BFUTR 2025 Speakers

Mainstage Speakers

Bozoma Saint John Brand Marketing Executive Headliner

Bozoma Saint John Brand Marketing Executive Headliner Bozoma “Boz” Saint John has made a career of leading with audacity, authenticity, and cultural power. From C-suite roles at Netflix, Uber, and Apple Music to launching Eve by Boz and stepping into the spotlight on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, she’s proven that showing up fully—without shrinking—is a strategy, not a risk. In this fireside chat, Boz unpacks what it means to lead, create, and be seen in a world dominated by data and automation. She’ll explore why creativity and cultural fluency remain irreplaceable in the age of AI, how personal branding is evolving, and what it really takes to build visibility, influence, and power as a modern leader. In a world that reduces people to data points, showing up as your full self isn’t just personal—it’s your competitive edge.

Dan Shulman Former CEO, PayPal Headliner

Dan Shulman Former CEO, PayPal Headliner Dan Schulman is a fintech visionary committed to leveraging technology for financial inclusion. With a career in leadership roles at PayPal, American Express, and Priceline, he has championed the democratization of financial services. At PayPal, he led initiatives to expand digital payments access for underserved communities, prioritizing financial health. His leadership has garnered accolades like Fortune's Top 20 Businesspersons of the Year and a position on Glassdoor’s Top 50 CEOs list. Outside work, Dan advocates for social impact as a life member of the Council on Foreign Relations and co-chair of the World Economic Forum’s Steering Committee on Financial Inclusion. A martial arts enthusiast, he brings discipline to all his endeavors.

Lekan Olawoye Founder & CEO Obsidi®

Lekan Olawoye Founder & CEO Obsidi® Lekan Olawoye is a visionary entrepreneur, strategic leader, and problem solver at the forefront of workforce transformation. As the founder and CEO of Obsidi®—North America's largest Black tech and business platform—he is reshaping how companies attract, retain, and advance diverse talent. By leveraging AI-powered hiring solutions and digital innovation, he helps organizations build stronger, more inclusive teams and unlock untapped potential in the workforce. Under Lekan’s leadership, Obsidi® has evolved into a game-changing ecosystem for career acceleration, executive leadership development, and workforce innovation. Recognized as an EY Entrepreneur of The Year® 2024 Finalist and one of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40 (2021), he has a track record of building scalable solutions that drive business success and economic impact. A sought-after speaker and business strategist, Lekan’s insights have been featured in The Globe and Mail, TechCrunch, Toronto Star, CP24, and CIO.com. He continues to lead high-impact conversations on leadership, workforce strategy, and digital transformation, equipping executives with the tools to navigate change and drive meaningful results in a rapidly evolving business landscape.

Colleen Ward SVP Enterprise Delivery Office Scotiabank

Colleen Ward SVP Enterprise Delivery Office Scotiabank Colleen Ward was appointed Senior Vice President, Enterprise Delivery Office at Scotiabank in June 2025. In this role, Colleen leads the Enterprise Delivery Framework, agile enablement, and the Bank’s global portfolio of Technology projects and programs, ensuring strategic alignment, strong governance and efficient delivery across the enterprise. With over 25 years of experience, Colleen has led technology and business transformation teams across Canadian, American and global financial institutions. She was most recently Vice President, Platforms and Technology, Canadian Personal Banking at TD Bank, and previously worked at Chase Cards Canada, American Express and HSBC where she held progressively senior leadership roles. Colleen has a proven track record of driving operational efficiency, strategic value, and competitive advantage through innovation. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and Math from the University of Toronto. Passionate about Technology leadership development and inclusion, Colleen acts as an advisor to the Black Professionals in Tech Network, The Firehood, Black Hxouse and actively supports Women in Technology initiatives. She has also participated in the BFUTR Tech Summit every year since its inception, serving as the inaugural main stage and side stage host. Colleen is a recipient of the Harry Jerome Award, and the CILAR Aspiring Innovator of the Year Award. Outside of work, she enjoys cycling, hiking and practicing yoga.

Tim Clark Group Head and Chief Information Officer Scotiabank

Tim Clark Group Head and Chief Information Officer Scotiabank Tim Clark is Group Head and Chief Information Officer at Scotiabank. He is responsible for the Banks’ overall technology and innovation strategy, which includes leading the delivery and operation of all technology capabilities, platforms, and services globally, as well as technology risk and information security. Previous to Scotiabank, he was Executive Vice President & CIO Canadian Retail, Capital Markets and Corporate at TD Bank, and held various technology roles in Capital Markets and Investment Banking at Citigroup. Tim has a significant track record of delivering enterprise-wide technology transformation programs, with more than 30 years of global industry expertise across the retail, corporate, capital markets and commercial banking sectors in Canada, the UK, Australia and the US. He holds a BSc in Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence from the University of Edinburgh, Scotland.

Ted Paris EVP, TD Bank AMCB, Head of US Data and Analytics AMCB Analytics, Intelligence and AI TD

Ted Paris EVP, TD Bank AMCB, Head of US Data and Analytics AMCB Analytics, Intelligence and AI TD At TD, we believe that the future of tech is human-centered, data powered, and inclusive by design. Join (keynote) on the BFUTR mainstage to learn how future technologists can lead with impact in an evolving digital landscape. (Keynote Speaker') takes a deep dive into their leadership journey from technologist to executive, what it takes to shape the future of technology and how inclusive innovation drives business value for TD Bank.

Executive Mainstage Speakers

Dan Shulman Former CEO, PayPal Headliner

Lekan Olawoye Founder & CEO Obsidi®

Partner Lounge Speakers

Damian Jones VP Payments and Cash Management Scotiabank

Damian Jones VP Payments and Cash Management Scotiabank Damian is currently the Vice President and Head of Global Transaction Banking for Canadian Commercial Banking. In his role he’s responsible for providing strategic direction, leadership and oversight for the Global Transaction banking sales teams nationally. Damian has ~20 years of experience spanning both Canadian and International banking divisions Damian’s experience includes responsibilities in Corporate & Commercial banking, Global Transaction banking, capital markets, credit and enterprise risk management Damian holds a Master of Business Administration from Andrews University and Bachelor of Science from the University of the West Indies

Leon Ramsey Director, Inbound Fraud Scotiabank

Leon Ramsey Director, Inbound Fraud Scotiabank Leon Ramsey is the Director of Inbound Fraud working within Canadian Banking. With over 25 years of experience in sales, collections, originations, process improvement, fraud operations, and risk management, Leon is known for his strategic thinking, leadership qualities, and results-oriented approach.

Tsahai Irving-Walker Director AML, Retail, Business Banking Tangerine

Tsahai Irving-Walker Director AML, Retail, Business Banking Tangerine Tsahai Irving-Walker is a experienced leader in banking, specializing in Anti-Money Laundering (AML), Internal Controls, Group Operations, and Technology. Currently leading AML Risk for Retail, Business Banking and Tangerine, Tsahai has driven enterprise-wide transformation initiatives, including AML and Lean, aligning strategy with regulatory compliance and operational excellence. With a strong foundation in Program Management, Business Process Optimization, and Agile delivery, Tsahai brings a unique blend of technical insight and leadership. Holding a B.Sc. in Counseling and an M.Sc. in Human Resource Development, along with multiple industry certifications, Tsahai is passionate about continuous improvement, mentoring, and building a meaningful legacy.

Denrek Lewis Senior Manager, Inbound Fraud Scotiabank

Denrek Lewis Senior Manager, Inbound Fraud Scotiabank As a Senior Manager in Inbound Fraud, I've seen how fraud has evolved and the importance of having a strong team to educate and assist clients during their most vulnerable moments. Alongside this, automation in early fraud detection is essential. Over the past six years, leading diverse global teams and driving strategic initiatives has been more than just a job for me—it's a passion. As we continue to focus on client primacy, I'm committed to operational excellence, cost-effective solutions, and regulatory compliance. My team’s goal is to innovate and inspire change for a safer financial landscape. I embrace challenges with enthusiasm and am dedicated to fostering inclusive environments. By empowering my team and continuing to learn how to maximize our impact through automation, client education, and efficiencies, I strive to make security and innovation work together for real, actionable results.

Rohan Christie Managing Director, Global Head of Central Compliance Scotiabank

Rohan Christie Managing Director, Global Head of Central Compliance Scotiabank Rohan Christie has been with Scotiabank since August 2021, serving as the Managing Director, Global Head of Central Compliance & Testing for Global Banking and Markets and Group Treasury. In this role, Rohan oversees the strategic and tactical planning and central leadership of the Regulatory Compliance Management Program, and global oversight of the testing of these programs' effectiveness. His mandate includes direct teams in the United States and Canada, as well as dotted reports in the various regions where GBM operates. With over 20 years of experience in the financial services industry, Rohan has held roles in audit, compliance, and regulatory affairs at Commerzbank A.G. in New York, American Express, and CapitalOne Bank. He is also the Global Executive Champion for the Scotiabank Black Employee Network (SBEN), working closely with the global Co-Chairs to drive programs and events supporting the Bank’s ScotiaBond Inclusion strategy and objectives. Rohan graduated from Baruch College, Zicklin School of Business in New York with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accountancy. His personal life revolves around his family, often traveling, hosting backyard barbecues, or DJing the latest Reggae, Soca, or Latin tunes for family and friends.

Delphine Wapoutou Director, Centre of Excellence - Cultural Segments Scotiabank

Delphine Wapoutou Director, Centre of Excellence - Cultural Segments Scotiabank Delphine Wapoutou is the Director of the Centre of Excellence – Cultural Segments at Scotia Wealth Management. With over a decade of experience in financial services, she leads national strategies that deepen connections with diverse communities and elevate client engagement. Her work spans Scotiabank, CI Financial, and Sun Life Financial, where she has built impactful programs that empower teams to meet evolving client needs. Born in France to a French mother and Central African father, Delphine brings a global perspective and a deep commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Her biracial identity and international experiences fuel her passion for creating inclusive spaces where people and ideas thrive. Outside of work, Delphine is an avid traveler, reader, and outdoor enthusiast.

Lily Macream Senior Manager, Customer Care Consultants Scotiabank

Lily Macream Senior Manager, Customer Care Consultants Scotiabank Lily Macream is a senior financial services leader with expertise in customer experience, DEI strategy, and operational transformation. Known for championing inclusive leadership and mentoring diverse talent, she is passionate about the role of AI in creating more human-centered organizations. With experience in contact centers, international team leadership, and brand storytelling, Lily brings insightful perspectives to conversations on organizational change. Her dynamic presence inspires audiences to lead with purpose, empathy and innovation.

Melissa Dalmacio Director and Global Head, Campus Recruitment Scotiabank

Melissa Dalmacio Director and Global Head, Campus Recruitment Scotiabank Melissa Dalmacio is the Interim Director and Global Head, Campus Recruitment & Talent Development at Scotiabank. She previously worked at CPP Investments and Deloitte LLP and graduated from Western with a degree in Finance. Melissa enjoys reading and travel and is passionate about helping people reach their full potential.

Fabiana Montoya Director, Innovation Scotia Digital Factory

Fabiana Montoya Director, Innovation Scotia Digital Factory Fabiana has extensive expertise in helping organizations adapt to new technologies. She joined Scotiabank seven years ago and currently serves as the Director of Fintech Partnerships and Innovation. In this role, Fabiana collaborates across the bank to explore, test, and support the integration of fintech solutions that align with the bank’s strategic objectives. Previously, she contributed to shaping the vision for Scotiabank’s International Banking insurance transformation. Before banking, Fabiana in large organizations within the private (TD Insurance and Aviva) and the public sector (WSIB – Ontario Workers’ Compensation). Her background includes business transformation, project governance, and program delivery. She has held director-level roles focused on developing IT strategies, implementing Six Sigma programs, devising channel strategies, and launching digital solutions. Passionate about giving back to her community, Fabiana has devoted time in recent years to serving on the boards of non-profit organizations.

Michael Younder Senior Manager, Fintech Partnership Scotia Digital Factory

Michael Younder Senior Manager, Fintech Partnership Scotia Digital Factory Michael has been in roles focusing on products and partnerships for over 30 years, with emerging technology as the common denominator, and in positions that have taken him around the world. His career has also included running a technology startup himself. At Scotia Digital, Michael works with fintechs and grows partnerships with important organizations like DMZ – the worlds largest academic-based accelerator. The last decade has seen Michael also commit to volunteering, supporting both WoodGreen.org and the Art Gallery of Ontario, to name a few. Michael was born and raised in Toronto, where he lives with his family.

Shangeetha Jeyamanohar Senior Manager, Fintech Partnership Scotia Digital Factory

Shangeetha Jeyamanohar Senior Manager, Fintech Partnership Scotia Digital Factory Shangeetha Jeyamanohar’s experiences in financial services include managing strategic partnerships in and working with fintechs and other innovation ecosystem players in Canada. Key launches and partnerships she's worked on are CIBC's SmartBanking for Business, a platform connecting banking, accounting and payroll for SMBs and Scotia's relationship with Nova Credit, a cross-border credit reporting bureau enabling fair access to credit for newcomers. Advancing financial health and creating meaningful solutions for consumers and businesses is core to her values and motivates her work.

Colleen Ward SVP Enterprise Delivery Office Scotiabank

Pamela Ramnarain Global Director, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion, Global Operations & Technology Scotiabank

Pamela Ramnarain Global Director, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion, Global Operations & Technology Scotiabank Info coming soon

KL Wong SVP, Global Head of Resilience and Enterprise Architecture Scotiabank

KL Wong SVP, Global Head of Resilience and Enterprise Architecture Scotiabank KL Wong is the Senior Vice President, Global Head of Resilience & Enterprise Architecture at Scotiabank. Under his mandate, KL is driving the Bank’s Cloud-first innovative approach to Global Engineering and Architecture with a focus on technology modernization to support the transformation of our application portfolios, helping to deliver cutting-edge products and experiences for Scotiabank customers. An experienced startup leader and Technology Advisor at MaRS and NEXT Canada, KL previously held engineering leadership positions at a number of tech companies, including VP Engineering at Algorithmics, Proofpoint, Workbrain as well as Founding CTO at CubeRoute. Throughout his career, KL has maintained a passion for building and scaling software engineering teams. His focus on creating healthy, motivated, and diverse teams has enabled them to achieve strong results together.

Inci Akpinar SVP & Chief Information Officer, Canadian Banking Scotiabank

Inci Akpinar SVP & Chief Information Officer, Canadian Banking Scotiabank Info coming soon

Pamela Hillborn SVP Head of Design & Digital Product Scotia Digital

Pamela Hillborn SVP Head of Design & Digital Product Scotia Digital Pamela Hilborn has been designing digital consumer experiences for over 20 years, for both hardware and software products. Her profound interest in art, philosophy, and the study of human behaviour and culture have allowed her to create user-friendly and engaging technology experiences enjoyed by millions of people. As the Global Head of Design and Digital Product teams at Scotiabank, Pamela is charged with creating unparalleled and memorable digital experiences for customers through intuitive, consistent, and inclusive product design.

Melissa Mohun VP Digital Customer Experience Scotia Digital Scotia Digital

Melissa Mohun VP Digital Customer Experience Scotia Digital Scotia Digital Melissa is a founding leader of Scotiabank’s Digital Factory and a global digital executive. She’s launched top-rated products, built inclusive teams, and driven innovation from Canada to Asia Pacific. With deep expertise in strategy, accessibility, and transformation, she brings a purpose-driven lens to building impactful, equitable experiences that scale globally.

Long Long Wu SVP Global Regulatory Relations, Enterprise Compliance Programs and Compliance/AML PMO Scotiabank

Long Long Wu SVP Global Regulatory Relations, Enterprise Compliance Programs and Compliance/AML PMO Scotiabank Long-Long Wu is SVP at Scotiabank, where she leads Regulatory Relations, Enterprise Compliance Programs, and Compliance/AML Projects. She joined in 2021 to drive Compliance Transformation and previously spent 18 years at Bank of America in compliance and risk. She holds a BA in International Relations from Brown University.

Heather Arthur Vice President, Canada Contact Centres Scotiabank

Heather Arthur Vice President, Canada Contact Centres Scotiabank Heather Arthur is a dynamic customer experience and sales industry expert with over two decades of experience. Currently, as the Vice President, Global Client Experience Centre at Scotiabank, Heather leads a team of over 3000 wealth and banking advisors. Heather has been recognized as one of the Top 30 Contact Centre Leaders in CX to follow in 2025. Her leadership has earned her the 2022 Empowered Women Award from the International Association of Top Professionals and recognition as the 2020 Top Vice President of Communications. An award-winning professional and certified Neuro-Linguistics Programing practitioner, Heather is also the host of the Say YES Movement podcast, motivating and inspiring individuals and organizations to reach their full potential. As a sought-after speaker, Heather shares her insights on topics like customer service, employee engagement, corporate culture, and personal growth.

Shonniella Young Director, Continuous Improvement and Digital Enablement Scotiabank

Shonniella Young Director, Continuous Improvement and Digital Enablement Scotiabank Shonniella Young is a trailblazing leader in Financial Services, currently serving as the Director of Continuous Improvement & Digital Enablement at Scotiabank. With over 15 years of experience, she brings a strategic lens to transformation, innovation, and operational excellence across Global Client Experience Centres. In her role, Shonniella leads the C.O.D.E. (Continuous Optimization & Digital Enablement) team, driving initiatives that enhance client experience, employee enablement, and digital adoption. Her portfolio includes enterprise-wide continuous improvement strategies and digital channel optimization. Under her leadership, the team has delivered measurable capacity gains and operational efficiencies across Canadian and international markets. Shonniella is known for building high-performing, cross-functional teams and fostering a culture of innovation and accountability. She has played a key role in revamping agile frameworks, continuous improvement and performance enablement programs, using call study and other methodologies that directly impact NPS, FCR, and hold times. In 2023 her Learning team won the Gold Brandon Hall Excellence Award for Best Learning Measurement Program, Shonniella is also a passionate advocate for inclusivity. As a volunteer with her company’s Black Employee Network, she champions diversity while enjoying biking, poetry, spoken word, and cinema.

Theresa Robb Director and Head, GCEC Regulatory Governance and Internal Controls Scotiabank

Theresa Robb Director and Head, GCEC Regulatory Governance and Internal Controls Scotiabank Theresa Robb is Director & Head of Regulatory Governance and Internal Controls for Scotiabank’s Global Client Experience Centres. A proven leader with 29 years in financial services, she drives regulatory strategy, risk oversight, and operational excellence across global frontline operations, building strong governance through collaboration and influence.

Racquel Haywood Senior Manager, Leadership, Development and Coaching Scotiabank

Racquel Haywood Senior Manager, Leadership, Development and Coaching Scotiabank 17 years of experience in the banking industry, I've had the opportunity to lead, coach, and develop talent across both Canadian and International Banking (IB) sites. As an expert leadership coach, my passion lies in helping leaders unlock performance, navigate change, and build strong, resilient teams. I bring a proven track record of driving results through strategic coaching, frontline insight, and a deep understanding of operational excellence.

Debra Cousins VP International Operations Scotiabank

Debra Cousins VP International Operations Scotiabank Debra has 15+ years’ experience in designing operating models and governance frameworks for Retail, Corporate & Commercial, Trade Finance and Regulatory Programs. Currently, she is Vice President, International Operations, where she leads the model oversight and transformation for Retail and Business Banking Operations in 15 countries within Scotiabank’s International Banking footprint.

David Noel SVP & Chief Operating Officer, Canadian Banking Scotiabank

David Noel SVP & Chief Operating Officer, Canadian Banking Scotiabank Leads the Operations teams in the Canadian Banking division at Scotiabank. Extensive international leadership experience across Commercial, Business and Retail Banking, Risk Management, Compliance, Human Resources, Transformation, and Legal, with a proven track record of driving change and innovation on a global scale. Led large, high-performing teams across multiple markets, including serving as President & CEO of Scotiabank Jamaica, SVP for the Atlantic Region in Canada, and Country Head for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean. Additionally, served as Chief Compliance Officer, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary for a publicly listed financial group in Jamaica, navigating complex regulatory environments across banking, insurance, and securities. A seasoned board leader with experience serving on public and private company boards, as well as charitable organizations in Canada and the Caribbean. Also held leadership roles as President of the Jamaica and Barbados Bankers’ Association, influencing industry-wide policy and strategy. CFA Charterholder and Attorney–at–law.

Kesi Olafimihan VP Digital Growth Scotiabank

Kesi Olafimihan VP Digital Growth Scotiabank Kesi Olaf is a self-described digital & data evangelist with over 15 years of experience in product distribution strategy and innovation within the Canadian financial industry. His experience in the financial industry covers: Channel Sales Distribution, Marketing, Risk, Analytics, Innovation & Partnerships, Digital strategy & Business Profitability Kesi serves as Vice President & Head of Digital Channel Growth & performance at Scotiabank and is focused on driving the organization’s multi-year strategy in Digital transformation, sales, revenue & engagement. He holds an undergraduate degree in Computer Systems Engineering, a diploma in Market Research and Business Intelligence and an Executive MBA with a focus in Global Management & Innovation from the Telfer School of business at the University of Ottawa.

Linda Foggie SVP Global Real Estate, Global Operations Scotiabank

Linda Foggie SVP Global Real Estate, Global Operations Scotiabank Linda Foggie is the Senior Vice President and Global Head of Real Estate and Corporate Services at Scotiabank. A licensed architect with deep technical expertise and strategic acumen, Linda brings a distinguished track record of leadership across major financial institutions. Prior to joining Scotiabank, Linda served as the Global Head of Real Estate Operations at Citibank in New York City. She also led the U.S. real estate portfolio for Wells Fargo Bank, where she was instrumental in driving operational excellence and portfolio optimization. Linda’s academic credentials include a Bachelor of Architecture from Thomas Jefferson University, an MBA from Columbia University, and a Real Estate Development designation from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Beyond banking, Linda held senior leadership roles at CBRE, where she managed a substantial P&L and led multidisciplinary teams serving clients across diverse sectors of commercial real estate.

Gaurav Singh SVP Client Solutions & Retail Banking Tangerine

Gaurav Singh SVP Client Solutions & Retail Banking Tangerine Gaurav Singh is the SVP, Retail Products at Tangerine and accountable for the Deposits, Lending and Investments businesses. He has served in a variety of leadership capacities at Tangerine including serving as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Information Officer and has lead groups such as digital channels, operations, marketing and strategic planning. Gaurav serves on the Board of Governors for Ontario Tech University and is the chairperson of the Governance, Nominations and Human Resources committee. He also served on the Board of Directors for The Safehaven Project for Community Living which provides respite and residential care for children and adults with complex care needs. Gaurav obtained his MBA from the Ivey School of Business and completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto. He lives with his spouse and children in the Greater Toronto Area and has an avid interest in local arts, culture and sporting activities (Go Raptors!).

Michele Warner Senior Manager, Everyday Banking Tangerine - Engagement Centre

Michele Warner Senior Manager, Everyday Banking Tangerine - Engagement Centre A people leader, she leads the National Level 1 complaints, customer experience and outbound servicing teams to champion problem resolution.

Stephanie Yu VP Digital Product Tangerine

Stephanie Yu VP Digital Product Tangerine Stephanie Yu is VP of Digital Product & Experience at Tangerine leading strategy, design and delivery across digital channels and platforms. With deep experience in business and digital transformation- she is passionate about building inclusive teams and redefining what’s possible at the intersection of technology, product, and CX.

Tracy Marshall Director Product Enablement Tangerine

Tracy Marshall Director Product Enablement Tangerine I am a results-driven leader with a proven track record of building high-performing teams. I am a passionate and dedicated coach focused on engaging and empowering my team to deliver excellent customer experiences. I have had the opportunity to gain experience in front line sales and service, business and product development, IT, operations, risk management, (compliance and privacy), communications, transformation projects, crisis management and learning design and development.