An Exclusive Networking & Collaborative Platform for Germany's IT Leaders
The CIO Institute event series is heading to Frankfurt, Germany for a high-level one-day gathering for industry leaders to connect, collaborate, and discuss emerging trends and challenges.
The event will cover key themes such as AI integration, data-driven decision-making, and driving sustainable digital transformation. Attendees will explore critical topics like cybersecurity, cloud modernisation, and talent development strategies. With a focus on actionable insights, the event aims to empower leaders to drive innovation, growth, and resilience within their organisations.
Crafted by the CIOs, for the CIOs
This year's agenda for the CIO Institute Frankfurt is meticulously crafted with direct input from the Advisory Board & Senior Faculty members of CxO Institute, ensuring it reflects the real-world priorities of IT leaders across Europe. Designed to address the most pressing challenges and opportunities shaping the digital enterprise, every session is built to spark meaningful discussions, provide actionable insights, and drive tangible value.
Agenda
08:00 - 08:45
Registration & Networking Breakfast
08:45 - 09:35
Opening Panel
Leadership for the Next Generation: Developing Tomorrow's Leaders Today
- What characteristics define next-generation leaders in today's evolving workplace - How expectations of leadership are changing in response to societal and technological advancements - The role of emotional intelligence and adaptability in effective leadership - Explore current trends that influence the future of leadership such as remote working, digital transformation, DEI etc - The importance of mentorship programmes in developing leadership skills among young employees - Share predictions on how leadership will continue to evolve over the next decade
Michael Beaupre
Head of Cyber Security
Hays
Stefan Weber
Leiter IT Operations & Shared Services
DB Fernverkehr AG
Prashant Sharma
Director Hosting - Global Infrastructure
Fresenius Digital Technology GmbH
09:40 - 10:20
Strategy
The Next Wave of Enterprise AI - General vs Specialized AI Models
In 2024, AI has officially moved from a buzzword to a business essential. However, as leaders begin to see real value from their AI investments, one truth is emerging: not all AI is created equal. While general models offer broad capabilities, specialized models are designed to solve specific business challenges. Are you curious why specialized AI is delivering faster, more impactful results? Join us to explore the next wave of enterprise AI, spotlighting DeepL’s cutting-edge Language AI—providing highly accurate, human-like translations to businesses, organizations, and individuals across multiple languages that exemplify why specialized models are taking the lead.
Thai Son Ngo
Enterprise Account Executive
DeepL
10:25 - 11:05
Security
Securing the Future: Navigating Identity and Access Management in a Digital-First World
- How implementing a Zero Trust approach helps organizations strengthen security by continuously verifying access, reducing risk, and protecting sensitive data across hybrid environments. - Managing identity and access for a dispersed workforce and ensuring secure, seamless user experiences in a world of increased remote work and cloud adoption. - Exploring how AI and machine learning are transforming identity management by automating risk assessment, improving authentication, and enabling real-time threat detection to safeguard organizations.
Rob Otto
EMEA Field CTO
Ping Identity
11:10 - 11:50
Strategy
Unlocking IT Transparency with Unit Economics for Cloud and On-Prem Environments
- Discuss approaches to achieving holistic unit economics as a foundation for IT cost transparency. How precise tracking, allocation and reporting that aligns IT spending with business outcomes and value can shift the trajectory of a business. - Learn best practices for reducing cloud and infrastructure costs by integrating ITFM and FinOps, including resource right-sizing, usage monitoring, and leveraging reserved instances. - Explore strategies to enhance data-driven decisions and maximize ROI, ensuring IT investments are transparent, measurable, and aligned with long-term business goals.
David Harding
CEO
MagicOrange
Strategy
Next Level Operational Excellence: Harnessing Business Orchestration, Automation and AI
- How automation is streamlining operations, reducing manual intervention, and accelerating business processes to improve productivity and scalability. - Leveraging AI such as GenAI and private AI to provide actionable insights, and support smarter, faster decision-making across business functions. - Integrating business orchestration tools to align and optimize workflows, systems, and teams, ensuring smooth collaboration and enhanced agility in dynamic environments.
André Wohlfart
Account Executive Life Sciences
Appian
11:55 - 12:35
Strategy
The Connections in your Data Are the Key to Game-Changing Innovation
Enterprises operate as a connected whole, and they engage with a world that is intricately connected. Graph databases are built on the premise that much of the world shows up as networks and as hierarchies rather than as tables, and that immense value can arise when applications are built with these connections in mind. Discover why many of the world’s leading companies are using graph technology to accelerate innovation—including Siemens, BASF, Airbus, Volkswagen, Citi, Intel, BT, Microsoft, and many more. We will also explore a leading trend at the forefront of AI: how knowledge graphs used alongside language models and vector embeddings can significantly improve accuracy, explainability, and AI governance. Look forward to exploring these topics, and learning how you can apply them to your most pressing problems and opportunities.
Philip Rathle
CTO
Neo4J
12:35 - 13:25
Networking Lunch
13:25 - 14:05
Strategy
Driving Digital Transformation and Navigating Organisational Change for the Future
- Exploring how digital transformation reshapes business operations and drives innovation across industries - Examining the role of leadership in guiding organizations through digital transformation and managing change - Identifying key challenges and strategies for sustaining long-term success in a digitally-driven business environment
Maria Schindler
Head of IT Germany & Austria
De'Longhi Group
Hristiyan Lazarov
Chief Information Security Officer
FWU
Michael Beaupre
Head of Cyber Security
Hays
14:10 - 14:50
Strategy
Maximizing the Cloud: Strategies for Optimization, Migration, and Compliance in Digital Transformation
- Optimising cloud costs by implementing cost management strategies and automation tools to maximise ROI during cloud migration and ongoing operations - Enhancing performance and scalability by leveraging cloud-native tools and architectures to drive agility, resilience, and operational efficiency in cloud environments - Balancing innovation with compliance while ensuring robust security, compliance, and governance frameworks are in place to mitigate risks during cloud migration and support long-term digital transformation success
Prashant Sharma
Director Hosting - Global Infrastructure
Fresenius Digital Technology GmbH
14:55 - 15:35
Security
Data Privacy and Security: Navigating Risk in the Data-Driven Age
- Explore the strategies that data leaders must take to secure their enterprises in the data-driven age - Developing a comprehensive data security and privacy strategy fit for a multi-cloud and hybrid environments - Establishing policies and procedures for data access and use - Educating employees on data security best practices & ensuring compliance
Michael Beaupre
Head of Cyber Security
Hays
15:40 - 16:15
Closing Session
Management Challenges in Turbulent Times
- Explore how agile leadership principles enable leaders to respond quickly to change, fostering a culture of flexibility and iterative decision-making during times of uncertainty - Discuss how empowering teams with agile frameworks can enhance collaboration, innovation, and responsiveness to market shifts, ensuring organizations remain competitive in unpredictable environments - Address how agile working enables organizations to continuously adapt to changing circumstances, allowing businesses to embrace disruption and stay resilient in the face of uncertainty
Stefan Weber
Leiter IT Operations & Shared Services
DB Fernverkehr AG
Event Speakers
Michael Beaupre
Head of Cyber Security
Hays
With over 25 years of experience in IT and cybersecurity, Michael is a seasoned leader committed to building strong communities, fostering top talent, and creating safe digital environments for the future. His dedication to innovation and collaboration makes him the perfect fit to lead this prestigious event.
Thai Son Ngo
Enterprise Account Executive
DeepL
With over 15 years of experience in e-commerce and sales, Thai Son has played a key role in DeepL’s development and AI advancements since 2020. His expertise lies in understanding client needs and leveraging AI-powered language solutions to enhance communication and operational efficiency. Having supported multiple fast-growing startups, he is at the forefront of bridging AI innovation with real-world business applications.
Rob Otto
EMEA Field CTO
Ping Identity
With 25 years of experience in enterprise software and services, Rob brings deep expertise in Information Security and Identity Management across Telecommunications, Financial Services, and the Public Sector. His insights will be invaluable for IT leaders looking to navigate the evolving digital landscape with low-code automation and secure enterprise solutions.
David Harding
CEO
MagicOrange
With over two decades of experience in financial services, he has held leadership roles across institutional securities, wealth & investment management, and technology infrastructure, including as International COO for Technology at Morgan Stanley. A recognized leader in cost transparency, benchmarking, and business transformation, David has driven accountability, efficiency, and strategic decision-making for global enterprises. His expertise in expense management and financial innovation continues to shape the future of IT finance and technology investments.
André Wohlfart
Account Executive Life Sciences
Appian
With a passion for helping executives and their teams make smarter decisions, André specialises in reducing friction in business processes to enable seamless digital transformation. His expertise empowers global organisations to enhance performance, streamline operations, and tackle their most critical priorities.
Philip Rathle
CTO
Neo4J
A seasoned product & technology executive, Philip has over 25 years of experience in enterprise data, previously leading Neo4j’s product transformation from a sub-$1M ARR on-prem database to a $100M+ ARR cloud-based portfolio. He is a pioneer in customer data integration and master data management, with deep expertise in database architecture, data modeling, and large-scale information processing. Named among the ‘Technology Decision Makers From the World's Most Influential Companies’ by the Wall Street Journal in 2025, Philip’s insights into graph databases and data-driven innovation will be invaluable for IT leaders.
Maria Schindler
Head of IT Germany & Austria
De'Longhi Group
A process improvement leader and IT transformation expert, Maria brings over 15 years of experience in managing IT processes and programs. She has a proven track record of delivering successful transformation initiatives, redefining processes, and establishing new SLAs to enhance operational efficiency. Her expertise in developing service management frameworks, driving IT change, and leveraging data for strategic decision-making makes her a key voice in shaping the future of IT leadership.
Hristiyan Lazarov
Chief Information Security Officer
FWU
A seasoned cybersecurity leader with over 15 years of experience, Hristiyan has a proven track record in IT security, business leadership, and operational excellence. Recognised as Technical Engineer of the Year (2009) and Employee of the Year (2010), he has successfully driven security innovation, network protection strategies, and SOC management across global enterprises. Known for his progressive and results-driven approach, Hristiyan specialises in optimising cybersecurity operations, reducing risks, and enabling organisations to embrace digital transformation securely. His insights into navigating change while maintaining robust security will be invaluable for IT leaders shaping the future of their organisations.
Prashant Sharma
Director Hosting - Global Infrastructure
Fresenius Digital Technology GmbH
With extensive expertise in IT service management and cloud transformation, Prashant has been instrumental in developing robust IT infrastructures, driving IT transformation, and leading cloud migrations at Fresenius Digital Technology. His strategic vision integrates service excellence, innovation, and operational agility, ensuring that organisations remain resilient in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
Stefan Weber
Leiter IT Operations & Shared Services
DB Fernverkehr AG
As a seasoned professional with extensive experience across diverse industries, Stefan brings a unique perspective to leadership, strategy, and IT operations. His approach emphasizes the importance of people, communication, and mindset in driving successful projects, fostering innovation, and shaping high-performing organizations.
Why Attend?
UNRIVALLED CONNECTIONS
Engage directly with IT leaders and industry experts who can provide valuable insights and solutions to your strategic challenges.
CUSTOMISED LEARNING PATHS
Choose the sessions, panels, and discussions that best align with your unique goals, enabling targeted and impactful networking.
TANGIBLE VALUE
Gain actionable insights and connections that translate directly into strategic initiatives and measurable progress for your organisation.
From a lot of events and conferences I’ve been to, the caliber of attendees is great. Everyone has valuable opinions,...
Savannah Devillez
Enterprise Data Capability Lead, PepsiCo
I first came across the CxO Institute through one of the events that I was invited to in London. Had...
Dave Davis
Senior Technical Director, ST Engineering iDirect
The value to our organization for sponsoring an event like this is that it drives awareness for one. It allows...
Gemma Phillips
UK&I Sales
Location
Hilton Frankfurt City Centre
Hilton Frankfurt City Centre offers the perfect blend of elegance, modern convenience, and prime location. Set in the heart of the city, the hotel provides an exceptional backdrop for the CIO Institute Frankfurt - boasting sophisticated meeting spaces, world-class service, and seamless access to business hubs and cultural landmarks.
A Community of Leaders
The CxO Institute is the premier platform for IT leaders to tackle the most pressing challenges facing their organisations. Designed with delegates in mind, our events bring together CIOs, senior IT leaders, and other key decision-makers to explore cutting-edge solutions, drive collaboration, and achieve impactful outcomes.
Event Chair
Michael Beaupre, Head of Cyber Security
A seasoned IT and cyber security leader with over 25 years of experience building strategic partnerships to address the ever-evolving challenges of cyber threats. Passionate about bridging the cyber security skills gap, Michael is dedicated to fostering strong communities and nurturing talent to create a safer digital world.
As a father of four, Michael's commitment to cyber security extends beyond his professional pursuits; he envisions a digital future where companies and institutions are protected, enabling the next generation to thrive. Currently with Hays, Michael collaborates with organisations to recruit, develop, and support cyber security talent, unlocking business opportunities, and ensuring a safe environment for all.
Speakers
Featured Attendees
Delegates in Attendance
The list below showcases the esteemed IT leaders, executives, and decision-makers attending the event. These are the key individuals driving innovation, transformation, and strategy within their organisations.
To view the full list of delegates, please scroll and swipe down through til the end.
Engage with Top IT Decision Makers
The CxO Institute provides an exclusive platform for sponsors to connect with senior IT decision-makers actively seeking solutions to their most pressing challenges. Our events bring together CIOs, senior IT, and other key technology leaders, offering a unique opportunity to engage, build relationships, and position your brand as a trusted partner.
Official Partners
OFFICIAL CATEGORY PARTNER
DeepL
A leading AI-powered translation company known for its exceptional accuracy and natural-sounding translations. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Cologne, Germany, DeepL leverages advanced neural network technology to deliver high-quality translations across multiple languages. Trusted by businesses, professionals, and individuals worldwide, DeepL is redefining the standard for machine translation with a strong focus on precision, privacy, and continuous innovation.
OFFICIAL CATEGORY PARTNER
Ping Identity
Ping Identity is a leading provider of intelligent identity solutions for the enterprise. Founded in 2002 and headquartered in Denver, Colorado, Ping helps organisations secure and streamline user access across digital environments. With a focus on Zero Trust and Identity-First Security, its platform supports single sign-on (SSO), multi-factor authentication (MFA), identity governance, and more. Trusted by large enterprises and government agencies worldwide, Ping Identity enables seamless and secure user experiences while protecting sensitive data and systems.
INSIGHT PARTNER
INSIGHT PARTNER
ADVISORY PARTNER
SR. ENGAGEMENT PARTNER
SR. ENGAGEMENT PARTNER
SR. ENGAGEMENT PARTNER
SR. ENGAGEMENT PARTNER
ENGAGEMENT PARTNER
ENGAGEMENT PARTNER
Why Sponsor?
LEAD GENERATION
Connect with Top IT and Senior Executives in a curated environment designed for meaningful conversations and long-term partnerships.
THOUGHT LEADERSHIP
Showcase Thought Leadership through panel discussions, round tables, and tailored engagements that demonstrate your brand's expertise.
REPORTS & INSIGHTS
Gain valuable market insights by understanding the key challenges and priorities shaping IT investments and decision-making.
BRAND AWARENESS
Accelerate business growth by positioning your brand, solutions, and services in front of decision-makers and budget-holders with active projects and procurement needs.
Sponsorship Packages
Hilton Frankfurt City Centre: A Premier Destination for CIO Institute
Located in the heart of Frankfurt, just moments from the city’s financial district and cultural landmarks, Hilton Frankfurt City Centre provides an exceptional setting for CIO Institute Frankfurt. Surrounded by lush parkland and city skyline views, this contemporary venue combines sleek design with premium amenities—offering an inspiring space for senior IT leaders to engage in strategic dialogue, share insights, and forge lasting connections.
Designed to support collaboration and innovation, the hotel features cutting-edge meeting facilities, high-speed connectivity, and seamless access to major transport links. Its blend of comfort, convenience, and cosmopolitan flair makes it the ideal environment for high-level executive engagement—ensuring an experience that is as impactful as it is memorable.
An Exclusive Venue for the Top Leaders in IT
Carefully selected to match the prestige of its attendees, this venue offers a refined and high-impact environment designed for IT leaders, innovators, and decision-makers.
Seamless Accessibility with VIP Transport
Enjoy a hassle-free arrival with private car transfers, valet services, and priority access, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience from start to finish.
A Sophisticated Setting for Strategic Discussions
With dedicated spaces for networking and discussions, the venue fosters valuable connections and strategic conversations in an exclusive setting.
VIP Car Service
Arrive in style with our chauffeured executive transport, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey. With priority access and reserved drop-off, you’ll experience the ultimate convenience from door to venue.
Luxury Hospitality & Dining
Indulge in chef-curated meals, premium refreshments, and exquisite catering throughout the event. Our carefully selected menu ensures a world-class dining experience, perfect for refined networking in a relaxed, elegant atmosphere.
Dedicated Concierge & Support
Enjoy a personalised service experience, with our dedicated concierge team assisting with event details, special requests, and VIP accommodations to ensure a smooth and productive visit.
Find the Venue
Get in Touch
Ready to connect with top IT decision-makers and elevate your brand? Whether you're looking to sponsor, attend, or learn more about our exclusive events, we're here to help.
More Ways to Connect
Select an option below to find the right opportunity and become part of the CxO Institute experience.