Steering Committee

Chris Smith is an experienced Information Security leader for the enterprise-wide program at SMU, a top-ranked private university. He specializes in building data-driven security teams and devising enterprise security architecture. With a background spanning CISO and Enterprise
Architecture roles, he holds multiple ISC2 and SANS GIAC certifications, safeguarding people, processes, and data.

Colonel Georgeo Xavier Pulikkathara is a CIO & CISO with 34+ years of leadership in banking, defense, and technology. A US Army Combat Veteran awarded two Bronze Star Medals, he serves as a Colonel, Cyber Operations Officer, supporting 50,000 soldiers. He leverages his background at Microsoft and Dovenmuehle to protect US data security and privacy.

Franklin Tallah is a cybersecurity and resilience leader at Kyndryl, dedicated to strengthening trust and audit readiness for Fortune 500 environments. He specializes in designing and refining security control frameworks, aligning commercial infrastructure with global standards like ISO 27001, NIST, and DORA. His focus is on minimizing audit surprises and reducing risk exposure across global business units.

Gretchen Myers, Principal Director at Accenture, revolutionizes digital security by building resilient foundations for major enterprises. She harnesses organizational leadership to navigate complex cloud, infrastructure, and OT security. Drawing on her background at Chevron, she
delivers innovative solutions that safeguard digital transitions and align with a sustainable future.

Mohamed Elbashir is a cybersecurity leader with 20+ years of experience designing and implementing enterprise security architectures. He is a deep expert in AI/ML Security Governance, Zero Trust, and cloud/infrastructure protection. He has proven success securing
mission-critical systems across financial services, healthcare, and Big 4 consulting while aligning strategies with business and regulatory goals.

Mark Alvarado is the Executive Director of IT Security & IT Compliance (CISO) at Academy Sports + Outdoors, leveraging 20+ years of expertise. A Top 100 Global CISO with degrees in Cyber Law and Cybersecurity, he leads global teams in developing strategies for digital risk,
data privacy, and compliance with GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI-DSS, enhancing operational efficiency.

Angelique Napoleon is a highly experienced, results-driven C-Suite/Technical Cyber Expert across the Oil & Gas, Defense, and Space industries. An Air Force Veteran, she specializes in Anti-Tamper, System Security Engineering, Cyber Forensics & Incident Response, and
Embedded Security. Her expertise spans C4ISR, Advanced Weapons Systems, DevSecOps, and Azure/AWS Cloud Security.

Imran Khan is a battle-tested Information Security Officer with 15+ years of cybersecurity leadership at BNP Paribas, Capgemini, and Deloitte. He specializes in GRC challenges, including SOX and SEC cyber disclosure rules, and AI supply chain security. A recognized speaker and author, he helps organizations turn regulatory headaches into strategic
advantages.

Yury Geluykens is a leader responsible for the overall Security business in the Americas. His mission is to develop and manage the regional business, driving pipeline and revenue growth in line with strategic goals. He leads the regional Security team and is the main point of contact
for nurturing vital relationships with both internal and external security partners.