Leaders In Tech

Entrepreneurship serves as the heartbeat of innovation, breathing life into transformative ideas that ultimately add value to our lives. Through the visionary leadership of individuals like Mahi Silva, CEO at Triller, entrepreneurship becomes a conduit for change, shaping industries and crafting experiences that resonate deeply. Silva's role at Triller exemplifies this, where innovative technologies converge with entertainment, enhancing how we create, consume, and share content. Entrepreneurial ventures not only introduce novel solutions but also cultivate opportunities, jobs, and economic growth, fostering a cycle of progress that enriches the fabric of society. Silva's leadership embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship, illuminating the profound impact it wields in sculpting a brighter, more interconnected future.

Here’s more about Mahi Silva

Mahi is the Co-founder & CEO at Amplify.ai.

Previously, Mahi was responsible for commercial activities for Opera’s consumer mobile products and services. Before joining Opera, Mahi was co-founder and CEO of AdMarvel, Inc., the global leader in mobile advertising platforms, acquired by Opera in 2010.

Prior to AdMarvel, Mahi co-founded FrengoCorporation, a mobile social media platform. Mahi also spent 10 years at VeriSign, where he was part of the startup management team.

From 2002 to 2006, he served as senior vice president and general manager of Wireless and Digital Content Services at VeriSign, where he built the world’s leading mobile messaging and mobile entertainment business with revenues exceeding $600M per year.

Prior to VeriSign, he served in various technology leadership roles at Taligent, Apple and NCR Corporation.

Pursuing a stable job and embarking on a business venture are two distinct paths that necessitate distinct skill sets and attitudes. While a secure job provides certainty and stability, launching a business requires one to take risks and handle ambiguity. It takes a lot of courage, determination, and resilience to jump into a new venture, especially when it involves leaving the comfort of a stable job. One must be prepared to take calculated risks, be adaptable, and embrace the challenges that come with entrepreneurship. As a result, this course of action is not for the faint of heart, and those who choose to undertake it must be ready for the ups and downs that come with it.

“Wayne Lipkus formed his own computer consulting business, Lipkus & Associates Computer Consultants Inc. in 1988.

He has designed and created numerous computer software programs for several different industries; such as, Field Service, Food Production, Engineering, Financial, R&D and Legal. He created the Network Anti-counterfeiting Tracking and Enforcement (N.A.T.E.) computer system to track information on thousands of suspected and confirmed infringers, the S.A.M.S (Structured Asset Management System) to help engineers out in the field and the GoTrade365 Field Service ERP Software solution.

Wayne credits his success with the wonderful people he has been lucky to have worked with over the years. Individuals from all over globe and in countries like Canada, USA, South America, Latin America, India and Ukraine, have all contributed to his growth both professionally and personally.

Wayne loves the excitement of new ventures and relishes in the creative process.

When not working Wayne loves spending time with his family first and playing hockey and skiing to clear the mind.”

The heart of an effective entrepreneurial leader lies in possessing a combination of essential qualities, including a clear vision, passion, resilience, and empathy. Like Thierry, his journey as a firefighter created his desire to become a leader. Such leaders inspire and motivate their team members to work together towards a common goal. They exhibit resilience to navigate through challenges and adapt to changing circumstances, all while remaining empathetic towards the needs of their team and customers. Overall, the best entrepreneurial leaders set the tone for their organization by creating a positive, innovative culture that fosters growth and success for everyone involved.

Here's more about Thierry Battistini:

“20+ years of experience as business and financial strategist with dynamic record of achievement in design and implementation of sophisticated transformational business management and technology initiatives.

Combines enterprise performance management skills with multicultural sensitivities to facilitate collaboration with international teams on positive, timely, and cost-effective project results.

Currently

Sempre IT – Canada Country Manager

RedwolfAI – CTO and Operations

Previous Jobs & Titles

Julius Baer – Largest Brazilian Multi Family Office - CTO/COO/DPO

GERU (OpenCo) – First Brazilian Online Lending Company (unsecured loans for individuals) – CTO/COO/DPO

Heartman House - M&A and turnaround - Partner

Banco Original – First 100% Digital Brazilian Bank - Strategic Planning and Efficiency – Sr Adviser to the JL Holding

Itaú Unibanco - Credit Collection Core Banking Leader

HSBC - Branches Network Development and Management

Itaú Unibanco – Small to Middle Market Commercial Planning”

Writing custom software is risky and very difficult, especially when managing scope and making clients happy all the time. During Andrew’s ten years of experience, finding the right people has helped his business grow and make his clients happy. Andrew Draper is the CEO and CTO of Tripleview Technologies; they help their customers build thriving local communities that enrich people’s lives​ by supporting the critical community services​ with their innovative technologies.

“Customer-focused entrepreneur with a deep industry and technical knowledge and a history of building value delivering customer-centric innovation by leveraging and developing an organization's technical and people strengths to create vision and its pathway to success.”

At the heart of leadership lies the profound ability to channel innate talents towards enriching the lives of others. A true leader, like John Rathje, Vice President, Information Services, and CIO at Kent State University, embodies this essence. It's not merely about personal prowess or skills, but rather the art of leveraging one's gifts to uplift and empower those around them. Leadership isn't a solitary journey; it's a commitment to nurturing the potential within oneself and harnessing it to positively impact the world. John Rathje exemplifies this by not only excelling in his role but by also embracing the responsibility to inspire and elevate others, epitomizing the core ethos of leadership: the altruistic use of one's talents to bless and elevate others.

Here’s more about John Rathje

Objective, professional and strategic leader. I seek outcomes which improve process, enhance user experience and reduce complexity. Operational excellence is the expectation.

Teams that think creatively and value difference and diversity energize me. I appreciate challenges that invite innovation, collaboration and fresh perspectives.

Prior to joining Kent State, John spent 15 years in informational technology roles in higher education. Most recently he served as the Associate Vice Chancellor and CIO at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR). He also served as the Dean of Technology for Central Michigan University (CMU) College of Medicine and as the Director of Application Development and Support at Central Michigan University. In the private sector, John served as President and CEO of a technology advocacy firm and Co-Founder and President of Diversified Computer Group, Inc.

In the complex and ever-evolving landscape of financial systems, the role of anti-money laundering (AML) stands as a critical safeguard against illicit financial activities. AML measures are designed to detect and prevent money laundering, ensuring the integrity of financial institutions and protecting economies from the adverse effects of criminal enterprises. An instrumental figure in this domain is Malik Arefin, the Director of Application Development - AML Technology at CIBC Capital Markets. Arefin's expertise and leadership play a pivotal role in developing and implementing technological solutions that enhance AML capabilities, contributing to the overall effectiveness of financial institutions in combating financial crime. As we delve into the intricate web of AML, Arefin's role exemplifies the commitment to technological innovation as a key component in the ongoing battle to maintain the integrity of financial systems and protect against illicit financial practices.

In today's digital landscape, cybersecurity stands as the fortification protecting every business establishment from an array of threats lurking in the virtual realm. Safeguarding sensitive data, networks, and systems has become paramount to ensuring operational continuity and maintaining trust among clients and stakeholders. Larry Grossman, the esteemed Vice President of Cybersecurity & IT Services at Tetra Tech, leads the charge in navigating this complex and ever-evolving landscape. With a profound understanding of the intricate web of cyber threats and a proactive approach to defense strategies, Grossman exemplifies the crucial role of cybersecurity in fortifying businesses against potential breaches and ensuring a resilient and secure operational environment.

Here’s more about Larry Grossman

Experienced executive with over 30 years’ success leading IT, ATC automation, cybersecurity and risk management initiatives across federal, aviation and commercial space. Developed and implemented cutting-edge and mission focused information security strategies that employ state-of-the-practice security solutions. Led both technical and compliance security organizations with a focus on balancing operational security and compliance. Initiated cross-government collaboration initiatives and worked extensively with international partners to improve cyber resiliency across the aviation ecosystem.

Ascending to a leadership position isn't merely a climb; it's a rigorous journey that demands unwavering tenacity, unyielding determination, and the invaluable credit of someone who believes in your potential. Dhruv Agnihotri, Vice President - Technology Services Lead at Bank of America, epitomizes this ethos of resilience and belief. The path to leadership requires not just skill and expertise but an unrelenting drive to surmount obstacles and persist despite challenges. It's about forging ahead with an unshakable resolve and having the unwavering support of someone who sees your capabilities and champions your ascent. Dhruv's journey exemplifies the significance of perseverance, determination, and the transformative impact of having someone who trusts and invests in your leadership trajectory.

Here’s more about Dhruv Agnihotri

I value the importance of leveraging modern technology solutions to help streamline core business functions. Having proven technical and leadership experience in both the public and private sectors, I enjoy implementing a global philosophy on bridging the gap between engineering teams and key business stakeholders to achieve common goals. Within the broader technology space, I have an expertise in disciplines of: Microsoft 365 strategy and advisory, Change and Release Management, Identity Access Management, Cloud Infrastructure and Cybersecurity.

Currently serving a team lead at Bank of America, under the Global Technology & Operations division. Our work helps to support, secure, and solidify Bank of America's production application environments, contributing to make BofA one of the Big Four banking institutions of the United States.

In the ever-evolving landscape of the tech industry, the journey to leadership and success is often paved with challenges and uncertainties. Amidst this dynamic environment, the role of persistence emerges as a defining factor. It's the unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries, navigating setbacks, and driving innovation that distinguishes leaders. One such exemplar of perseverance is Reshma S Ombase, Sr. Director of Technology Product & Portfolio Management at Optum. Her journey underscores the pivotal role of persistence in shaping a tech leader's trajectory. Through a relentless pursuit of excellence, resilience in the face of adversity, and an unwavering dedication to fostering technological advancements, Reshma embodies the essence of persistence in steering both personal and organizational success within the tech domain. Her story stands as a testament to the indispensable quality of persistence in navigating the complexities of leadership in the tech industry.

Here’s more about Reshma S Ombase

'm an experienced leader and strategist with a proven track record of successfully managing teams and technology programs that have delivered exceptional results. I currently oversee a technology platform and related integrations for a specialty benefits Dental segment at UnitedHealthcare. I lead a group of talented people, who strive to build best in class solutions that result in operational efficiencies and productivity gains. I also oversee the Dental Network platform data management and analytics solutions that drive provider directory and platform data accuracy.

I'm expert in requirement gathering, system analysis, setting up AGILE development processes, product management, portfolio management, business process engineering, and software development life cycle management. Including system design, development, testing and implementation of software applications. Adept at building business use cases to measure ROI, Productivity Gains, User Satisfaction etc.

I've worn many hats in my career -- programmer, business analyst, system analyst, SME, agile product owner, product manager, portfolio manager, team lead, and business technology platform lead! Which has helped develop my ability to manage a vast and complex business/technology portfolio.

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, the role of a leader transcends mere innovation and technical prowess; it hinges on a steadfast commitment to doing the right thing. In this fast-paced sector, ethical considerations and principled leadership have become paramount. One exemplar of such values is Sepehr Salimi, the Vice President of Technology and Venture Banking at Cambridge Trust Company. With a dedication to not only driving technological advancements but also to ensuring that these advancements serve the greater good, Sepehr embodies the essence of a responsible and visionary tech leader. In an age where innovation is accompanied by moral dilemmas and social implications, individuals like Sepehr Salimi remind us that the path to progress in technology must be paved with unwavering ethics and a strong sense of responsibility.

Here’s more about Sepehr Salimi

Sep is the Innovation Banking portfolio manager with over a decade of experience in banking, ranging from relationship banking to commercial credit, middle market commercial and industrial lending, and portfolio management. Prior to his role at the Innovation Banking Group, Sep managed a $500 million middle market Commercial loan portfolio comprising of renewable energy, non-profit, and professional services. Sep joined Cambridge Trust in 2015 as an analyst, underwriting and analyzing commercial loans across all industries. Sep and his wife reside in Newton and enjoy cooking, hiking, and traveling.

Joined Cambridge Trust in 2015

MBA in Finance, Anna Maria College, 2012 

BS in Business Administration, Anna Maria College, 2011

Mentor, Flare Education

Prior experience includes, Commercial Portfolio Manager, Cambridge Trust; Senior Credit Analyst, Cambridge Trust; Commercial Credit Analyst, Commerce Bank & Trust; Office Manager, Santander; Bank Supervisor, TD Bank.