Meet our 2025 Speakers
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Aaron Alphonso
Sydney Opera House
Amy Shi-Nash
Tabcorp
Ash Nair
iCare NSW
Brian Kozan
Cal Mayhook
Vocus
Donna Forlin
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Eloy Gonzales
Murrumbidgee Irrigation
Fernando Mourão
Seek
Gaby Carney
University of Technology Sydney
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Gemma Kyle
Rest
Iain Hart
Crown Resorts
Karla Taboada
Infrastructure NSW
Lee Hickin
The National AI Centre
Olga Lysenko
Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water
Richa Lalit
Transport for NSW
Richard Sanchez
Nine
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Rohan Samaraweera
Department of Home Affairs
Susan Gibson
University of Technology Sydney
TBC
TBC
Speaking at
7 August, 08:50
Opening Remarks from the Chair
7 August, 14:50
Aligning agentic & customer-facing AI with risk-based governance frameworks
Rohan Samaraweera
Senior Director - Data ScienceDepartment of Home Affairs
Rohan Samaraweera leads the Data Science branch at the Department Of Home Affairs where he works to mature, modernise and broaden Department artificial intelligence, machine learning and data science capabilities. Under his leadership the branch has evolved into an agile and adaptive team leveraging the unique data, expertise, and intersecting missions within the Department to create public good. The branch continues to expand its analytics capabilities and services to support a broader range of portfolio areas, domestic and international partners.
Prior to joining Home Affairs, Rohan had a career as a Signals Intelligence Officer with the Australian Signals Directorate, operating in the nexus between data, technology and intelligence tradecraft in support of military and counter-terrorism operations.
Speaking at
7 August, 09:00
Creating an effective AI governance framework
Lee Hickin
Executive DirectorThe National AI Centre
Lee Hickin is the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Microsoft Australia and New Zealand (ANZ), responsible for driving Microsoft's technical strategy and innovation across the region. With over 20 years of experience in the technology industry, Lee is a seasoned leader and strategist who has a deep understanding of how technology can help businesses transform and grow.
Prior to joining Microsoft, Lee held various senior leadership positions in technology companies, including serving as the Chief Technology Officer for both SaaS-based and managed services businesses. Lee is passionate about empowering individuals and organizations to achieve more through technology, and has been a champion for digital transformation across various sectors.
At Microsoft ANZ, Lee is responsible for driving Microsoft's technical vision and strategy, and leading a team of experts who are focused on delivering innovative solutions that help businesses and individuals achieve more. Lee is a frequent speaker at industry events and is regularly featured in the media sharing his insights on the latest technology trends.
Lee holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science and Mathematics from the University of Auckland, and a Master of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of Otago. When he's not busy exploring the latest technology advancements, Lee enjoys spending time with his family, hiking, and practicing photography.
Speaking at
7 August, 09:20
Panel discussion: How can organisations embed a strong but flexible AI governance framework that balances risk with innovation?
Donna Forlin
AI Governance Expertnbn
Speaking at
7 August, 09:20
Panel discussion: How can organisations embed a strong but flexible AI governance framework that balances risk with innovation?
Cal Mayhook
Head of AI & Automation InnovationVocus
Cal Mayhook is the Head of AI & Automation Innovation at Vocus, a leading B2B telecommunications company. With expertise in AI, automation, product management, and strategic technology implementation, Cal leads a cross-functional team to drive business transformation through innovative AI solutions.
Speaking at
7 August, 09:20
Panel discussion: How can organisations embed a strong but flexible AI governance framework that balances risk with innovation?
Gaby Carney
Senior Fellow - Strategic AI – UTS Human Technology InstituteUniversity of Technology Sydney
Gaby Carney is a Senior Fellow at the UTS Human Technology Institute where she advises on AI governance. She has published a range of guidance on AI regulation and governance, and has advised organisations on their governance frameworks. She is currently leading HTI’s work on an Australian Government funded project to support small to medium enterprises to adopt AI safely and responsibly. Prior to HTI, Gaby was a Partner at international management consulting firm, Partners in Performance, a senior executive in the NSW Government, and a commercial lawyer.
Speaking at
7 August, 09:20
Panel discussion: How can organisations embed a strong but flexible AI governance framework that balances risk with innovation?
Fernando Mourão
Head of Responsible AISeek
Fernando is a Responsible AI (RAI) Leader with over a decade of experience in Data Science, Machine Learning and Recommender Systems. As a former Computer Science professor and Data Scientist, he has made extensive contributions to both industry and academia. Passionate about the intersection of ethics, business, and innovation, Fernando is dedicated to operationalising RAI and enhancing AI governance in the industry. He focuses on bridging the gap between AI strategy, governance and execution, promoting safe, sustainable, and responsible use of technology.
Speaking at
7 August, 11:50
Identifying, assessing, and mitigating organisational threats through AI governance
Olga Lysenko
DirectorDepartment of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water
Speaking at
7 August, 13:20
Panel discussion: How can organisations strengthen governance to mitigate legal and reputational risks?
Gemma Kyle
Chief Risk OfficerRest
Gemma was appointed as Chief Risk Officer in November 2018 and leads the Enterprise Risk function which includes investment risk, operational risk, business continuity, financial crime, compliance and conduct.
Gemma has over 25 years’ experience in risk management and governance across multiple industries including government, engineering and financial services. She is known for her ability to drive organisational change and achieve business objectives in complex and dynamic environments.
Prior to joining Rest, Gemma held senior positions at MLC Life Insurance, MLC Wealth, Parsons Brinkerhoff and Federal Treasury.
She is a Director on the Board of the Fund Executives Association Limited.
Gemma holds a Master of Arts from the Australian National University and a Bachelor of Economics, Social Science (First Class Honours) from the University of Sydney.
Speaking at
7 August, 13:20
Panel discussion: How can organisations strengthen governance to mitigate legal and reputational risks?
Iain Hart
Head of Risk ManagementCrown Resorts
Iain Hart has extensive work experience in various companies and roles related to risk management, compliance, cyber security, and technology operations. Iain has held leadership positions in organizations such as Crown Resorts, the Australian Institute of Company Directors, ANZ, Macquarie Group, Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Fairfax Digital, and Telstra BigPond. Throughout their career, they have been responsible for implementing technology risk management strategies, advising stakeholders on risk mitigation, and ensuring compliance with industry standards such as ISO27001.
Iain Hart completed a Bachelor of Science degree at Macquarie University from 1990 to 1992. Iain then pursued an Associate Diploma in Financial Markets at the Securities Institute of Australia from 1991 to 1994. Later, they attended the MIT Sloan School of Management from 2007 to 2009, where they earned a degree in IT Governance and Leadership, specializing in Corporate Leadership.
Speaking at
7 August, 13:20
Panel discussion: How can organisations strengthen governance to mitigate legal and reputational risks?
Aaron Alphonso
Chief Technology OfficerSydney Opera House
Aaron Alphonso is a senior technology executive with extensive experience driving digital transformation and innovation in the media, entertainment, and cultural sectors. As Chief Technology Officer at the Sydney Opera House, he leads strategic initiatives to modernise digital infrastructure, enhance audience engagement, and optimise technology operations for one of the world’s most iconic cultural institutions.
Previously, Aaron held leadership roles at SBS and Macquarie Media Limited, where he advanced broadcast technology, media operations, and cross-platform content delivery. With expertise in IT governance, emerging media technologies, and business strategy, he is passionate about leveraging technology to drive creative excellence and operational efficiency.
Speaking at
7 August, 13:20
Panel discussion: How can organisations strengthen governance to mitigate legal and reputational risks?
Eloy Gonzales
Data Science ManagerMurrumbidgee Irrigation
Seasoned IT professional with global experience across private and government sectors in three continents. Specializes in Data Science, leading projects in Predictive Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, and Machine Learning on big data platforms. Demonstrated excellence in ICT Research/Development with a notable contribution of approximately 30 international publications and 4 patents. Proven track record as a System Engineer and Support Engineer, showcasing robust skills in software development and deployment. Recognized for strategic thinking, innovative leadership in technology, and an adept ability to mentor and coach teams towards achieving business goals.
Qualifications:
o Doctor of Engineering from Waseda University, Japan.
o Specialist in Data Science, Machine Learning, Big Data Analytics, Data Engineering.
o International consultant, advisor and implementer of AI solutions.
Speaking at
7 August, 14:20
AI incident response: preparing for AI failures, compliance breaches, and crisis management
Richard Sanchez
Senior Data Governance ManagerNine
Richard Sanchez leads the group data & AI governance and privacy function as the Senior Manager Data Governance at Nine Entertainment Co. With extensive expertise in data, product management, cyber risk and privacy, he has successfully implemented robust governance, privacy, and risk frameworks across diverse industries, including higher education, retail, consumer goods, and media. His practical approach, honed in large, complex, and multi-jurisdictional organisations, provides him with a unique perspective on the challenges and pragmatism required in operationalising and embedding frameworks. He is a strong advocate for a people-centric strategy, believing that human collaboration and understanding are fundamental to achieving success.
Speaking at
7 August, 15:50
Building resilient AI data governance frameworks
Karla Taboada
Associate Director - Data & AIInfrastructure NSW
Karla Taboada is a renowned AI and data leader in the ANZ region, celebrated for her pioneering work in AI strategy, governance, and literacy. Her career spans continents and cultures, reflecting a journey of adventure and exploration. From Bolivia to Japan, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia, Karla has accumulated a wealth of global experience.
Notably, Karla has served as a Research Engineer at the United Nations in Japan and completed a Post Doctorate in New Brunswick, Canada. She was also a Principal Data Science lecturer at the University Mayor de San Andres in Bolivia. Most recently, she led data-driven decision-making advancements as the Head of Data Science at Auckland Transport. Currently, Karla is the Associate Director of Data and AI at Infrastructure NSW, Australia.
She is also the founder of Domitila Technologies, a company dedicated to helping organizations navigate AI complexities through bespoke strategies that align with business goals. Domitila's governance framework ensures the ethical, secure, and effective use of AI, safeguarding data and compliance.
Speaking at
7 August, 16:20
Leveraging proprietary data through AI: navigating compliance, security & bias challenges
Susan Gibson
Head of Data Analytics & AIUniversity of Technology Sydney
Susan is a transformational leader who has over 20 years of experience developing and executing digital, data and analytics, and AI strategies. She ensures her team continue to be at the forefront of technology whilst ensuring strategic alignment, revenue generation and operational efficiency gains. Recently she has been responsible for leading the implementation of both predictive and generative AI within the operations of the university. This involved establishing responsible AI practices, fostering AI fluency and overseeing the technological, data and organisational changes necessary to ensure successful adoption.
Speaking at
7 August, 16:50
Panel discussion: The future of AI data governance – How can organisations move from compliance to strategic advantage?
Amy Shi-Nash
Chief Analytics and Data OfficerTabcorp
Recognised as a global leader in data-driven innovation, Amy has a unique mix of leadership skills, commercial acumen, scientific depth, and industry know-how. Amy is currently the Chief Analytics and Data Officer at TabCorp, leading its data analytics strategy and execution, empowering business transformation and customer obsession. Prior to this Amy held various leadership positions, including Chief Data Scientist at NAB, Global Head of Analytics and Data Science at HSBC, General Manager of Group Data Science at CBA, and the Founding member and Chief Data Scientist at DataSpark, Singtel’s pioneering data monetization spin-off. Amy has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate for her leadership and contributions in the field of data science and named as one of the global top 100 innovators in data and analytics in 2021 and 2022. Amy has a Ph.D. in Data Mining, an MBA and GAICD.
Speaking at
7 August, 16:50
Panel discussion: The future of AI data governance – How can organisations move from compliance to strategic advantage?
Ash Nair
General Manager - Data Analytics, Automation and AIiCare NSW
Senior executive with experience in leading information technology, data and Artificial intelligence driven organisational transformation, achieving revenue growth, improving customer experience, and realising cost efficiencies.
Influence Boards and Executive leadership teams to build data-led organisations leveraging technology, data and Artificial Intelligence to define and execute corporate strategy.
Known as a trusted adviser, building partnerships across the delivery value chain.
Significant data and technology knowledge with commercial acumen and industry expertise.
Manage complex technology and data environments, drive technology, data and cloud transformation, building enterprise-wide data and analytical capabilities, setting up data and analytics practices, executing growth, building digital, data and AI products, and formulating go-to-market strategy.
Speaking at
7 August, 16:50
Panel discussion: The future of AI data governance – How can organisations move from compliance to strategic advantage?
Richa Lalit
Data and AI Strategy and Governance Manager - OTSITransport for NSW
Richa is a data leader with focus on governance, data strategy and digital transformation and automation. She has worked globally across multiple industry sectors and executed a number of significant transformation programs for some of the world's largest organisations. Richa has consistently delivered outcomes with strong leadership and clear vision.
Digital Transformation programs implemented includes:
Data Governance, Data Management, Advanced Data Analytics, Data Quality, Business Intelligence, Automation and Machine Learning, Regulation and Compliance such as APRA, Planning Analytics solution for FP&A
She is a Gold Medallist and Awarded Outstanding Performance Award 4 times.
Speaking at
7 August, 16:50
Panel discussion: The future of AI data governance – How can organisations move from compliance to strategic advantage?
Brian Kozan
SCRYPTID ConsultingSpeaking at
6 August, 09:00
Masterclass A: AI governance & risk management – A practical toolkit
