BACK • SEE IT SUMMIT 2019 • CONFERENCE SPEAKERS
Conference Speakers
Dr. Anna-Marie Vilamovska
Managing Partner, Innovation Accelerator Bulgaria
Dr. Anna-Marie Vilamovska represents Bulgaria at the EC Member States Board on Digital Entrepreneurship, is an individual member of the Advisory Council on the Marie Skodlowska-Curie Innovation and Science program of the EC, and is one of the national leads in the EC eSkills and Digital Entrepreneurship Campaigns.
In 2015 the Financial Times, Visegrad Fund, Google and ResPublica listed her as one of the NewEurope100 outstanding individuals leading world-class innovation from CEE. In 2016 Anna-Marie received the Polish Republic’s Commodore's Crest state insignia for her contribution to creating Innovative Europe, becoming one of its youngest holders.
From 2003 to 2005 Anna-Marie, A RAND economics Ph.D., designed national pension system in Central and South Asia, the Middle East, and Central Europe for IBRD and IDA in Washington, D.C. and between 2005 and 2010 led applied innovation, health and education policy and financing projects for large corporate, government, international non-profit and multilateral clients at the RAND Corporation in Los Angeles and Brussels.
Between 2012 and 2017 Anna-Marie was the Senior Advisor for Innovation Policy and Healthcare Policy to Bulgaria’s President Rossen Plevneliev. As such she reengineered and led the President’s “John Atanasoff Outstanding Young Digital Scientists and Entrepreneurs Awards”, Bulgaria’s largest philanthropic initiative “The Bulgarian Christmas”, and chaired the Presidential Council for Science, Education and Economic Development.
Since Sept. 2018 Anna-Marie is the Executive director of the Bulgarian Outsourcing Association.
In February 2017 she launched her applied economics company Working Ideas. In the first half of 2017 she led the development of Plovdiv’s 2017 – 2022 Education Strategy for Growth, adopted by Plovdiv's municipal council in July 2017. During the same period, she structured and led the first phase of the 2017 – 2020 IT Talent Hub Bulgaria – a public private partnership of the Bulgarian IT Industry and the Ministry of Education – under which in Sept. 2017 the new industry-designed “applied software developer” high school degree program is launching in 23 schools nationally.
Dr. Anna-Marie Vilamovska represents Bulgaria at the EC Member States Board on Digital Entrepreneurship, is an individual member of the Advisory Council on the Marie Skodlowska-Curie Innovation and Science program of the EC, and is one of the national leads in the EC eSkills and Digital Entrepreneurship Campaigns.
In 2015 the Financial Times, Visegrad Fund, Google and ResPublica listed her as one of the NewEurope100 outstanding individuals leading world-class innovation from CEE. In 2016 Anna-Marie received the Polish Republic’s Commodore's Crest state insignia for her contribution to creating Innovative Europe, becoming one of its youngest holders.
From 2003 to 2005 Anna-Marie, A RAND economics Ph.D., designed national pension system in Central and South Asia, the Middle East, and Central Europe for IBRD and IDA in Washington, D.C. and between 2005 and 2010 led applied innovation, health and education policy and financing projects for large corporate, government, international non-profit and multilateral clients at the RAND Corporation in Los Angeles and Brussels.
Between 2012 and 2017 Anna-Marie was the Senior Advisor for Innovation Policy and Healthcare Policy to Bulgaria’s President Rossen Plevneliev. As such she reengineered and led the President’s “John Atanasoff Outstanding Young Digital Scientists and Entrepreneurs Awards”, Bulgaria’s largest philanthropic initiative “The Bulgarian Christmas”, and chaired the Presidential Council for Science, Education and Economic Development.
Since Sept. 2018 Anna-Marie is the Executive director of the Bulgarian Outsourcing Association.
In February 2017 she launched her applied economics company Working Ideas. In the first half of 2017 she led the development of Plovdiv’s 2017 – 2022 Education Strategy for Growth, adopted by Plovdiv's municipal council in July 2017. During the same period, she structured and led the first phase of the 2017 – 2020 IT Talent Hub Bulgaria – a public private partnership of the Bulgarian IT Industry and the Ministry of Education – under which in Sept. 2017 the new industry-designed “applied software developer” high school degree program is launching in 23 schools nationally.
Bogdan Stanache
Chairman of Webdilio Group
Mr. Bogdan Stanache, who is both a founding member of one of the largest IT & Innovation center in East-Europe, innesglobal.ro and chairman of WEBDILIO GROUP, a privately owned group of companies with strong presence in countries such as Singapore, Hong Kong, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Romania, UK and US, covering the public and the private sector, customers like VW, BMW, OCBC Bank, Bank of China, Citrix, etc.
Mr. Stanache has more than 15 years in delivering and implementing IT projects for medium-large companies. Lately, he is also deep involved into Blockchain Technology, Innovation, IOT, AI, Hyperledger, Fundamental of programming, procedural language, flat and relational databases.
Lately, he is also involved in charity programs over the world specially in India, on the flip side he is an investor in technology and a business angel.
Mr. Bogdan Stanache, who is both a founding member of one of the largest IT & Innovation center in East-Europe, innesglobal.ro and chairman of WEBDILIO GROUP, a privately owned group of companies with strong presence in countries such as Singapore, Hong Kong, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Romania, UK and US, covering the public and the private sector, customers like VW, BMW, OCBC Bank, Bank of China, Citrix, etc.
Mr. Stanache has more than 15 years in delivering and implementing IT projects for medium-large companies. Lately, he is also deep involved into Blockchain Technology, Innovation, IOT, AI, Hyperledger, Fundamental of programming, procedural language, flat and relational databases.
Lately, he is also involved in charity programs over the world specially in India, on the flip side he is an investor in technology and a business angel.
Dr Boyko Takov
Executive Director of The Bulgarian Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion Agency
Dr. Takov has a proven executive management track record and over 12 years of experience in business management. He spent 4 years at The Executive Agency „State Property of the Ministry of Defense", where he served in various expert positions. From 2008 to 2012 he was CEO and member of the Board of Directors of the Bulgarian subsidiary company of a leading South Korean energy company.
Over the years, he had been at executive and management positions in some of the most advanced areas of business and investment, where project and finance management in agriculture, energy and infrastructure was only part of his biography.
He earned his doctorate in Economics, Industrial Engineering and Management at the Technical University in Sofia and his Master's degree in Marketing and Economics at the University of National and World Economy, Sofia.
Dr. Takov has a proven executive management track record and over 12 years of experience in business management. He spent 4 years at The Executive Agency „State Property of the Ministry of Defense", where he served in various expert positions. From 2008 to 2012 he was CEO and member of the Board of Directors of the Bulgarian subsidiary company of a leading South Korean energy company.
Over the years, he had been at executive and management positions in some of the most advanced areas of business and investment, where project and finance management in agriculture, energy and infrastructure was only part of his biography.
He earned his doctorate in Economics, Industrial Engineering and Management at the Technical University in Sofia and his Master's degree in Marketing and Economics at the University of National and World Economy, Sofia.
Dr Daniel Susskind
Fellow in Economics at Balliol College, University of Oxford
Dr Daniel Susskind explores the impact of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, on work and society. He is a Fellow in Economics at Balliol College, Oxford University, where he teaches and researches. He is the co-author of the best-selling book, The Future of the Professions. His TED Talk, on the future of work, has been viewed more than 1.4 million times.
Previously he worked in the British Government – as a policy adviser in the Prime Minister's Strategy Unit, as a policy analyst in the Policy Unit in 10 Downing Street, and as a senior policy adviser in the Cabinet Office. He was a Kennedy Scholar at Harvard University.
Dr Daniel Susskind explores the impact of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, on work and society. He is a Fellow in Economics at Balliol College, Oxford University, where he teaches and researches. He is the co-author of the best-selling book, The Future of the Professions. His TED Talk, on the future of work, has been viewed more than 1.4 million times.
Previously he worked in the British Government – as a policy adviser in the Prime Minister's Strategy Unit, as a policy analyst in the Policy Unit in 10 Downing Street, and as a senior policy adviser in the Cabinet Office. He was a Kennedy Scholar at Harvard University.
Daniela Mihovska
Director Business Systems and Solutions HR, Public Affairs & Communications at Coca-Cola HBC Group
A Coke dreamer at heart with 20 years with The Coca-Cola System, Daniela is responsible for leading the people digital transformation and shaping the future of digital workplace.
Her extensive experience in HR and Public Affairs & Communication functions includes country and group executive roles, resulting in strong talent bench strength development and leading industry practices. Recently she has been focusing on productization of the technology function, establishing new digital products and teams.
Coca-Cola HBC is one of the largest bottlers of The Coca-Cola Company, spreading happiness since 1981. The company operates in 28 countries on 3 continents, employing 30 000 employees, selling 2.1 billion unit cases of beverages on an annual basis. Coca-Cola HBC has been recognized as Global beverage industry leader in sustainability for the four-consecutive year according to Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI).
A Coke dreamer at heart with 20 years with The Coca-Cola System, Daniela is responsible for leading the people digital transformation and shaping the future of digital workplace.
Her extensive experience in HR and Public Affairs & Communication functions includes country and group executive roles, resulting in strong talent bench strength development and leading industry practices. Recently she has been focusing on productization of the technology function, establishing new digital products and teams.
Coca-Cola HBC is one of the largest bottlers of The Coca-Cola Company, spreading happiness since 1981. The company operates in 28 countries on 3 continents, employing 30 000 employees, selling 2.1 billion unit cases of beverages on an annual basis. Coca-Cola HBC has been recognized as Global beverage industry leader in sustainability for the four-consecutive year according to Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI).
David Petroczy
C&W Associate Partner, Strategic Consulting EMEA Global Occupier Services
David Petroczy is an associate partner within C&W's Strategic Consulting team. Strategic Consulting is dedicated to optimize corporate performance by ensuring optimal alignment between real estate strategy and business objectives. We focus on 3 areas that are key to our client strategy:
— WHERE to locate to attract and retain the best talent?
— HOW to work to improve corporate performance?
— WHAT portfolio strategy, how to finance & manage it?
David is a location consultancy specialist with over 5 years of experience in advising investors. He manages international projects with expertise in global business strategies and local implementation processes in all sectors. He supports investors to make informed decisions based on data analytics, local insights and future global trends.
David Petroczy is an associate partner within C&W's Strategic Consulting team. Strategic Consulting is dedicated to optimize corporate performance by ensuring optimal alignment between real estate strategy and business objectives. We focus on 3 areas that are key to our client strategy:
— WHERE to locate to attract and retain the best talent?
— HOW to work to improve corporate performance?
— WHAT portfolio strategy, how to finance & manage it?
David is a location consultancy specialist with over 5 years of experience in advising investors. He manages international projects with expertise in global business strategies and local implementation processes in all sectors. He supports investors to make informed decisions based on data analytics, local insights and future global trends.
Diana Nikolaeva
Partner in EY Bulgaria
Diana Nikolaeva is a Partner in EY Bulgaria. She is leading the Transaction Advisory Services offering in Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Albania and Kosovo. Diana is a member of the Business Valuation Board of the International Valuation Standards Council (IVSC). She is also a member of the CFA Institute (USA) and a CFA Charter holder. She is a licensed appraiser. Diana was one of the founders and the first Chairwoman of the Chamber of the Professional Valuers in Bulgaria.
Diana's leadership experience includes numerous projects related to valuation of the tangible and intangible assets, purchase price allocation, mergers and acquisitions, corporate management, financial analysis and investments consulting, restructuring and financial due diligence services. For more than 28 years she runs projects in energy sector, health care, banking and financial institutions, transport and communications, real estates, privatization, etc.
Diana is actively involved in various community initiatives aimed at enhancing women's engagement in the modern business world. She is a member of the Council of Women in Business in Bulgaria and a member of the Supervisory Board of Ladies' Forum
Diana Nikolaeva is a Partner in EY Bulgaria. She is leading the Transaction Advisory Services offering in Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Albania and Kosovo. Diana is a member of the Business Valuation Board of the International Valuation Standards Council (IVSC). She is also a member of the CFA Institute (USA) and a CFA Charter holder. She is a licensed appraiser. Diana was one of the founders and the first Chairwoman of the Chamber of the Professional Valuers in Bulgaria.
Diana's leadership experience includes numerous projects related to valuation of the tangible and intangible assets, purchase price allocation, mergers and acquisitions, corporate management, financial analysis and investments consulting, restructuring and financial due diligence services. For more than 28 years she runs projects in energy sector, health care, banking and financial institutions, transport and communications, real estates, privatization, etc.
Diana is actively involved in various community initiatives aimed at enhancing women's engagement in the modern business world. She is a member of the Council of Women in Business in Bulgaria and a member of the Supervisory Board of Ladies' Forum
Dimitar Ouzounov
CTO and co-founder of Documaster
Dimitar Ouzounov holds degrees in computer science and software engineering from the American University in Bulgaria and Dublin City University, and has more than 10 years of experience at various technical positions in the IT industry. He is CTO and co-founder of Documaster – a Norwegian software company developing products for electronic records management and archiving in the public and private sector.
Dimitar Ouzounov holds degrees in computer science and software engineering from the American University in Bulgaria and Dublin City University, and has more than 10 years of experience at various technical positions in the IT industry. He is CTO and co-founder of Documaster – a Norwegian software company developing products for electronic records management and archiving in the public and private sector.
Elias Van Herwaarden
EMEA Service Leader at Deloitte's Centre of Excellence
Elias Van Herwaarden is EMEA Service Leader at Deloitte's Centre of Excellence for corporate site selection and foreign direct investment services.
He has 27 years experience in location consulting and assisted over 550 clients with international site selection and corporate restructuring. In the last 10 years, he assessed off/near-shore operating and cost conditions for over 110 SSCs and more recently GBS, conducting fieldwork in 45 countries around the globe.
Elias has spoken and led seminars on topics pertaining to manufacturing, high-tech and customer service locations, global location strategy, outsourcing, offshoring, Central Europe, Russia, Asia, future trends and foreign direct investment promotion.
Elias lectures on International Business Strategy, Offshoring and Outsourcing at KU Leuven University and Brussels University College. He is has been part of Deloitte’s Shared Services Leadership team and a member of the Site Selectors Guild, the only association of the world's foremost professional site selection consultants.
Elias Van Herwaarden is EMEA Service Leader at Deloitte's Centre of Excellence for corporate site selection and foreign direct investment services.
He has 27 years experience in location consulting and assisted over 550 clients with international site selection and corporate restructuring. In the last 10 years, he assessed off/near-shore operating and cost conditions for over 110 SSCs and more recently GBS, conducting fieldwork in 45 countries around the globe.
Elias has spoken and led seminars on topics pertaining to manufacturing, high-tech and customer service locations, global location strategy, outsourcing, offshoring, Central Europe, Russia, Asia, future trends and foreign direct investment promotion.
Elias lectures on International Business Strategy, Offshoring and Outsourcing at KU Leuven University and Brussels University College. He is has been part of Deloitte’s Shared Services Leadership team and a member of the Site Selectors Guild, the only association of the world's foremost professional site selection consultants.
Filip Genov
Vice President and Special Projects Senior Manager at UniCredit Bulbank
Filip Genov is a banker with more than 20 years of experience at top managerial positions in Bulgaria and worldwide. At the moment he is managing the project of UniCredit Bulbank for financing of startup businesses which, besides a loan, may receive highly professional support for the structuring of a working business plan and contacts with potential clients.
Filip has extensive experience in the creation and implementation of various innovative projects for development of business initiatives for UniCredit in Bulgaria, Italy, Germany and the countries from the CEE region. He is a business angel, mentor and investor in startup companies of young entrepreneurs.
Filip Genov holds an MBA from the NYU Stern School of Business and the London School of Economics and a master's degree from SDA Bocconi, Italy.
Filip Genov is a banker with more than 20 years of experience at top managerial positions in Bulgaria and worldwide. At the moment he is managing the project of UniCredit Bulbank for financing of startup businesses which, besides a loan, may receive highly professional support for the structuring of a working business plan and contacts with potential clients.
Filip has extensive experience in the creation and implementation of various innovative projects for development of business initiatives for UniCredit in Bulgaria, Italy, Germany and the countries from the CEE region. He is a business angel, mentor and investor in startup companies of young entrepreneurs.
Filip Genov holds an MBA from the NYU Stern School of Business and the London School of Economics and a master's degree from SDA Bocconi, Italy.
Ivaylo Slavov
Chairman of the Bulgarian Outsourcing Association, Founder and CEO of BULPROS
Ivaylo Slavov is a highly qualified entrepreneur and corporate executive specialized in managing both start-ups and established organizations. He has more than 20 years of international experience in the fields of Information Technology, Financial Services, IT-Outsourcing, Business Process Outsourcing and Human Resources.
Ivaylo co-founded BULPROS in April 2010 and for 8 years under his leadership the company grew at a very fast pace and continuously doubled its size, year over year. Currently BULPROS has over 1200 employees working across 18 offices, located in North America and Europe, which are its main target markets. It is recognized as one of the fastest growing technology companies by the latest rankings from Deloitte “Technology Fast 50 in CE” and “Technology Fast 500 in Europe, Middle East, and Africa”, Inc. 5000 Europe, Financial Times 1000 Europe etc.
In 2017, he was selected as a member of the Board of Directors of AmCham in Bulgaria and co-chairman of its Digital Economy Committee.
Ivaylo Slavov is a highly qualified entrepreneur and corporate executive specialized in managing both start-ups and established organizations. He has more than 20 years of international experience in the fields of Information Technology, Financial Services, IT-Outsourcing, Business Process Outsourcing and Human Resources.
Ivaylo co-founded BULPROS in April 2010 and for 8 years under his leadership the company grew at a very fast pace and continuously doubled its size, year over year. Currently BULPROS has over 1200 employees working across 18 offices, located in North America and Europe, which are its main target markets. It is recognized as one of the fastest growing technology companies by the latest rankings from Deloitte “Technology Fast 50 in CE” and “Technology Fast 500 in Europe, Middle East, and Africa”, Inc. 5000 Europe, Financial Times 1000 Europe etc.
In 2017, he was selected as a member of the Board of Directors of AmCham in Bulgaria and co-chairman of its Digital Economy Committee.
Julian Milev
Vice President of Finance and CFO of TELUS International Europe
Julian Milev is Vice President of Finance and CFO of TELUS International Europe. He is one of the two procurators of the company in Bulgaria which employs 3,000 team members in Sofia and Plovdiv, serving more than 50 multinational clients from different industries. In his role he is also responsible for the regional financial operations of the company in Europe.
His previous experience includes four years as a Corporate and Investment Banking Manager at Citibank Europe. He has 10 years of experience in the Finance and Merger and Acquisition transactions sector at Kraft Foods International, where he has held various management positions in Bulgaria, England and Switzerland. Prior to that Julian has also been Associate Partner at the investee company Entrea Capital.
He has an MBA degree in Strategic Management and BA and BSc degrees in the fields of Accounting & Auditing and Business Administration. He has been a member of the Board of Directors of the Bulgarian Outsourcing Association for 2017.
Julian Milev is Vice President of Finance and CFO of TELUS International Europe. He is one of the two procurators of the company in Bulgaria which employs 3,000 team members in Sofia and Plovdiv, serving more than 50 multinational clients from different industries. In his role he is also responsible for the regional financial operations of the company in Europe.
His previous experience includes four years as a Corporate and Investment Banking Manager at Citibank Europe. He has 10 years of experience in the Finance and Merger and Acquisition transactions sector at Kraft Foods International, where he has held various management positions in Bulgaria, England and Switzerland. Prior to that Julian has also been Associate Partner at the investee company Entrea Capital.
He has an MBA degree in Strategic Management and BA and BSc degrees in the fields of Accounting & Auditing and Business Administration. He has been a member of the Board of Directors of the Bulgarian Outsourcing Association for 2017.
Kamen Kolchev
CEO of ELANA Financial Holding
Kamen Kolchev is the CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors of ELANA Financial Holding. He founded ELANA in 1991. Originally, the company started with brokerage services and developed into one of the largest institutions in the non-banking sector with a diverse portfolio of financial services. Kamen Kolchev chairs work groups on finance and energy at the Confederation of Employers and Industrialists in Bulgaria after being a Board member of the organization for a few years. He used to chair the Bulgarian Association of Licensed Investment Intermediaries as one of the founders of the organization till 2008.
Kamen Kolchev holds a Master’s degree of Mathematics from Sofia University. He graduated also a CEE Corporate Governance Programme in Prague and International Capital Markets at the NY Institute of Finance.
Kamen Kolchev is the CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors of ELANA Financial Holding. He founded ELANA in 1991. Originally, the company started with brokerage services and developed into one of the largest institutions in the non-banking sector with a diverse portfolio of financial services. Kamen Kolchev chairs work groups on finance and energy at the Confederation of Employers and Industrialists in Bulgaria after being a Board member of the organization for a few years. He used to chair the Bulgarian Association of Licensed Investment Intermediaries as one of the founders of the organization till 2008.
Kamen Kolchev holds a Master’s degree of Mathematics from Sofia University. He graduated also a CEE Corporate Governance Programme in Prague and International Capital Markets at the NY Institute of Finance.
Karel Franchois
Vice President, Business Development & Growth Initiatives at HFS Research
Karel Franchois is Vice President, Business Development and Growth Initiatives and is part of the business development team at HFS Research. Karel supports the expansion of HFS’ reach with companies “at the core of innovation”. From the innovation award at IBM Global Business Services, over sales & marketing process improvement at Metastorm, to new customer-centric, outcome-based disruptive commercial models at Ooyala, Piksel and NeuLion for the media & broadcast industry – for more than a decade innovation, change, disruption, process improvement, digital and analytics have been a thread through Karel’s career. With Robotic Process Automation, Artificial Intelligence, Cognitive Computing and Smart Analytics the disruptive drivers of Digital Transformation towards the Digital OneOffice and the Hyper-connected Enterprise in the As-a-Service Economy, he is excited to be a part of HFS – the company that brings “the next big thing”.
Karel Franchois is Vice President, Business Development and Growth Initiatives and is part of the business development team at HFS Research. Karel supports the expansion of HFS’ reach with companies “at the core of innovation”. From the innovation award at IBM Global Business Services, over sales & marketing process improvement at Metastorm, to new customer-centric, outcome-based disruptive commercial models at Ooyala, Piksel and NeuLion for the media & broadcast industry – for more than a decade innovation, change, disruption, process improvement, digital and analytics have been a thread through Karel’s career. With Robotic Process Automation, Artificial Intelligence, Cognitive Computing and Smart Analytics the disruptive drivers of Digital Transformation towards the Digital OneOffice and the Hyper-connected Enterprise in the As-a-Service Economy, he is excited to be a part of HFS – the company that brings “the next big thing”.
Mariya Belopitova, ACC
Member of the Leadership team of ICF Bulgaria
Mariya holds over 20 years of experience in a multinational corporate environment, of which over 10 years in Human Resources Management as Senior Manager at UniCredit. She is a professional coach, member of the International Coach Federation (ICF) and Director Finances of ICF Bulgaria. As an ICF Leader, her mission is to promote the value of professional coaching as a high quality service with high return on investment for the client.
Mariya is an ICF Associate Certified Coach (ACC) and Narrative Coach. In her coaching practice she integrates her experience in managing finances, processes, systems, teams and people. She specializes in coaching for personal and organizational transformation by developing skills for flexibility, adaptability, sustainability and change management.
Before her qualification as a professional coach, Mariya holds and MSc degree in Automatics and computer technique from Moscow Power Institute, Russia; an MBA from Sofia University and she is a highly qualified HR expert, with extensive experience in HR strategy, performance management, motivation, remuneration and benefits systems.
Mariya holds over 20 years of experience in a multinational corporate environment, of which over 10 years in Human Resources Management as Senior Manager at UniCredit. She is a professional coach, member of the International Coach Federation (ICF) and Director Finances of ICF Bulgaria. As an ICF Leader, her mission is to promote the value of professional coaching as a high quality service with high return on investment for the client.
Mariya is an ICF Associate Certified Coach (ACC) and Narrative Coach. In her coaching practice she integrates her experience in managing finances, processes, systems, teams and people. She specializes in coaching for personal and organizational transformation by developing skills for flexibility, adaptability, sustainability and change management.
Before her qualification as a professional coach, Mariya holds and MSc degree in Automatics and computer technique from Moscow Power Institute, Russia; an MBA from Sofia University and she is a highly qualified HR expert, with extensive experience in HR strategy, performance management, motivation, remuneration and benefits systems.
Mariya Gabriel
Martin Wezowski
Chief Designer and Futurist for SAP
Martin Wezowski works as Chief Designer and Futurist for SAP's Technology & Innovation strategy team. He moved across a range of disciplines from UX, to systemic design to define innovation visions and strategies. Right now, he is on the mission to map, build and inspire a future we want to live in. He crafts future outlooks, concepts, products, defines and runs innovation frameworks to find out what's next and beyond for SAP's cast ecosystem and the future of work. 2017 he was named 1 of 100 most innovative minds in Germany as the “Software visionary” (“Handelsblatt”).
Martin studied construction engineering, design and modern media production technologies. Prior to joining SAP in 2013, he worked for Sony Ericsson (Sweden) as creative director for 7 years. He also lived in Shenzhen, China for 2 years while serving as director of the UX board (Huawei). His innovation strategies helped to bring the Chinese tech giant’s consumer business from number 8 to number 3 in the marketplace.
Martin Wezowski works as Chief Designer and Futurist for SAP's Technology & Innovation strategy team. He moved across a range of disciplines from UX, to systemic design to define innovation visions and strategies. Right now, he is on the mission to map, build and inspire a future we want to live in. He crafts future outlooks, concepts, products, defines and runs innovation frameworks to find out what's next and beyond for SAP's cast ecosystem and the future of work. 2017 he was named 1 of 100 most innovative minds in Germany as the “Software visionary” (“Handelsblatt”).
Martin studied construction engineering, design and modern media production technologies. Prior to joining SAP in 2013, he worked for Sony Ericsson (Sweden) as creative director for 7 years. He also lived in Shenzhen, China for 2 years while serving as director of the UX board (Huawei). His innovation strategies helped to bring the Chinese tech giant’s consumer business from number 8 to number 3 in the marketplace.
Milena Ilieva
HR Director at A Data Pro
Milena is a passionate HR professional, with more than 10 years of experience in the field. She joined A Data Pro in 2012 as a Training and Development manager and holds the position of HR Director since 2017. She is responsible for the strategic development of the human capital in the company, managing internal projects in the field of capabilities assessment, performance management, organisational change and design.
Before joining the company, Milena gained rich experience as a Senior HR consultant while working with international companies in the information services, telecommunications, baking, FMCG and pharma sectors. She takes the improvement of the educational environment in Bulgaria as a personal cause and works for strengthening the collaboration between the business sector and educational institutions, while actively taking part in various projects and initiatives with some of the largest universities in Bulgaria.
Milena has a BA in Psychology from Sofia University and is certified in applied psychoanalytic course: Latent period-Maturity. She has additional qualifications in the field of human resource management, talent acquisition, capabilities assessment. She is the author of publications that deal with career orientation & development, HR best practices, employer branding and marketing.
Milena is a passionate HR professional, with more than 10 years of experience in the field. She joined A Data Pro in 2012 as a Training and Development manager and holds the position of HR Director since 2017. She is responsible for the strategic development of the human capital in the company, managing internal projects in the field of capabilities assessment, performance management, organisational change and design.
Before joining the company, Milena gained rich experience as a Senior HR consultant while working with international companies in the information services, telecommunications, baking, FMCG and pharma sectors. She takes the improvement of the educational environment in Bulgaria as a personal cause and works for strengthening the collaboration between the business sector and educational institutions, while actively taking part in various projects and initiatives with some of the largest universities in Bulgaria.
Milena has a BA in Psychology from Sofia University and is certified in applied psychoanalytic course: Latent period-Maturity. She has additional qualifications in the field of human resource management, talent acquisition, capabilities assessment. She is the author of publications that deal with career orientation & development, HR best practices, employer branding and marketing.
Naiden Kostadinov
Partner at EY Bulgaria
CPA, FCCA is a Partner at EY Bulgaria, leading the Global Compliance & Reporting Services in EY for Bulgaria, FYROM, Albania and Kosovo.
He has 20 years of experience in providing accounting and payroll outsource, audit and transaction advisory services to clients operating in various industries including shared services, IT, manufacturing, financial services, pharmaceuticals, energy. He has led projects for clients in more than 20 European countries.
In the last five years Naiden has been leading the development of strong EY practices for full outsourcing of accounting, payroll and tax compliance functions in Bulgaria FYROM, Albania and Kosovo.
Naiden has delivered financial analysis training programs to Bulgarian banks. He is the author of several media articles on outsourcing, investment analysis and working capital management.
CPA, FCCA is a Partner at EY Bulgaria, leading the Global Compliance & Reporting Services in EY for Bulgaria, FYROM, Albania and Kosovo.
He has 20 years of experience in providing accounting and payroll outsource, audit and transaction advisory services to clients operating in various industries including shared services, IT, manufacturing, financial services, pharmaceuticals, energy. He has led projects for clients in more than 20 European countries.
In the last five years Naiden has been leading the development of strong EY practices for full outsourcing of accounting, payroll and tax compliance functions in Bulgaria FYROM, Albania and Kosovo.
Naiden has delivered financial analysis training programs to Bulgarian banks. He is the author of several media articles on outsourcing, investment analysis and working capital management.
Petar Krendev
Global Program Director, Experian
Petar Krendev is currently taking the role of Program Director at Experian, leading large-scale migration and transformational programs with global footprint. Previously, he was the Head of Sofia Delivery Center department responsible for the operations and strategic development of the division. Petar joined Experian Bulgaria in 2010 starting as Implementation Manager, later on being Business Analysis Manager.
Petar is bringing to Experian 20 years experience in the area of IT delivering complex solutions to customers on the local and international markets. Prior to Experian, he held different positions in Bulgarian and international companies like Application Consultant, Project Manager and Team Manager. Petar holds a MSc degree in International Economic Relations from the University of National and World Economy in Sofia.
Petar Krendev is currently taking the role of Program Director at Experian, leading large-scale migration and transformational programs with global footprint. Previously, he was the Head of Sofia Delivery Center department responsible for the operations and strategic development of the division. Petar joined Experian Bulgaria in 2010 starting as Implementation Manager, later on being Business Analysis Manager.
Petar is bringing to Experian 20 years experience in the area of IT delivering complex solutions to customers on the local and international markets. Prior to Experian, he held different positions in Bulgarian and international companies like Application Consultant, Project Manager and Team Manager. Petar holds a MSc degree in International Economic Relations from the University of National and World Economy in Sofia.
Plamen Tsekov
CEO and co-founders of ScaleFocus
Plamen Tsekov, CEO and one of the founders of ScaleFocus, the biggest Bulgarian software and technology innovation company, one of the fastest growing in the region.
ScaleFocus has more than 800 software engineers and consultants, delivering software engineering and digital transformation services to more than 100 enterprise customers in North America, European Union and rest of the world.
Plamen Tsekov, CEO and one of the founders of ScaleFocus, the biggest Bulgarian software and technology innovation company, one of the fastest growing in the region.
ScaleFocus has more than 800 software engineers and consultants, delivering software engineering and digital transformation services to more than 100 enterprise customers in North America, European Union and rest of the world.
Rosen Plevneliev
President of the Republic of Bulgaria 2012–2017
Until 2009 Plevneliev is a successful entrepreneur. Enters politics in 2009 serving as a minister of regional development and public works. Elected President of the Republic of Bulgaria in November 2011. Initiated the National Development Program Bulgaria 2020. He set long-term national priorities such as innovations, e-government, e-voting, ambitious modernization program, connectivity, vocational education, long-term public planning, energy efficiency, liberalization and diversification.
Patron of the first innovation ecosystem and the first hi-tech park in Bulgaria and on the Balkans – Sofia Tech Park. Patron of hi-tech industries – Information and Communication Technologies, outsourcing and automotive. Presented Person of the Year 2015 award of Ukraine for his political activity in international context. Awarded Friend of Zion Award as a great friend of Israel and for the courage of the Bulgarian people who bravely and courageously saved 48,000 Bulgarian Jews during WW II. Awarded IT Award for significant contribution to IT development by the Bulgarian Association of Information Technologies. Awarded the special WEBIT Festival prize for his outstanding contribution to the development of the digital economy in Bulgaria.
Honorable Chairman of the FOZ Museum in Israel. Member of Nizami Ganjavi International Center in Baku. Member of the Trilateral Commission. Member of the European Council on Foreign Relations. Distinguished Professor for the Emerging Markets Institute of Beijing Normal University. Distinguished Professor of Schwarzman College, Tsinghua University. Member of the International Advisory Board of GLOBSEC. Member of the Global Advisory Committee of the National Strategy Institute of Tsinghua University. Honorary chairman of the Emerging Europe Alliance for Business Services, Innovation and Technology.
Until 2009 Plevneliev is a successful entrepreneur. Enters politics in 2009 serving as a minister of regional development and public works. Elected President of the Republic of Bulgaria in November 2011. Initiated the National Development Program Bulgaria 2020. He set long-term national priorities such as innovations, e-government, e-voting, ambitious modernization program, connectivity, vocational education, long-term public planning, energy efficiency, liberalization and diversification.
Patron of the first innovation ecosystem and the first hi-tech park in Bulgaria and on the Balkans – Sofia Tech Park. Patron of hi-tech industries – Information and Communication Technologies, outsourcing and automotive. Presented Person of the Year 2015 award of Ukraine for his political activity in international context. Awarded Friend of Zion Award as a great friend of Israel and for the courage of the Bulgarian people who bravely and courageously saved 48,000 Bulgarian Jews during WW II. Awarded IT Award for significant contribution to IT development by the Bulgarian Association of Information Technologies. Awarded the special WEBIT Festival prize for his outstanding contribution to the development of the digital economy in Bulgaria.
Honorable Chairman of the FOZ Museum in Israel. Member of Nizami Ganjavi International Center in Baku. Member of the Trilateral Commission. Member of the European Council on Foreign Relations. Distinguished Professor for the Emerging Markets Institute of Beijing Normal University. Distinguished Professor of Schwarzman College, Tsinghua University. Member of the International Advisory Board of GLOBSEC. Member of the Global Advisory Committee of the National Strategy Institute of Tsinghua University. Honorary chairman of the Emerging Europe Alliance for Business Services, Innovation and Technology.
Sebastian Bedekier
Partner, Poznań Regional Director, Colliers International
Sebastian Bedekier joined Colliers International in 2012. He is responsible for developing new business in the Poznań region, acquiring new clients and advisory in leasing office space. He cooperates with companies representing sectors such as: financing, legal, audit, medical, IT, new technologies, air transport and many others. Sebastian specializes in the BPO/SSC projects in Poland. He has wide experience in working with the public sector. Before joining Colliers Sebastian was the Head of Investors Relation Department in the City of Poznań.
Sebastian Bedekier joined Colliers International in 2012. He is responsible for developing new business in the Poznań region, acquiring new clients and advisory in leasing office space. He cooperates with companies representing sectors such as: financing, legal, audit, medical, IT, new technologies, air transport and many others. Sebastian specializes in the BPO/SSC projects in Poland. He has wide experience in working with the public sector. Before joining Colliers Sebastian was the Head of Investors Relation Department in the City of Poznań.
Stoyan Boev
Managing Director, ICB-InterConsult
Stoyan Boev is Managing Director of ICB-InterConsult Bulgaria – a leading Bulgarian software and consulting company with more than 23 years market presence.
Being member of the Executive Board at DIGITAL EUROPE, member of the Managing board of the Bulgarian Association of Information Technologies (BAIT), member of the Bulgarian Association of Software Companies (BASSCOM) and founder of the Bulgarian ICT cluster, Mr. Boev is one of the key influential figures on the Bulgarian ICT market development.
Stoyan Boev is Managing Director of ICB-InterConsult Bulgaria – a leading Bulgarian software and consulting company with more than 23 years market presence.
Being member of the Executive Board at DIGITAL EUROPE, member of the Managing board of the Bulgarian Association of Information Technologies (BAIT), member of the Bulgarian Association of Software Companies (BASSCOM) and founder of the Bulgarian ICT cluster, Mr. Boev is one of the key influential figures on the Bulgarian ICT market development.
Svetozar Georgiev
Co-founder of Telerik, Telerik Academy and Campus X
Svetozar Georgiev is a co-founder of Telerik, Telerik Academy and Campus X. After spending 14 years building a global software company, he is now dedicated to sharing his learnings with the next generation of Bulgarian entrepreneurs.
As a co-founder and co-CEO of Telerik, Svetozar has been instrumental in steering the company from a bootstrapped startup to a global market leader, employing 850+ people in 11 offices around the world. Today, he is overseeing the development the educational institutions Telerik Academy and Telerik Academy Foundation, as well as the biggest private incubator in Bulgaria – Campus X.
Svetozar is also an active mentor, advisor and angel investor, working with numerous startups and community organizations. His mission is to help the local tech and start-up ecosystems evolve and become strong bottom-up forces for positive change in Bulgaria.
Svetozar Georgiev is a co-founder of Telerik, Telerik Academy and Campus X. After spending 14 years building a global software company, he is now dedicated to sharing his learnings with the next generation of Bulgarian entrepreneurs.
As a co-founder and co-CEO of Telerik, Svetozar has been instrumental in steering the company from a bootstrapped startup to a global market leader, employing 850+ people in 11 offices around the world. Today, he is overseeing the development the educational institutions Telerik Academy and Telerik Academy Foundation, as well as the biggest private incubator in Bulgaria – Campus X.
Svetozar is also an active mentor, advisor and angel investor, working with numerous startups and community organizations. His mission is to help the local tech and start-up ecosystems evolve and become strong bottom-up forces for positive change in Bulgaria.
Tom Quigley
Owner and CMO of QuigleyMedia
Tom Quigley’s career spans some 31 years, mainly in two large UK financial services institutions; Aviva and Prudential. Tom was a CEO for the Emerging Europe Alliance for Business Services, Innovation and Technology.
Tom keenly regards himself as a market-level operator and regularly arranges European trips specifically to meet with buyers, service providers and support organisations in order to better understand market forces.
He also frequently speaks internationally on the subjects of marketing and outsourcing, and has engaged audiences at events in France, Sweden, Belgium, Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, South Africa and China to name a few.
Tom Quigley’s career spans some 31 years, mainly in two large UK financial services institutions; Aviva and Prudential. Tom was a CEO for the Emerging Europe Alliance for Business Services, Innovation and Technology.
Tom keenly regards himself as a market-level operator and regularly arranges European trips specifically to meet with buyers, service providers and support organisations in order to better understand market forces.
He also frequently speaks internationally on the subjects of marketing and outsourcing, and has engaged audiences at events in France, Sweden, Belgium, Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, South Africa and China to name a few.
Tomislav Donchev
Deputy Prime Minister of Republic of Bulgaria
Tomislav Donchev is a Bulgarian politician. He was Mayor of Gabrovo, Minister for the Management of EU Funds 2010-2013, Member of the National Assembly, Member of the European Parliament, Deputy Prime Minister in the last two Governments of Boyko Borisov.
He has two master's degrees in business administration and philosophy from University “Saints Cyril and Methodius" in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria. He has a second major in Journalism. He specializes in Political Science in Poland and Support of High-Tech Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises and Research and Development Start-Ups at the Institute in Negev, Israel. He completed a course in Business Mentoring at the Academy of Business Mentoring in Oxford, UK.
Over the years he worked in various NGOs in the field of Education and Science and was collaborator of a sociological research agency. He worked also as a teacher, editor at Radio Gabrovo, as well as an executive director of the High-tech Business Incubator Gabrovo organization.
Tomislav Donchev is a Bulgarian politician. He was Mayor of Gabrovo, Minister for the Management of EU Funds 2010-2013, Member of the National Assembly, Member of the European Parliament, Deputy Prime Minister in the last two Governments of Boyko Borisov.
He has two master's degrees in business administration and philosophy from University “Saints Cyril and Methodius" in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria. He has a second major in Journalism. He specializes in Political Science in Poland and Support of High-Tech Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises and Research and Development Start-Ups at the Institute in Negev, Israel. He completed a course in Business Mentoring at the Academy of Business Mentoring in Oxford, UK.
Over the years he worked in various NGOs in the field of Education and Science and was collaborator of a sociological research agency. He worked also as a teacher, editor at Radio Gabrovo, as well as an executive director of the High-tech Business Incubator Gabrovo organization.
Tony McMurray
Managing Director, Ingram Micro Sofia Global Business Services
Tony McMurray is a business leader with a strong background in Finance, Business Management and People Development. This skill has evolved over a 20-year career at Ingram Micro, where he has held a number of Senior Management positions in both the UK and overseas.
As a qualified CIMA Accountant Tony’s previous role before moving to Bulgaria was at Ingram Micro UK as Finance Director where he was accountable for all aspects of finance. This included Mergers & Acquisitions, Commercial Decision support, Strategic Planning & Budgeting, Adherence to US Corporate policies and Working Capital Management. As a qualified black belt in Six Sigma he is also an exponent of this continuous improvement methodology.
In 2018 Tony was appointed the Managing Director of Ingram Micro Bulgaria where he oversees all functions of the Sofia Shared Services operation including +800 associates. In the short time he has lead the organisation he has demonstrated a strong ability to drive strategic partnerships with key internal customers, representing Ingram Micro GBS within Europe, establishing a stronger brand in the local market and ultimately progressing the implementation of the “Horizon 2020” GBS Strategy.
Tony McMurray is a business leader with a strong background in Finance, Business Management and People Development. This skill has evolved over a 20-year career at Ingram Micro, where he has held a number of Senior Management positions in both the UK and overseas.
As a qualified CIMA Accountant Tony’s previous role before moving to Bulgaria was at Ingram Micro UK as Finance Director where he was accountable for all aspects of finance. This included Mergers & Acquisitions, Commercial Decision support, Strategic Planning & Budgeting, Adherence to US Corporate policies and Working Capital Management. As a qualified black belt in Six Sigma he is also an exponent of this continuous improvement methodology.
In 2018 Tony was appointed the Managing Director of Ingram Micro Bulgaria where he oversees all functions of the Sofia Shared Services operation including +800 associates. In the short time he has lead the organisation he has demonstrated a strong ability to drive strategic partnerships with key internal customers, representing Ingram Micro GBS within Europe, establishing a stronger brand in the local market and ultimately progressing the implementation of the “Horizon 2020” GBS Strategy.
Tzvetelina Teneva
Co-founder and Senior Facilitator at The Business Institute
Tzvetelina Teneva is a co-founder and Senior Facilitator at The Business Institute. Professional and trainer with vast experience in market strategies, marketing management, business innovations, innovative business models, entre- and intrapreneurship, value proposition design. She facilitates also workshops and business simulations, using Participatory Leadership techniques.
Key facilitator of business workshops and business simulations for corporate organisations, including Telenor Bulgaria, Paysafe, Vivacom, A1 Bulgaria, Sensata Bulgaria, Actavis Bulgaria, etc. Previously, MarCom Manager and Marketing Director at Orbitel (acquired by Magyar Telecom in 2016, currently part of A1 portfolio), Expert at the Government Information Service. Trainer of professionals since 2002.
Tzvetelina Teneva is a co-founder and Senior Facilitator at The Business Institute. Professional and trainer with vast experience in market strategies, marketing management, business innovations, innovative business models, entre- and intrapreneurship, value proposition design. She facilitates also workshops and business simulations, using Participatory Leadership techniques.
Key facilitator of business workshops and business simulations for corporate organisations, including Telenor Bulgaria, Paysafe, Vivacom, A1 Bulgaria, Sensata Bulgaria, Actavis Bulgaria, etc. Previously, MarCom Manager and Marketing Director at Orbitel (acquired by Magyar Telecom in 2016, currently part of A1 portfolio), Expert at the Government Information Service. Trainer of professionals since 2002.
Viktor Bilyanski
CTO of ScaleFocus
Viktor is the Chief Technology Officer of ScaleFocus. He puts together the computer geek and the experienced leader in a unique combination. Viktor has a deep understanding of mechanisms for IT cost optimization, increasing business efficiency and Business/IT alignment. He leads implementations of new technologies and approaches. In addition to his strong software development background, Viktor has more than 8 years of experience in the telecom sector, driving large-scale enterprise implementations/integrations for telecoms in Central and Eastern Europe and North America.
Viktor is the Chief Technology Officer of ScaleFocus. He puts together the computer geek and the experienced leader in a unique combination. Viktor has a deep understanding of mechanisms for IT cost optimization, increasing business efficiency and Business/IT alignment. He leads implementations of new technologies and approaches. In addition to his strong software development background, Viktor has more than 8 years of experience in the telecom sector, driving large-scale enterprise implementations/integrations for telecoms in Central and Eastern Europe and North America.
Volodymyr Saviak
Hewlett-Packard Enterprise AI, HPC & POD Sales Manager in CEE countries
More than 25 years delivers IT solutions on CEE market, focused on High Performance Computing, Big Data and recently Artificial Intelligence. Volodymyr is helping organizations to understand benefits and implement technical computing solutions and getting most of their Big Data. For the development of the "First Ukrainian Supercomputer Center" and Ukrainian HPC community, he was awarded a top level Ukraine's Parliament Award for Significant Achievements.
More than 25 years delivers IT solutions on CEE market, focused on High Performance Computing, Big Data and recently Artificial Intelligence. Volodymyr is helping organizations to understand benefits and implement technical computing solutions and getting most of their Big Data. For the development of the "First Ukrainian Supercomputer Center" and Ukrainian HPC community, he was awarded a top level Ukraine's Parliament Award for Significant Achievements.
