suite, particularly the Chief Risk Officer and General Counsel, is vital. Crafting a consistent narrative, setting priorities, and adapting to new cyber risk management practices become essential. Moreover, understanding board expectations, simplifying complex cyber regulations, and extending cybersecurity measures to external reporting teams are key considerations for navigating the regulatory landscape effectively.


10:45 AM-11:05 AM

Coffee Break


11:05 AM-11:50 AM
Panel

Building Cyber Fortitude: CISO Strategies for Resilient Cybersecurity

In the realm of building cyber resilience, organizations confront increased risk exposure amidst bold moves and evolving external challenges. Despite investments in technology and data, risk leaders, including CISOs, express difficulty in keeping pace with the persistent threat of cyber crises. However, in today's business landscape, discussions of digital transformation or reinvention are inseparable from considerations of cybersecurity. Looking ahead, stakeholders, from the board to frontline cybersecurity operations, pose critical questions about resiliency. This includes inquiries about the adequacy of efforts to safeguard the company and its customers in the face of cyber attacks. The focus shifts to identifying opportunities to minimize the impact on business and shareholder value through effective threat response. Embracing cybersecurity as a whole-of-business endeavor, organizations are urged to align themselves with business owners, adapting to changes in the cyber landscape and fortifying resilience against disruptions. Building confidence in the cybersecurity program becomes paramount in navigating the dynamic and challenging cyber landscape effectively.


11:55 AM-12:10 PM
Disruptor

Data Revolution Leadership: CIOs at the Helm of Modernization for Strategic Value

This session explores the pivotal role of CIOs in modernizing data to unlock its full value. In the contemporary digital landscape, data stands as a strategic asset, and CIOs are at the forefront of harnessing its potential. The abstract emphasizes the CIO's responsibility in implementing cutting-edge technologies and data management strategies that go beyond mere storage, enabling organizations to derive actionable insights. By adopting innovative approaches, such as advanced analytics, artificial intelligence, and cloud solutions, CIOs can transform data into a valuable resource, driving efficiency, innovation, and informed decision-making across the enterprise. The discussion delves into the evolving responsibilities of CIOs in leading the charge towards data modernization, ensuring organizations remain competitive and agile in an increasingly data-centric world.


12:15 PM-12:30 PM
Vision Voices

Elevating Agility: The Strategic Imperative for CIOs in Prioritizing Cloud Engineering

In this session, we delve into the imperative for CIOs to prioritize cloud engineering in the contemporary digital landscape. As organizations increasingly rely on cloud computing for operational efficiency and innovation, CIOs play a central role in shaping robust strategies. The session emphasizes the strategic importance of cloud engineering in optimizing infrastructure, ensuring scalability, and fostering agile application development. Attendees will explore practical approaches to resource management, automation, and aligning cloud initiatives with overarching business goals. The discussion navigates the evolving realm of cloud technologies, highlighting how CIOs can strategically prioritize cloud engineering to drive competitiveness and resilience in the dynamic digital ecosystem.


12:30 PM-1:30 PM

Lunch & Networking


1:30 PM-1:45 PM
Disruptor

Navigating the Cyber Frontier: CISO Strategies for Effective Risk Management

In the context of effective cyber risk management, the challenge lies in keeping up with evolving technology, particularly during cloud or technology transformations. The adoption of threat intelligence,GenAI, the metaverse, and machine learning presents both opportunities and challenges, with a need for technology leaders to grasp the security implications. While these technologies enhance cyber risk management, they also offer efficiencies through task automation. Striking a balance between risks and rewards is crucial for gaining trust and staying competitive. Looking forward, organizations must explore innovative approaches to cyber risk management, emphasizing resilience against third-party risks. Collaboration with the leadership team is essential to take an enterprise-wide view of current and future threats, develop action plans, safeguard critical assets, and facilitate quick recovery. Early collaboration with the executive team is encouraged to integrate risk management into transformation strategies and extract maximum benefits from emerging technologies.


1:50 PM-2:35 PM
Panel

Next-Level Innovations: Unveiling GenAI - The Hype, The Reality, and The Future

We will explore the evolution of Generative AI, from its inception to its transformative impact across various industries. Experts will discuss the disparity between the media-driven hype and the technology's real-world capabilities, sharing case studies and addressing current challenges. The conversation will also cover the economic and ethical implications of Gen AI, providing insights into its future advancements and regulatory landscape. Attendees will gain a nuanced understanding of Gen AI's potential and the strategic considerations necessary for its successful integration into diverse sectors.


2:15 PM-2:50 PM
Fireside Chat

Innovation Unleashed: Navigating the Future through IT Evolution with CIOs at the Helm

In this session, embark on a transformative exploration of the evolving landscape of IT operations. Delving into the strategic imperative for Chief Information Officers to reshape and modernize their IT operating models, the discussion unfolds the critical role technology plays in driving business success. Participants will gain practical insights into the adaptive strategies CIOs can employ to enhance organizational agility, foster innovation, and align IT with overarching business goals. Join us for a dynamic conversation that unveils the power of evolving IT operating models, empowering organizations to thrive in the ever-evolving digital age.


2:35 PM-2:50 PM
Disruptor

Revolutionizing Tomorrow: A Deep Dive into Innovation through Emerging Technologies

In this strategic session designed for Chief Information Officers (CIOs), we delve into the transformative realm of "Innovate through Emerging Tech." As technology stewards, CIOs play a pivotal role in navigating the rapidly evolving landscape of emerging technologies—such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things. The session provides CIOs with actionable insights into leveraging these technologies to drive innovation within their organizations. Attendees will explore practical strategies for implementation, addressing potential challenges, and ensuring ethical considerations in adopting these disruptive technologies. Join us to empower your role as a technology leader and discover how CIOs can strategically leverage emerging tech to propel their organizations into the forefront of innovation.


2:40 PM-3:15 PM
Fireside Chat

Unlocking the Power of Diversity in Cybersecurity: Strengthening Defenses, Driving Innovation

In today's rapidly evolving cyber threat landscape, diversity is not just a buzzword – it's a strategic imperative. This panel will explore the critical role that diversity plays in enhancing cybersecurity efforts, from bolstering defenses against sophisticated attacks to fostering innovation and resilience within organizations. Our esteemed panelists will share insights, experiences, and best practices for cultivating diverse teams, leveraging varied perspectives, and building inclusive cultures that empower cybersecurity professionals of all backgrounds to thrive. Join us as we delve into the transformative potential of diversity in shaping the future of cybersecurity.


3:15 PM-3:35 PM

Networking Break


3:15 PM-3:35 PM

Networking Break


3:35 PM-3:50 PM
Disruptor

Cybersecurity Leadership in the Era of AI and ML: Navigating Innovation and Responsibility

In the dynamic realm of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), CISOs play a pivotal role in leveraging these advancements for enhanced cybersecurity. Strategic integration of AI and ML is essential for bolstering security measures, optimizing decision-making, and driving innovation. CISOs must adopt a comprehensive approach, considering the entire lifecycle of these technologies to ensure both efficiency and ethical use. Establishing robust governance frameworks becomes paramount, addressing biases, ensuring transparency, and minimizing unintended consequences.

Looking ahead, as AI and ML continue to advance, CISOs face evolving challenges and regulatory considerations. Proactive engagement involves staying informed about changing regulations, particularly in areas such as data privacy and ethical AI practices. CISOs should strive for a tech-enabled understanding of AI and ML systems, encompassing deployment, impact, and security measures. This approach positions organizations to navigate the regulatory landscape effectively, ensuring responsible and competitive integration of AI and ML into cybersecurity strategies.


3:50 PM-4:05 PM
Disruptor

In the Cloud We Trust: Elevating Cybersecurity Leadership Amidst Cloud Advancements

In the era of rapid digital transformation, the surge in cloud adoption has revolutionized business operations, demanding a heightened focus on cloud security. CISOs, as guardians of organizational cybersecurity, are at the forefront of navigating this evolution. This session explores the imperative for CISOs to advance cloud security strategies, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of cloud infrastructure, data protection, and regulatory compliance. As organizations increasingly migrate to cloud environments, CISOs play a pivotal role in orchestrating security measures that not only defend against cyber threats but also foster innovation. A proactive approach to cloud security involves staying abreast of evolving technologies, anticipating regulatory shifts, and implementing robust governance frameworks. This abstract delves into the multifaceted responsibilities of CISOs in ensuring the security, resilience, and compliance of cloud-based operations, ultimately shaping a secure and agile future for organizations in the cloud-centric landscape.


3:55 PM-4:40 PM
Panel

Maximizing Business Impact: Measuring and Achieving ROI with AI Across Industries

This panel will explore how AI innovations can be effectively implemented and scaled across different industries to drive tangible, measurable ROI. Experts from diverse sectors, including healthcare, manufacturing, customer experience, and business strategy, will share practical insights on how AI solutions are transforming operations, reducing costs, improving decision-making, and enhancing customer satisfaction. Attendees will learn how to set clear KPIs, track AI’s financial impact, and overcome challenges in scaling AI across the enterprise. From automating processes to enhancing productivity, this session will highlight how to ensure AI investments deliver measurable returns at every stage of the journey.


4:40 PM-4:45 PM

Closing Remarks & Raffle Giveaway


4:45 PM-5:30 PM

Cocktail Networking


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