Chris Zobler

Vice President, Software, Financial Services IBM

Chris joined IBM in 1999 and has held many successful leadership roles including Application Integration Solutions Executive, Ecosystem Development Executive and Data Governance and Big Data Solutions Leader, servicing clients across multiple industries in the Americas. He also held multiple worldwide leadership roles spanning IBM’s Data Warehouse portfolio, Cloud Data Services and Analytics offerings. Most recently, Chris led sales for IBM's Data and AI portfolio across the Americas, which infuses Watson AI and machine learning across a number of business applications; customer care, business intelligence, financial planning and reporting and governance risk and compliance. This role also focused on helping clients implement end-to-end strategies to unlock the value of their data including hybrid data management solutions, data fabric, data security, data governance, MLOps, and implementing trustworthy AI solutions, including IBM’s latest announcement, Watsonx. Currently, Chris is responsible for IBM's entire software portfolio within the Financial Services Sector which includes Data and AI, Automation, Application Modernization, FinOps, Security, and Sustainability solutions. He received his Bachelor of Science in Business Management, with a dual concentration in Management Information Systems and E-commerce from Babson College, in Wellesley, Massachusetts. Chris currently lives in Pleasantville, New York with his wife Marissa, 6-year-old son Jaxon, 3 year old daughter Riley and their dog Bella. Outside of work, Chris loves to play tennis and competes in multiple USTA tennis leagues across Westchester, NY.

Day 2: Regulatory and Workforce Trends Impacting Data Today and Tomorrow

9:10 AM Chairperson Remarks

9:25 AM Panel Discussion| Evolving Model & Data Governance in the Age of AI

The rapid advancement of AI technologies is transforming the landscape of model and data governance in financial institutions. As AI systems become more sophisticated and integral to operations, data managers face new challenges in ensuring compliance, transparency, and ethical use of these technologies. The evolving nature of AI necessitates a proactive approach to governance frameworks that can adapt to emerging risks and regulatory requirements. Join us as we explore the key considerations for evolving model and data governance in the age of AI for financial institutions and learn how:

Implement AI-specific governance policies that address model explainability, bias detection, and algorithmic accountability.
Establish cross-functional teams to oversee AI development, deployment, and ongoing monitoring throughout the model lifecycle.
Develop robust data quality and lineage processes to ensure the integrity and traceability of AI training and operational data.
Foster a culture of responsible AI by engaging stakeholders, providing comprehensive training, and recognizing champions who drive governance initiatives

Check out the incredible speaker line-up to see who will be joining Chris.

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