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Sarath Shyam
Thriving in the Digital Fast Lane
Not too long ago, buying a new gadget or signing up for a digital service felt like stepping into the future. Now? Blink, and the future has already changed. Technology is moving at breakneck speed, transforming how we work, shop, and connect. It’s thrilling—but also a little overwhelming.
Artificial intelligence is rewriting the rules of business, cloud computing is reshaping operations, and cybersecurity is a constant game of cat and mouse. While innovation brings endless opportunities, it also introduces new challenges. How do businesses stay ahead without getting
lost in the chaos? How do leaders balance progress with responsibility?
In this issue of Digital First Magazine, we dive into these pressing questions. Our cover story features Kurt Shenk, assurance partner at RSM US LLP and national technology sector leader. With over 16 years of experience in audit and accounting, Kurt has helped technology companies navigate economic shifts, regulatory changes, and financial complexities. His insights on market trends and risk management are a must-read for any business leader looking to stay ahead.
Beyond the cover story, we explore AIdriven business models, digital trust, and the evolving role of technology in shaping industries. We spotlight forward-thinking companies that are setting the pace for digital transformation and share expert strategies on staying competitive in an everchanging landscape.
One thing is certain—adaptability is no longer optional. Whether you’re leading a tech startup, managing digital strategies, or just trying to keep up with the latest innovations, this edition is packed with valuable insights to help you navigate the digital fast lane.
Join us in the conversation. Share your thoughts, explore new ideas, and let’s shape the future of technology together.
Diane Cowin, SVP Director Global Transit – Growth Markets / ESG, AECOM
Unlocking Growth & Innovation for Retail & Consumer Clients
Chris Daniel, Managing Director, Protiviti
COVER STORY
KURT SHENK
ENTERPRISE TECHNOLOGY SECTOR LEADER, RSM US
Shaping Tomorrow’s Tech Visionaries
Kurt Shenk is an assurance partner at RSM US LLP and national technology sector leader, overseeing assurance, tax, and consulting for the technology industry. As a partner in RSM’s audit practice, Kurt has more than 16 years of audit and accounting experience, serving clients within the technology, media, telecom industry. Kurt was in the inaugural class of RSM’s Industry Eminence Program, which equips senior analysts to understand and communicate economic and business trends shaping middle market businesses.
Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Kurt shared his professional trajectory in accounting and finance, insights into the role of accounting and auditing professionals in shaping the future of business and technology, the secret mantra behind his success, personal hobbies and interests, future plans, words of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.
What inspired you to pursue a career in accounting and auditing, and how have you seen the field evolve over time?
My grandfather was an accountant, so I learned about accounting and finance from an early age. I was also inspired by my first accounting professor who described accounting as the “language of business,” which always stuck with me. Over time, I’ve seen the field evolve with the integration of software, automation, and data analytics, making tasks more efficient and allowing for deeper insights.
What do you love the most about your current role?
I primarily serve companies within the technology, media, and telecom industry, ranging in size from startups to mature public companies. I enjoy building relationships with my clients and being a part of their journey, as well as collaborating on cross-functional teams to deliver solutions to our clients. Additionally, in my role as the RSM Technology Sector Leader, I take pride in developing and implementing RSM’s strategic initiatives to support and empower middle market
I ENJOY HELPING MY TEAM SET AND ACHIEVE THEIR CAREER GOALS, AS I BELIEVE THAT IS ONE OF THE MOST REWARDING OPPORTUNITIES IN LEADERSHIP – PRODUCING MORE LEADERS
technology companies. This includes identifying growth opportunities, fostering innovation, and ensuring these companies have the resources and guidance needed to thrive in a competitive market.
What role do you believe accounting and auditing professionals will play in shaping the future of business and technology, and how can they prepare for this shift?
Accounting and auditing professionals will play a crucial role in providing data-based insights and
becoming skilled advisors who guide business strategy. As RSM advances in its digital journey, we’re integrating technologies like artificial intelligence to deliver smarter, more efficient solutions for clients and equip our talent with the skills to thrive in a digital landscape.
How do you approach leadership and team management, and what qualities do you believe are essential for effective leadership?
My approach is to lead by example, maintain open communication, and build trust. I enjoy helping my team set and achieve their career goals, as I believe that is one of the most rewarding opportunities in leadership –producing more leaders.
Who has been a significant influence or mentor in your career, and how have they helped shape your professional journey?
Over the years, I’ve been influenced by many great leaders. I’ve had the privilege to participate in leadership development programs and mastermind groups, which have helped me learn from leaders in different industries, providing me with valuable perspective and counsel on a range of topics. Another valuable experience for me was being selected as part of the inaugural class within RSM’s industry eminence program, to understand, forecast and communicate economic, business and technology trends shaping the industries RSM serves. Within this program, I helped the firm advise technology clients on conditions impacting middle market leaders.
STAY CURRENT WITH INDUSTRY TRENDS AND TECHNOLOGY, AS THE LANDSCAPE IS RAPIDLY EVOLVING AND BEING ADAPTABLE IS ESSENTIAL
Throughout your career, you have been a recipient of prestigious awards and accolades including one of Forbes’ Top 200 CPAs and most recently, one of Top 25 Technology Consultants and Leaders in 2025. Our readers would love to know the secret sauce behind your success.
I have had the privilege of working with so many great clients and colleagues over the years. Continuous learning, embracing change, giving back to the community, and maintaining resilience in the face of challenges have been crucial in shaping my career. Additionally, surrounding myself with a talented team has been instrumental in driving innovation and achieving success.
What are some of your passions outside of work? What do you like to do in your time off?
Outside of work, I enjoy outdoor adventures and sports, including hiking and golf. I also love exploring new cities and cultures through travel.
Which technology are you investing in now to prepare for the future?
As a firm, one of the areas we have invested in is RSM Luca, our dynamic digital audit ecosystem, enabling our people to deliver business insights for our clients. This ecosystem is a powerful combination of innovative tools, efficient processes, and our proprietary risk-based audit methodology. RSM Luca supports audit execution and our professionals’ understanding of our client’s business and industry, resulting in a highquality digital audit tailored to our clients.
What are your long-term career aspirations, and how do you see yourself evolving as a leader over the next five years?
Long-term, I want my career to reflect a commitment to excellence and integrity. In the near term, one of the privileges I have is to mentor the next generation of leaders. RSM takes a forward-thinking and innovative approach to client service, and I would welcome the opportunity to meet with anyone interested in joining the firm.
What advice would you give to individuals looking to break into the accounting and auditing field, or transition into a leadership role?
My primary advice to those interested in the field of accounting and auditing is to focus on building a solid foundation of technical skills through education and practical experience. Seek internships or entry-level positions that provide exposure to various aspects of the field. Stay current with industry trends and technology, as the landscape is rapidly evolving and being adaptable is essential. For individuals aspiring to transition into a leadership role, I recommend developing effective communication and interpersonal skills. Cultivate relationships and network within your organization and the industry, as leadership is often about influence and collaboration. Look for mentorship opportunities, both as a mentee and as a mentor, to gain insights and share knowledge. Lastly, embrace continuous learning and be open to feedback, as humility, personal growth, and a willingness to adapt are key components of effective leadership.
Hi Mercedes. Please tell us about your background and areas of interest.
I have over two decades of expertise in technology, human resources, portfolio management, financial services and social impact consulting. My passion lies in driving growth, transformation, innovation, and inclusion to create a better world of work.
I was born in Mexico City and raised in Acapulco. I was a national tennis champion of Mexico and ranked in the top 30 globally as a junior—all while self-teaching high school. I earned a BA in International Studies from
Boston College and an MA in the same field at the University of Sydney.
I’m married, a mom of two boys, and have two dogs who rule our home. I’m a geek at heart, captivated by the complexity of the human experience, and aim to collect as many joyful moments as possible.
What do you love most about what you do, and why?
The opportunity to learn and collaborate with a diverse range of stakeholders across
The opportunity to learn and collaborate with a diverse range of stakeholders across the enterprise, all working towards a common goal—adding real value to our employees
Mercedes D. Sullivan is VP, Storefront Architect, for the People Team at TIAA, leading AI-enabled employee experiences. Previously, she was VP, Head of People Team PMO, overseeing HR productization and agile transformation. Before TIAA, she ledprogramdeliveryatSymphonicStrategies and was Head of Financial Services Custom Research at CEB (now Gartner), advising global financial institutions. A former national tennis champion from Mexico, Mercedes attended Boston College on a tennis scholarship and holds degrees in International Studies from Boston College andtheUniversityofSydney.Sheisdedicated to fostering thriving, inclusive teams.
Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Mercedes shared her professional trajectory, insights on the role of AI and automation in the HR storefront, the secret mantra behind her success, future plans, words of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.
While I believe hard work is essential, I also think it’s important to acknowledge the significant role luck and circumstances play in success, and not overlook the advantages that have benefitted me along the way
the enterprise, all working towards a common goal—adding real value to our employees. I truly believe I have the coolest job in the world. Every day, I get to apply design thinking to create unique employee experiences, breaking down the silos that once defined how we operated as an organization and push ourselves to think differently about how to better deliver collectively. Plus, the chance to test AI-enabled solutions feels like being a kid in a candy store; the new possibilities of what we can do now are so exciting!
How do you stay up-to-date with emerging trends and technologies in HR tech, and what innovations are you most excited about incorporating into the storefront?
I block at least two hours a week for formal learning— webinars, podcasts, or events. This time is non-negotiable on my calendar. I’m also active on LinkedIn, following a range of HR practitioners, thought leaders, vendors, and analysts, including voices I might not always agree with. It helps me stay challenged and open-minded. I connect regularly with a small group of colleagues and others in similar situations, and I also look outside the HR space for inspiration; you never know what might translate effectively into HR until you try it. And I love sharing my lessons learned back with the community – at the end of the day, we are all playing for the same team with the goal of making the world of work better for all.
As for the storefront, I am most excited about the possibility of a scalable, personalized, inclusive AI-enabled experience for our associates.
What role do you see AI and automation playing in the HR storefront, and how do you envision it enhancing the employee experience?
Imagine a bot or app where employees can ask any question without worrying if it’s an IT, HR, finance, or facilities issue. They get personalized answers and, if it can’t help, instantly routes the question to the right human to assist. It could also push reminders like, “Change your password,” “Your training is overdue,” or “Your employee is celebrating an anniversary.”
Even better, what if it reminds you to take PTO because you haven’t rested or suggests a break when you’ve been in nonstop meetings? Finally, I’m also exploring how AI can help tailor communication to fit different needs—whether you’re an introvert, extrovert, neurodivergent, or prefer a different language—so everyone can be met where they are.
How can we balance the need for diversity and inclusion with the need for meritocracy and excellence in the tech field?
I believe the question assumes a false dichotomy between diversity/inclusion and meritocracy/ excellence. In reality, inclusive hiring practices that attract a diverse pool of candidates lead to a more competitive and excellent team. By casting a wider net, removing biases, and reflecting our target market, we’ll find the best fit for our team and provide the most value to our customers. This approach drives innovation, understanding, and high performance – it’s not a trade-off, but a win-win.
You were recently recognized as one of the Top 50 Women Leaders of Charlotte for 2024. Our readers would love to know the secret behind your success.
Many skills that have helped me become resilient and successful came from my athletic days, like setting clear goals and focusing on the steps to achieve them. I don’t take myself too seriously and believe in going for my dreams – you either win or learn. I’ve also been incredibly lucky, born into a loving family, given opportunities to migrate, and meeting amazing people who’ve helped me grow. While I believe hard work is essential, I also think it’s important to acknowledge the significant role luck and circumstances play in success, and not overlook the advantages that have benefitted me along the way.
If you could have a one-hour meeting with someone famous who is alive, who would it be and why?
José ‘Pepe’ Mujica, the former president of Uruguay. Described as the ‘world’s humblest head of state,’ I deeply admire how he reached the highest level of office while remaining completely true to himself, living an austere lifestyle and donating most of his salary to charity. While I may not agree with all of his policies, I consider him a role model for his authentic, heart-led leadership and dedication to the greater good. His unwavering commitment to social justice and willingness to speak truth to power are truly inspiring, and I would love to learn more about his experiences and philosophies firsthand.
Is there a particular person you are grateful for who helped get you to where you are?
It truly takes a village – but mostly my loving parents that pushed me to believe in myself and
I lead by example and make it a formal goal for everyone to take all their PTO, with at least two consecutive weeks off each year. You simply can’t win and grow without rest
entertained all my wild ideas even when they were not the norm; like skipping high school to play tennis with the promise that I would go back to school later. But here I must also include all the people that have told me ‘you are too___ and will not make it” – nothing like a ‘no’ to fuel you forward.
How do you keep your mind healthy and stay resilient? And how do you motivate your team?
My top priority is wholistic well-being. I start each day with a walk and quality time with my husband, ensuring I get enough sleep, exercise, and introspection to process my emotions and grow. I’ve added meditation and hired a coach to stay on track. With my team, I ensure we have clear common goals and empathize managing energy, not time. I encourage them to identify their life priorities and align their time accordingly. Most importantly, I remind them that everything they need is already within them – I just hold up a mirror to reflect that truth. And, I lead by example and make it a formal goal for everyone to take all their PTO, with at
least two consecutive weeks off each year. You simply can’t win and grow without rest.
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
I am not sure where, but I am solving messy tech-enabled problems aimed at bettering the human experience.
What advice would you give to women starting out on their career in the tech industry?
Don’t count yourself out without giving it a fair shot. I never thought I’d work in tech because “I’m not techie,” but I stumbled into it as a Business Analyst and fell in love with the industry. I started with practically zero tech background and my flip phone, but soon found my niche and thrived. I knew I’d never be the most technical person, so I crafted a plan to move to HR tech and become an expert in delivery. Give yourself that chance – you never know what you’re capable of until you try. And, the world needs your voice and representation more than ever!
2025
BenefitHub Bringing Big Benefits to Every Workplace
In 1999, BenefitHub was founded with a simple yet powerful idea: employees at small companies should have access to the same perks as those working for Fortune 500 giants. To make that happen, the company brought together over 100,000 employees from hundreds of small businesses and negotiated discounts on their behalf. Over the years, BenefitHub expanded its offerings to include voluntary benefits, rewards, cash back, a browser extension, and gift cards—transforming the way employees access workplace perks.
By the time BenefitHub reached one million users, it had already surpassed nearly every employer in terms of available deals and savings—second only to Walmart, which later became a client. Today, the company serves 17,000 clients across 22 countries, including
five of the ten largest U.S.-based employers. Remarkably, 36% of the Fortune 500 now rely on BenefitHub to handle their non-core benefits.
At its core, BenefitHub believes that happy employees build thriving workplaces. “Our mission is to enhance employees’ daily lives by helping organizations create rewarding and engaging workplace experiences,” says Jeffrey Litvack, CEO of BenefitHub. The company’s all-in-one employee discount and voluntary benefits platform has already saved employees over $75 million in 2024 alone— and an estimated $2 billion since its inception. These savings make a real difference, helping employees manage the rising cost of living while making room for memorable experiences, from dream vacations to essential insurance coverage.
Jeffrey Litvack, CEO of BenefitHub
BenefitHub’s success is rooted in its core values:
Accessibility: Making benefits available to employees, no matter where they work.
Exceptional Value: Delivering real, meaningful savings to both employers and employees.
Innovation: Continuously evolving to meet changing workplace needs.
Service Excellence: Providing top-tier support at every step.
Integrity and Respect: Building lasting relationships based on trust and care.
As workplaces continue to evolve, so does BenefitHub. “We stay ahead of the trends by maintaining a technology-first approach and constantly improving our offerings,” Litvack explains. By combining innovation with a relentless focus on service excellence, BenefitHub remains at the forefront of employee benefits—helping businesses of all sizes build a more rewarding workplace for their teams.
The Power of Innovation in Employee Benefits
When BenefitHub first launched an online perks solution for employers, it was a game-changer in the industry. At a time when companies had to manually manage their own deals and offerings, BenefitHub recognized the need for a more efficient and scalable approach. By pioneering
a technology-first model, the company not only simplified access to non-core benefits but also alleviated the burden on HR teams.
As one of the early adopters of Software-asa-Service (SaaS), BenefitHub leveraged cloud technology and multi-tenant platform design to create a seamless, highly personalized experience for employees. “Our goal has always been to deliver a tailored customer experience through an innovative and efficient platform,” says Litvack. This approach ensures that employees, whether working remotely, in hybrid setups, or in-office, can access their benefits effortlessly.
The strong relationships BenefitHub has built over the past 25 years continue to give the company a competitive edge. Its exclusive access to top-tier offerings sets it apart in the market, allowing it to deliver highly soughtafter perks and benefits. By providing a onestop-shop experience, BenefitHub ensures that employees receive the best deals and services without unnecessary complexity.
A testament to its commitment to innovation is the development of the Broker Wizard—an application that enables broker partners to create fully customized sites for their clients within minutes. Additionally, its insurance quoting feature allows users to compare home and auto insurance rates from multiple leading providers in seconds, eliminating the hassle of navigating multiple platforms.
Artificial intelligence and advanced search technologies further enhance the platform, delivering personalized user experiences based on activity and preference profiles. This AIdriven approach ensures that employees can quickly find relevant offerings tailored to their
unique needs, making their experience smoother and more rewarding.
Looking ahead, BenefitHub has ambitious technology initiatives planned over the next three years. These include expanding its mobile application, increasing AI-driven personalization, and enhancing platform integrations to provide deeper, richer content through a growing network of partners. As the workforce becomes increasingly multi-generational, the company is also focused on delivering a more diverse and flexible user experience.
One of its key clients, a multinational telecommunications company, highlights the impact of these innovations: “Our employees love BenefitHub because they can save money and use the site on their mobile devices, making the most of the discounts and offers even when they are not in the office.”
Personalization at the Heart of Benefits
Personalization isn’t just a buzzword in the voluntary benefits industry—it’s an expectation. A striking 78% of employees say that personalized benefits are important, and BenefitHub has taken this to heart.
Harnessing the power of artificial intelligence, the company offers personalized recommendations based on user preferences and online behavior. “Similar to Amazon’s intelligent search functionality, our AI-powered assistants help employees navigate and select benefits tailored to their specific needs,” explains Litvack. While implementing these advanced technologies presents challenges, BenefitHub firmly believes they represent the future of the industry and will continue to enhance the user experience.
Continuous innovation is embedded in the company’s DNA. Its commitment to improving mobile capabilities and platform accessibility ensures that employees can access their benefits anytime, anywhere. A constant feedback loop with clients and users allows BenefitHub to quickly adapt, rolling out new products and features that address evolving workplace needs.
Beyond technology, what truly sets BenefitHub apart is its approach to client partnerships. “We don’t just serve our clients— we grow with them,” says Litvack. The platform’s flexibility allows businesses to tailor
their offerings to best suit their workforce. From custom-branded websites to specialized merchant categories, BenefitHub provides an adaptable experience that maximizes impact.
Seamless integration is another cornerstone of the platform. BenefitHub’s integration framework enables frictionless collaboration with partners, merchants, and customers, ensuring that benefits programs align effortlessly with existing HR ecosystems.
The scale of BenefitHub’s offerings is unparalleled. With thousands of local and national discounts, employees can save on
Whether it’s supporting multinational corporations or local businesses, BenefitHub’s reach ensures that employees worldwide can enjoy high-quality benefits and savings
everything from everyday essentials to once-ina-lifetime experiences. The voluntary benefits portfolio is equally robust, covering home, auto, life, renters, and pet insurance. On average, members who use BenefitHub for home and auto insurance save $1,543—demonstrating the realworld impact of these offerings.
With a presence in over 22 countries, BenefitHub provides a truly global solution. Whether it’s supporting multinational corporations or local businesses, the company’s reach ensures that employees worldwide can enjoy high-quality benefits and savings.
Client success remains a top priority, with dedicated account management, marketing, communication, and 24/7 customer support ensuring that both employers and employees get the most from the platform.
By combining personalization, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to service, BenefitHub continues to redefine the employee benefits landscape—delivering real value wherever employees work, live, and play.
Driving Engagement and Well-Being Through Meaningful Benefits
A well-crafted benefits strategy isn’t just a perk— it’s a powerful driver of productivity and retention. Research from SHRM underscores this reality, revealing that organizations with robust benefits programs see a 13% boost in productivity and a staggering 40% improvement in retention. BenefitHub has been at the forefront of this transformation, helping its users save over $75 million in 2024 alone. The impact is tangible: through Auto and Home quoting functionalities, users have saved an average of $970 and $573, respectively, on their policies this year alone.
But savings are just one piece of the puzzle. The real measure of success lies in employee engagement. Through strategic client stewardship, BenefitHub has enabled organizations to achieve an impressive 70% participation rate in their programs. This level of engagement is driven by a comprehensive approach that blends innovative marketing strategies, seamless communication channels, and top-tier customer support. The results speak for themselves—BenefitHub’s customer support is rated 4.8 on TrustPilot, reinforcing its leadership not just in technology but in client success as well.
At the end of the day, the most powerful testimonials come from the organizations themselves. A multinational telecommunications company recently shared with their account representative, “BenefitHub has been a key partner in retaining and engaging our employees.” It’s feedback like this that underscores the company’s commitment to delivering real value.
Workplace well-being is no longer a nice-tohave—it’s a necessity. According to WellHub’s 2024 \State of Work-Life Wellness report, 93% of employees believe well-being at work is as important as salary. The stakes are high: 87% of employees would consider leaving a job that neglects their well-being, while 65% report increased productivity when well-being programs are available. BenefitHub recognizes this and has expanded its offerings beyond discounts and perks to include a holistic suite of health and financial wellness solutions. From gym memberships and mental health support to financial education and childcare assistance, the platform empowers employees to achieve better work-life balance. In doing so, BenefitHub’s clients aren’t just providing benefits—they’re
making a statement about their commitment to employee well-being.
A Global Mindset, A Local Touch
Success in the global marketplace requires more than just scale—it demands a deep understanding of local needs, cultures, and regulations. BenefitHub has embraced this philosophy, serving hundreds of global organizations with a platform that balances a worldwide reach with localized precision.
Over the past few years, BenefitHub has made strategic investments to transform its platform into a truly global solution. Today, it operates in over eight languages, features localized deals in more than 22 markets, and provides a seamless experience for multinational workforces. This global reach is backed by Hi-Trust and SOC 2 accreditations, ensuring security and compliance at every step.
Yet, technology alone isn’t enough. Recognizing the importance of personal connections, BenefitHub has dedicated teams embedded in local markets. These teams work closely with clients and merchant partners, ensuring that every aspect of the platform— from communication assets to service offerings—is tailored to the unique cultural and economic landscape of each region. Whether it’s currency customization, multilingual support, or adherence to country-specific labor laws, the platform is designed to deliver benefits that truly resonate with employees.
BenefitHub’s commitment to localization has fueled its expansion into key international markets. While the U.S. remains its largest market, the company is seeing tremendous growth in Europe, with the UK emerging as its second-largest market. Additionally, rapid
By
combining a global perspective with localized execution,
BenefitHub ensures that companies can offer meaningful, relevant, and engaging benefits—wherever their employees are in the world
expansion in India, Asia, and Latin America signals the increasing demand for benefits solutions that cater to diverse, global workforces. By combining a global perspective with localized execution, BenefitHub ensures that companies can offer meaningful, relevant, and engaging benefits—wherever their employees are in the world.
AI, Personalization, and the Rise of Voluntary Benefits
The landscape of employee benefits is undergoing a seismic shift, driven in large part by technological advancements and the
evolving needs of a diverse workforce. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is at the forefront of this transformation. As AI-powered assistants become more sophisticated, employees can simply express their needs, and their benefits portals will deliver personalized recommendations in real-time. Much like how Amazon relies on intelligent search functions to curate relevant products, voluntary benefits providers must harness AI to enhance personalization and streamline content delivery.
AI is no longer just a promising innovation— it’s an essential requirement. “Great AI combined with strong search functionality is
BenefitHub’s platform is built for seamless integration with traditional enrollment systems, making it easier for brokers and employers to offer a streamlined benefits experience
no longer a future need; it’s a requirement for today,” says Litvack, emphasizing the necessity of AI-driven solutions. However, as with any emerging technology, the integration process involves a degree of trial and error. The rapid rise of online shopping, shifting retail dynamics, and evolving consumer expectations further underscore the need for benefits providers to stay ahead of the curve.
Another major shift is the increasing diversity of the workforce. The era of one-sizefits-all benefits is long gone. As workplaces become more multigenerational than ever before, employees’ expectations for benefits are expanding. To meet these needs, BenefitHub has focused on delivering a seamless and consistent user experience across various platforms. Whether an employee is at their desk, at home with family, or on the move with their smartphone, their benefits must be easily accessible and tailored to their preferences.
Total Rewards programs are a prime example of how BenefitHub is adapting. By broadening the platform’s customization capabilities, the company has expanded financial, health, and wellness offerings, ensuring that employees across generations find value in their benefits. Additionally, BenefitHub is partnering with sustainable and socially responsible merchants, catering to organizations that prioritize ethical business practices alongside competitive benefits packages.
Voluntary benefits are also shaping the future of employee well-being. As more employees seek flexibility in their benefits packages, companies are turning to voluntary benefits to bridge the gaps left by traditional employer-
sponsored plans. From helping employees manage rising auto and home insurance costs to offering solutions for high-deductible health plans, voluntary benefits provide crucial financial relief. “Our decision to expand our voluntary benefits suite has helped employees ‘fill the gaps’ with their current benefits offered through their employer,” Litvack explains. By embracing this shift, BenefitHub is making employee benefits more affordable and personalized than ever before.
Driving Innovation and Growth in Employee Benefits
In a competitive marketplace, standing out requires more than just great benefits—it demands a relentless focus on innovation, scale, and service excellence. BenefitHub has cemented its position as an industry leader by continuously investing in technology, expanding strategic partnerships, and enhancing its platform’s capabilities. One of its key initiatives has been the development of specialized broker tools, enabling brokers to create customized solutions for their clients within minutes.
Looking ahead to 2025, the company sees significant opportunities for growth within the broader Human Capital Management (HCM) ecosystem. BenefitHub’s platform is built for seamless integration with traditional enrollment systems, making it easier for brokers and employers to offer a streamlined benefits experience. By eliminating administrative hurdles and leveraging advanced tools like AI and APIs, the company is ensuring that employers can provide top-tier perks and voluntary benefits with minimal complexity.
“Service excellence, scale, and investment are our top priorities,” Litvack affirms. “We’ll continue to see significant growth in new client acquisitions and partnerships, and we’re investing aggressively in enhancing the user experience and journey.” Part of this investment strategy includes mergers and acquisitions that add depth to the company’s offerings. A recent example is BenefitHub’s acquisition of Abenity, a Tennessee-based provider of private perks programs. “Together, BenefitHub and Abenity can leverage a combined 45 years of experience to reach more members, provide better deals and offers, and propel the benefits industry into the next generation,” Litvack says.
The employee benefits landscape is shifting toward greater personalization, flexibility, and holistic well-being. Employees now expect more than just traditional insurance plans—they want financial wellness tools, mental health support, and perks that fit their remote or hybrid work lifestyles. Socially responsible offerings and digital-first experiences are also becoming increasingly important.
BenefitHub is uniquely positioned to lead this transformation. With AI-driven recommendations, expanded financial wellness tools, and seamless digital integration, the company is equipping employers with the tools they need to meet evolving workforce expectations. By staying ahead of industry trends and prioritizing user experience, BenefitHub is ensuring that employees have access to benefits that truly enhance their lives.
The future of employee benefits isn’t just about offering more—it’s about offering smarter, more meaningful choices. And BenefitHub is ready to make that future a reality.
Empowering a Carbon-Conscious Future
Kristina (Schillinger) Wyatt, CSO, Persefoni
Hi Kristina. Can you share your professional journey and what sparked your passion for your field?
I have long cared about the environment. When in law school, I co-founded a journal focused on international environmental law and policy. My career took me into securities law, which is another passion. Some years later, while working at the law firm Latham & Watkins, I was able to launch a sustainability program that incorporated our operational sustainability, our
pro bono practice and our commercial practice. This was a great opportunity and the firm allowed me to study for my MBA in sustainability while doing this work. Since much of the commercial work around sustainability relates to public companies’ disclosures, my background as a securities lawyer was very relevant and positioned me well to focus on sustainability. From Latham & Watkins, I went to the SEC to work on a pivotal climate disclosure rule, and from there went to Persefoni – a technology
We are just on the cusp of achieving carbon emissions transparency at scale – driven by technology
Kristina Wyatt serves as Deputy General Counsel and Chief Sustainability Officer at Persefoni, a leading carbon management and accounting SAAS software company. She previously served as Senior Counsel for Climate and ESG to the Director of the Division of Corporation Finance at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, where she led the drafting of proposed rules related to climate change disclosures. Prior to joining the SEC, she was a Senior Counsel and Director of Sustainability at Latham & Watkins LLP where she developed and built the firm’s Sustainability program, co-chaired its ESG practice, and was a member of the firm’s ESG Steering Committee. Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Kristina shared her professional trajectory, insights on the most common misconceptions about environmental sustainability and climate change, the secret mantra behind her success, future plans, words of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.
We are all working to tackle a complex set of challenges and we are all learning
firm that enables companies to understand and report with confidence on their emissions. This transparency and understanding are the lynchpins of our ability to move capital and make progress toward the transition to a lower carbon economy.
What are the most rewarding parts of your job, and why?
Two things really. The people I’m able to work with, and the mission. I work with wonderful, creative, dedicated people who are committed to making a difference in the world. And our mission, which is to build technology to make it easier for all organizations on earth to measure, understand, and manage their greenhouse gas emissions. It is a huge challenge because we are creating a new software category. But its importance is undeniable and propels us forward every day. We are making great progress and it’s incredibly gratifying to see our customers using our software to truly understand and manage their emissions.
To begin with, what are some common misconceptions or barriers to sustainability, and how do we address them?
The most common misconception is that environmental sustainability and climate change in particular is a “tree hugger” issue. That might have been the case a couple of decades ago but it has become a serious economic issue that impacts companies in all industries and all corners of the world. We address this by explaining the economic risks and opportunities posed by climate change and highlighting
the many examples where these risks and opportunities are playing out.
What emerging trends or technologies in sustainability are you most excited about in the next 12 months?
We are just on the cusp of achieving carbon emissions transparency at scale – driven by technology. At Persefoni, we have just released a free version of our software that is designed to radically change how we understand the emissions we generate and how we contribute to each others’ emissions. We’ll see where we have opportunities to reduce. Capital will flow more efficiently to those companies working to transition to a lower carbon economy. It’s incredibly powerful and exciting.
How do you stay up-to-date with evolving sustainability regulations, standards, and best practices?
I read a lot. There is a huge amount happening so there is a lot to keep up with. I also learn from my colleagues, customers, and others working in this space. I find that people are very open. We are all working to tackle a complex set of challenges and we are all learning.
You were recently recognized as one of The Top 25 Women Chief Sustainability Officers of 2024. Our readers would love to know the secret mantra behind your success.
I try to stay optimistic and to help others. We are all learning and it’s an incredible privilege to work in a field that is both extremely
challenging and extremely collegial. I’m incredibly inspired by the people I work with and my friends in the industry.
Is there a particular person you are grateful for who helped get you to where you are?
Yes. I’m incredibly grateful to Allison Herren Lee. She was a Commissioner of the SEC and Acting Chair of the SEC after President Biden was elected. She asked me to come work at the SEC on an assignment to lead the drafting of the climate proposal. That was an incredible honor and privilege and I’ll always be unspeakably grateful to her. She is also one of the smartest, toughest people I know so she continues to be an inspiration.
How do you keep your mind healthy and stay resilient? And how do you motivate your team?
I am genuinely grateful. The challenges we face are huge, to be sure, and at the same time I am cognizant of what a privilege it is to work to address them.
I have great friends in my company and in the sustainability community. They are enormously important to me.
Finally, I try to motivate my team by giving them responsibility, autonomy, and regular feedback and recognition. They are wonderful people working toward goals about which they care deeply. Allowing them to shine is really the best way for me to support them.
What is your favorite quote?
The Dalai Lama had a great quote about optimism and realism:
We are just on the cusp of a digital revolution that will drive carbon transparency. That’s incredibly exciting
“Optimism doesn’t mean that you are blind to the reality of the situation. It means that you remain motivated to seek a solution to whatever problems arise.”
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
I see myself doing much of what I am doing now but at a higher level. That is, writing, speaking, serving on boards, and working with companies that are building and implementing their strategies to mitigate sustainability risks and take advantage of opportunities. I’m incredibly excited about the software we’re building and the trajectory we’re on to gain much greater transparency across industries. That will have a huge impact on companies’ ability to plan to meet
their goals and track their progress. We are just on the cusp of a digital revolution that will drive carbon transparency. That’s incredibly exciting.
What advice would you give to anyone starting out on their career in your industry?
The work we do is not easy. Expect to face opposition. Expect to hit walls. Adjust and keep going. This is important work, and you will make a difference if you keep at it. Just keep going. Also, we are all learning. Be humble and eager for knowledge. Share information and ideas with others. Finally, anchor back to economics and the business case for change. If the work we are doing is not supported by a strong business case, it won’t be sustainable.
Hi Damien. Could you share your journey to becoming an expert in your current position?
I’m not sure if I am qualified to be called an expert, but my current position is Senior Vice President and Managing Director for the Asia Pacific and Japan geography for Tricentis, the global leader in software quality engineering and test automation software. I started my career almost 30 years ago, building large missioncritical IT systems for financial institutions at Andersen Consulting, which gave me an acute appreciation for what is required to drive
successful business outcomes from complex technology initiatives. I then spent the past 20 years in various leadership roles at enterprise software companies across the Asia Pacific region. I had the opportunity to transition from the sell side to the end-user side of technology early in my career, which provided me a strong foundation for understanding what enterprises hope to achieve from their technology investments. I like to think that the combination of my multi-faceted experience has provided me with the knowledge and competencies to do what I do better.
Digital savviness and competencies are already a must-have in today’s environment!
Damien Wong is Senior Vice President for APAC atTricentis, the global leader in continuous testautomation.Inhisrole,Damienisresponsible for all aspects of go-to-market development and growth for Tricentis across the Asia-Pacific and Japan region. Prior to Tricentis, Damien was Vice President for APAC at Confluent where he grew the presence of the company beyond Australia and Southeast Asia into new markets including Japan, Korea, Greater China, and India. Before Confluent, Damien was Vice President and General Manager for Red Hat across the ASEAN, Korea, Hong Kong and Taiwan markets. Damien joined Red Hat from HP Software, where he was the General Manager for Southeast Asia. Damien has also held technology and business management roles in companies such as META Group and Accenture.
Over his 27-year career in the technology industry, Damien has won numerous awards, including being named Executive of the Year (Computer Software category) in the Singapore Business Review’s Management Excellence Awards for 2018.
Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Damien shared his professional trajectory, insights on authentic leadership, personal hobbies and interests, future plans, words of wisdom, and much more.The following excerpts are taken from the interview.
To drive successful digital transformation, one must be willing and able to constantly challenge the status quo
What do you love the most about your current role?
In my current role, I am responsible for growing the Tricentis business across Asia Pacific. Building businesses are a passion of mine. While it brings along many challenges, especially in a multilingual, multicultural and heavily nuanced geography like Asia Pacific, seeing tangible progress and results is highly satisfying.
Considering the impact of new technologies and the high numbers of enterprise digital transformation programs, when do you think digital skills and experiences will become a must-have?
Digital savviness and competencies are already a must-have in today’s environment! Modern workforces need to be comfortable using different technologies to ensure that they stay relevant. Take the domain of software quality assurance for example. When I started my career, software systems were built using different technology architectures and development methodologies, and the frequency and speed of change was much slower. Back then, it was possible to adopt manual testing approaches. As technology evolved, script-based test automation came about, significantly speeding up the quality assurance process, although test engineers were required to do the scripting or programming needed for the automation. Think of this as the evolution from running a footrace to using bicycles to race. However, in today’s world, script-based test automation has become a bottleneck and even a burden, especially for large organisations with complex, highly integrated systems. The attempt to use scripts to automate these test scenarios across different systems results in
an accumulation of exponentially-large number of test scripts, skyrocketing maintenance effort and costs. This ironically leads to low quality outcomes (because of the false test positives or negatives, or lack of relevant test coverage), leading to severe software outages.
This is where Tricentis’ disruptive test automation technology offers a solution. Our codeless, fully automated model-based test approach is a game-changer. If we compare the old paradigm of using script-based testing to a bicycle, modern enterprises who are still using such technology are essentially racing against the equivalent of Formula 1 cars in the business world. Imagine trying to win a Formula 1 race using only a bicycle! In a rapidly changing world driven by technology, staying ahead means embracing the latest tech advances. This will help these organisations survive, and hopefully thrive, in today’s hyper-competitive world.
In your opinion, what are the key skills and qualities that a successful digital transformation officer should possess?
To drive successful digital transformation, one must be willing and able to constantly challenge the status quo. The only constant is change, and the ability to adapt quickly to change is the only sustainable competitive advantage. Let’s take software engineering as an example. In 2013, we heard the coining of the slogan “the developer is king”. This reflected the era when success was defined by the speed at which software was being developed. The goal for businesses then was focused around recruiting the best developers they could find. Fast forward to today, GenAI now allows software code to be developed autonomously with natural language prompts. The speed at which code
is written has gone up exponentially, and the new bottleneck to delivering digital innovation is now on validating the code, and ensuring its functionality, scalability and security.
Leading organisations are adapting to this shift by focusing their efforts on quality assurance engineers and embracing codeless AI-powered test automation. Any successful digital transformation leader 10 years ago who will not adapt to the new environment is unlikely to be a successful leader today, proving Charles Darwin right. It’s not the strongest nor the smartest of the species that will survive, it’s the ones most adaptive to change.
Is there a particular person you are grateful for who helped get you to where you are?
I have so many people that I am grateful to who’ve helped me become the person that I am today. No one is born armed with all the knowledge and experience to do their jobs well, nor will they always be given the opportunity to do so even if they do have the ability to do them. There were managers who gave me the opportunity to start a new role, taking some measure of risk in doing so. There were friends who provided good counsel and served as effective sounding boards. And there were also those who were naysayers, who told me I couldn’t do something, or I wouldn’t be able to achieve my goals, and provided me with the grit and determination I needed to prove them wrong. And of course, I am grateful to my wife and family, who have constantly stood by me through thick and thin. They provide me the inspiration I need to do what I do, to always be a better version of myself every single day.
If you could have a one-hour meeting with someone famous who is alive or dead, who would it be and why?
As a Singaporean, I have the greatest respect for the late Mr. Lee Kuan Yew who was the Prime Minister that led Singapore to independence and whom I regard as the founding father of modern Singapore. I never had the chance to speak with Lee Kuan Yew but have been a beneficiary of the wonderful nation he helped to build. How he defied the naysayers to transform a tiny island with no natural resources into one of the most prosperous countries in the world, has been an inspiration to me. While I’ve managed to glean some of his wisdom from biographies, if I were given an opportunity to speak with him for an hour today, I would gladly use it to seek his noholds barred insights into what I personally can do better, for myself, my family, my team and the world around me.
What does the term “authentic leadership” mean to you?
I’m not even sure what unauthentic leadership means! A long time ago, I learnt the difference between being a manager and being a leader. A manager does things right, while the leader does the right things. But to do the right things, you need to know what the right things are, and have the conviction to do them regardless of whether they are popular or not. So to me, authentic leadership refers to leaders who say what they mean and mean what they say. Their teams follow them because they trust them to always do the right things, even if they are hard. And often, they follow these leaders even if they don’t have any formal need to do so.
Anyone who thinks their job is done and they’ve reached the pinnacle, thereby not looking actively to adapt and even be prepared to disrupt themselves, will be looking at the beginning of the end
What are some of your passions outside of work? What do you like to do in your time off?
To me, family and friendship are most important. At the end of the day, after all you do in your professional career, many things will fade away, but your family will continue to stand by you. And if you have done right by the people you worked with over the years whether they be employee, customer or partner, they will remain friends who will remember you not for your role or your title (which will all fade away one day), but for what you stand for. And as such, I try to spend as much time as I can with my family, enjoying shared experiences together - a meal, a movie, a holiday. And of course, investing time to build relationships, whether it’s networking or having a coffee.
What is your biggest goal? Where do you see yourself in 5 years from now?
Anyone who tells you that they know exactly where they will be in 5 years is probably either untruthful or delusional. The world is changing so quickly, companies adapt and evolve (or perish), and jobs change as a result. Just take the advent of GenAI. Who knew that in a space of less than 2 years,
our whole world would be facing unprecedented change with this disruptive technology? My goal will be to continue to stay open-minded, continue learning, and remaining relevant. Anyone who thinks their job is done and they’ve reached the pinnacle, thereby not looking actively to adapt and even be prepared to disrupt themselves, will be looking at the beginning of the end. So, my goal is to constantly be asking myself “How can I be a better version of myself tomorrow?”
What advice would you give to somebody who is considering entering your field or has just entered the field?
I will tell anyone entering the tech industry to be prepared to constantly adapt and change. Those who fear learning new things and embracing change are probably not going to enjoy this industry. Will we always be right in the choices we make? Of course not! I’ve made countless mistakes along the way, but the important thing is to have the humility to acknowledge your mistakes, and more importantly what you’ve learnt from them. And then be able to use these learnings to continuously improve. “Better, better but never best” - that should always be the motto to live by.
Paving Data-Driven Path to Community Wellness
Chris Hutchins, SVP, Lifepoint Health
Hi Chris. Please tell us about your background and areas of expertise. I have had incredible opportunities to work for and learn from many fantastic leaders over the course of my career. The first of these opportunities came through my mom. She was a supervisor in the radiology department at a local hospital near our home in New Hampshire. I worked there part time on weekends and school vacations, and this experience helped me see healthcare from
a different perspective. The most impactful part of my experiences were the interactions that I observed. I saw real passion for helping people – not only doctors and nurses, but in every role that made the hospital run. It was that experience that eventually led me to my current career path. There were many roles that provided opportunities for me to learn various aspects of healthcare. From learning the billing and customer service support for a small practice, to budgeting, building
Providing our leaders with actionable insights to enable highly informed decision making is one of the many ways we get to support our teammates that care for our neighbors, friends, and family members in the communities where we live
As Lifepoint’s senior vice president and chief data and analytics officer, Chris Hutchins is responsible for overseeing Lifepoint’s enterprise-wide data and analytic strategies and operations; working with leaders across the company to align key business objectives; and leading the company’s efforts to build and maintain an advanced platform that will transform data into predictive analytics and help drive Lifepoint’s continued growth.
Prior to joining Lifepoint, Hutchins spent seven years at Northwell Health in New York, serving as vice president, chief data and analytics officer and associate vice president, healthcare analytics. In these roles, he directed the development and implementation of enterprise analytic strategies, while overseeing data and analytic governance, business intelligence and data warehouse development. Before Northwell Health, he served as the corporate director of business intelligence services for Partners Healthcare and as deputy CIO for Massachusetts General Physicians Organization.
Hutchins is a member of the Healthcare Financial Management Association and Medical Group Management Association. He is also a member of the International Institute for Analytics Healthcare Analytics Research Council and a member of the Analytics Expert Network. He currently serves as an Advisory Board Member for Modal and Board Member for the Healthcare Data and Analytics Association.
Recently,inanexclusiveinterviewwithDigital First Magazine, Chris shared his professional trajectory, insights on the role of advanced analytics and AI in transforming healthcare, significant career milestones, personal hobbies and interests, future plans, words of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.
budget tools, developing, and implementing systems, revenue modeling and database development. These things led to roles in information technology as a director and eventually to deputy chief information officer and, at one point, adding two additional roles that I held concurrently: program director for the implementation of an electronic health record and billing system, and corporate director for business intelligence services to merge three data warehouses and teams into one. Through these opportunities, I gained experience with complex data conversions, vendor contracting and management, team and leadership development, data governance, roadmap development and strategic planning. These roles, along with data and analytics, which has been the focus of my current and prior role, have allowed me the privilege to collaborate with extraordinary people at every level in many organizations.
What do you love the most about your current role?
The best part of my job is collaborating with and supporting the amazing people at Lifepoint Health who I have the privilege to call my teammates. I love our company culture and the way that people show up for each other and take every opportunity to help each other succeed. It is an incredible opportunity to have a positive impact and to help advance our mission of making communities healthier. I also find it extremely satisfying when we can use data and analytics to support that mission. When I began my career journey, I never imagined that data and analytics could have a direct impact on patient care. Now, in 2024, it is
In my experience, starting with a specific use case has been the best way to make progress on a multi-year endeavor
widely understood that they are necessary to support nearly every function. I love being able to collaborate with my team and colleagues across the organization to get the right data in the hands of clinicians at the point of care. Providing our leaders with actionable insights to enable highly informed decision making is one of the many ways we get to support our teammates that care for our neighbors, friends, and family members in the communities where we live.
What role do you see advanced analytics and AI playing in transforming healthcare, and how are you leveraging these technologies?
There are many ways that both are already fueling and accelerating transformation. Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is being used to address high volume repetitive processes that are largely rule-based. The most prevalent examples that I have seen have been in revenue cycle workflows. Predictive analytics are in use in many different aspects of healthcare. They are being used to predict risks for development of clinical conditions, complications, and incidents like falls. They are also being used to predict demand for services based on numerous factors like changing demographics in a geographic area, weather events, and seasonal trends to name a few. There are some exciting capabilities that are emerging that are aimed at relieving administrative burden for clinicians, which has been a growing challenge since the advent of the electronic health record (EHR). The use of Generative Pre-Trained Transformers (GPTs) within an EHR to enable a clinician to query the record
I am certain that I could learn a lot from someone who clearly has an effective way to manage so many things concurrently
with a chatbot for specific key elements of a patient’s history and retrieving a concise summary in near real time is one example. Another is the use of ambient listening to assist with documentation by providing an initial visit summary for a clinician to review and finalize rather than having to write it after the visit. The evolution of Large Language Models (LLMs), AI and GPT is rapidly accelerating. The possibilities are seemingly limitless. There are solutions that
will likely develop over a matter of months that may not seem feasible today.
How do you stay current with emerging trends and innovations in healthcare analytics, and how do you apply this knowledge to drive innovation?
I subscribe to and read many publications like CDO Magazine, Becker’s Hospital Review, Crain’s, and Modern Healthcare and follow many organizations, leaders, and technology
companies on LinkedIn. I make it a point to take a meeting or two each month to learn about emerging solutions. Additionally, I use my personal network that has grown over many years and frequently connect and consult with others on current topics or technologies. I also take advantage of opportunities to attend events and webinars based on the topics. All of these things inform my thinking as I collaborate with my teammates to develop and evolve our roadmap.
What are some of the most significant challenges you’ve faced in leading healthcare analytics efforts, and how have you overcome them?
The most significant challenge by far is that there are so many systems and data sources that house our healthcare data that it is very difficult to provide enterprise views of our performance as a health system. The most difficult sources to solve this for are clinical systems. This is a common challenge for large and growing health systems that acquire a diverse collection of vendor solutions that all have their own workflows, methods of data capture and storage, and normalization and master files. The first obstacle is often that there is not a replica of the EHR data set that can be used to enable access to the data without risking impact to a system that is at the heart of care delivery. While sometimes that is the only option, it is not a first choice. Creating a common model to combine and store data from these systems takes a multidisciplined team and can be very labor intensive and expensive. Data engineers, analysts, architects, clinical informaticists, and other subject matter experts are key roles
for tackling this challenge. In my experience, starting with a specific use case has been the best way to make progress on a multi-year endeavor. This is the approach that my teams have had success with over the years, and a similar approach is yielding good results with use cases that are in progress now.
What has been your most career-defining moment that you are proud of?
I was about four years into my role with my previous employer. My team and I had invested those years to build a solid foundation that was enabling teams across the health system to begin to optimize and manage their functions more efficiently. These functions ranged from population health, research, care coordination, revenue cycle, system strategy, human resources, quality and safety, numerous clinical departments, emergency services, workforce safety, and many more. At one point, I was asked to provide an overview of our analytics to a visiting health system along with one of our executive vice presidents. That led to presenting to the company president and chief executive officer, and, ultimately, to the board of governors. This was a great moment that was the product of collaboration and partnership with literally hundreds of people over those four years and that felt so rewarding. At that moment, I had no idea that within 24 months, we would be in the middle of a pandemic. The capabilities that we had developed enabled our teams to quickly pivot and provide near real-time analytics that were critical as the health system treated more COVID-19 cases than any other health system in the U.S. This was
most certainly the result of the amazing work of so many extraordinary people, and I am proud to have worked alongside them.
If you could have a one-hour meeting with someone famous who is alive, who would it be and why?
My choice for this might come as a surprise, but I would love to sit down for an hour with the NBA Hall of Fame center Shaquille O’Neal. I admire his fantastic career in the NBA, but what inspires me most is seeing the enormous success that he has achieved after he retired as a basketball player. He is highly regarded for his role in broadcasting as well,
but his achievements outside of basketball are truly remarkable. He owns hundreds of businesses, has starred in movies, released five studio albums, and likely other endeavors that I have not learned of yet. This is all quite impressive, but it is secondary to taking care of his family. His support and involvement with his children is well known and documented. There are countless stories about his kindness and generosity being expressed to people he does not know where he became aware of the need of an individual or a community, and he simply and quietly took care of it because he had the means. He has left a mark on every community that he has lived in by identifying ways he
Understanding the high-level goals and strategies of your organization will be important to your success
can contribute. This may be in financial ways, volunteering his time, or volunteering as a reserve officer. Yes, he took it upon himself to get trained so that he could be a resource to law enforcement in his community. I am certain that I could learn a lot from someone who clearly has an effective way to manage so many things concurrently.
Is there a particular person you are grateful for who helped get you to where you are?
I am grateful for so many who have helped me over the years. There are countless life lessons that were essential and only came through the investments that my mom and dad made in me and my brothers. I will always be grateful to a gentleman named Brad who hired me at two different organizations. He gave me opportunities that allowed me to learn about many aspects of healthcare and opened subsequent doors. I am also grateful for the teams with which I have been fortunate to work. I would not be where I am without their amazing work –and at times blind trust – as I stepped into new roles. I have been truly blessed.
How do you keep your mind healthy and stay resilient? And how do you motivate your team?
I enjoy spending time with family and seeing my two sons grow as men and achieving their goals. Most of my reading is related to my work, but I thoroughly enjoy that. I also like to stream a good courtroom drama or documentary series, attend live music events, or listen to recorded music. When it comes to motivating my team, I probably have an unfair advantage in that they are an exceptional team of people who show up motivated and are passionate about their work. Working with data and analytics requires a great deal of time developing solutions, reports or
dashboards and teams do not get to see the direct impact of their work. An important aspect of this work is providing opportunities for team members to present their work to stakeholders and leaders where they can hear direct feedback. I have also found holding monthly town hall style meetings provides a good vehicle to make that connection. The agenda for these meetings is intentionally light with only two or three topics with two of them being standard segments. One segment provides the opportunity for a team member to share their story and career journey. The stories are often inspiring, funny, and sometimes both. Another segment is reserved for a guest speaker, usually a business partner or leader that is invited to provide an overview of their function and to share how the data team’s work is making a difference. The other segments vary but often include a highlight of recently completed work that many of the team members have not seen as they are working on other projects. One-on-one check-ins with my team members are also helpful. I usually have one or two per week, in addition to more frequent ones for my leaders. These are just a few ways that I have found to be effective. However, other approaches may be needed as dynamics change.
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
I will be incredibly grateful to have my family all in good health and thriving and the same for all my current and new friends and colleagues. It is also my hope that I will have made meaningful contributions to my family, friends, neighbors, teammates, and organization, and
helped them to achieve their goals. I am also looking forward to continued opportunities to invest in the next generation of data leaders who will continue to innovate and use data and analytics to accelerate transformation.
What advice would you give to someone looking to move into a leadership role in advanced analytics?
There are many pathways that may lead to leadership roles, but there are commonalities in most of them. The first one I will highlight is establishing good relationships. Analytics, in most cases, measure performance of essential functions that are not typically managed by an analytics team. Getting to know the leaders and teams will be well worth the time, as will doing some reading to understand the functional area of the business that the data comes from if it is not an area you have spent much time in. Understanding the high-level goals and strategies of your organization will be important to your success. These goals almost always require multiple disciplines and collaboration across departments, functions, teams and roles. Your chosen field in data and analytics is very much a team sport. Your success will be based on how you collaborate and help your colleagues and teammates to be successful. This will establish you as a go-to person, good collaborator, good teammate, and someone who gets things done. This generally will open doors to more opportunities and greater responsibility over time. I would suggest that one embrace the process and learning opportunities and think of this as an investment in your future. Time is in your favor.
Wa n t t o S e l l o r fi n d
I nve s t o rs f o r yo u r
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Nurturing a Sustainable Future, Transforming Today
Diane Cowin, SVP Director Global Transit – Growth Markets / ESG, AECOM
Hi Diane. Please tell us about your background and areas of expertise.
I am AECOM’s Senior Vice President, Global Transportation ESG Lead and the acting Transit Market Lead for the Americas. I have served in a management / operational, project and program management, and business development capacity throughout my 30-year career. I support the executive leadership team of AECOM driving transformation through strategy and growth by leveraging trends and future-forward thought, including the key tenants of Environmental Social Governance (ESG), innovation, and decarbonization.
In addition to operational and leadership roles, I have also served as a principal or project director for major infrastructure projects in the transportation and energy fields.
What do you love the most about your current role?
I am currently serving in two roles at AECOM. My role as the Global Transportation ESG Lead is a wonderful combination of my passion for a healthy planet, my education in Environmental Resource Management, my experience providing community and environmental benefits through infrastructure, and my need to always be learning.
The energy transition and renewables will continue to trend with advancements and innovations in everything from energy storage and management solutions to new renewable profiles coming to market
Diane Cowin is a Senior Vice President and the Director for Environmental Social Governance (ESG) for AECOM’s Global Transportation Business Line and the acting Transit Market Lead for the Americas. She currently supports the executive leadership team of AECOM (Fortune 500) driving transformation through strategy and growth by leveraging trends and future forward thought including providing input into the global strategy development for transportation and transit with key tenants ESG and innovation. She is the AECOM lead for ESG in Transportation globally. She serves on the AECOM Americas Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion steering committee.
In addition to operational and leadership roles, she has worked on infrastructure projects around the world. Diane is a principal and program manager for mega-transit and passenger rail projects, programs and multi-year planning contracts. Diane is a keen strategist with proven success in propelling rail visions towards implementation through strategic yet methodical planning. She is a trusted advisor to private and public entities as an industry leader in the regulatory and funding landscape for the transportation and energy sectors.
Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Diane shared her professional trajectory, the secret mantra behind her success, personal sources of inspiration, future plans, words of wisdom, and much more.The following excerpts are taken from the interview.
My role as the acting Transit Market Lead allows me to leverage my long-earned reputation, keen sense of industry trends, and business development and growth acumen in the transit and rail fields to help agencies succeed, communities thrive, and keep AECOM at the top.
What are the three major trends you foresee in your industry in the next 12 months?
The next twelve months in our industry will be shaped by numerous elections around the globe. 2024 is a historic election year, with over 50 countries having elections with over 2 billion voters according to The Center for American Progress, a US policy institute. Each one of these elections will have ripple effects on the trends in tech, transportation, energy and many other industries.
I do see the continued emergence of AI and automation in more fields. In infrastructure, I believe the current focus on driving down infrastructure construction costs will lead to an increase in automation of design with AI and the concept of designing to cost. The energy transition and renewables will continue to trend with advancements and innovations in everything from energy storage and management solutions to new renewable profiles coming to market.
You were recently recognized as one of The Top 50 Women Leaders of California for 2024. Our readers would love to know the secret sauce behind your success. I am part of a service industry helping agencies and private entities implement some of the most impactful infrastructure projects in the world. First and foremost, I believe my success comes
from my passion for the positive impact our projects can make on individuals, communities, and the world. Just as important are the relationships I’ve cultivated, a willingness to give time to help others in the industry, and the ability to place myself in my client’s shoes to best help them reach their goals.
Is there a particular person you are grateful for who helped get you to where you are?
So many people have inspired and supported me throughout my journey — from my current manager, who trusts me implicitly and allows to me stretch my wings and try new approaches, to my mother, who was in the computer industry in the 1980s and was often the only woman in the room, to the CEO and COO of a women-owned business that saw my potential and put me on the Board of Directors of the company in my 20’s. There are so many more colleagues, friends and family members who helped me and continue to do so today. It is so important to take the time to nurture your relationships, they are what propel you toward your goals.
How do you keep your mind healthy and stay resilient? And how do you motivate your team?
The key to keeping my mind healthy and staying resilient is my morning yoga practice or a long hike in the woods with my dogs. I also have to be super vigilant in organizing my days and weeks to allocate my time to what is most important for AECOM and our people and clients. I have had to learn to say “No, but” and provide an alternative solution if I can’t take on a task, meeting, work trip, or speaking event.
Making a positive impact on your organization and industry often comes down to being bold and bringing your ideas to the front for discussion and consideration
What does the term “authentic leadership” mean to you?
Authentic Leadership, to me, is bringing your whole authentic self to bear on everything you do—from working with your Board of Directors, management team, clients, employees, and even your family and friends. Authentic leadership is best embodied by those who exhibit integrity, accountability, and empathy. Authentic leaders that I have had the privilege to work with at AECOM are committed to bettering themselves, the company and the employees, being disciplined, inspiring trust, and have the ability to focus on the goal and bring others along.
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
I see myself continuing to support AECOM’s growth while mentoring the next generation of leaders so they can not only succeed, but thrive at AECOM and in the infrastructure, ESG, and digital industries. I am also considering private or public Board of Director service to support smaller minority-, women-, and/or LGBTQIA+ - owned companies to grow their business and increase their sphere of influence.
Given your extensive experience, what advice would you give to aspiring leaders who aim to make a positive impact in their organizations and the industry as a whole?
My best advice to aspiring leaders is to lean in, trust and bet on yourself and your ideas. Making a positive impact on your organization and industry often comes down to being bold and bringing your ideas to the front for discussion and consideration. It takes diverse voices to truly make a meaningful and sustainable impact in any industry.
Unlocking Growth & Innovation for Retail & Consumer Clients
Chris Daniel, Managing Director, Protiviti
Hi Chris. Please tell us about your background and areas of expertise. I started my career in management consulting with Ernst & Young. I worked in E&Y’s Advanced Development Center in Chicago where we focused on solving our client’s business problems by bringing the client and our team together in our facility to design and deliver a collaborative solution.
After over a decade of delivering value to clients across industries, I decided to transition to industry taking a program leadership position with CNA insurance. There I led
the transformation of CNA’s business from a traditional model to a strategic outsourced model. As a leader within the organization, I was asked to head up one of four strategic programs to completely transform how CNA performs their underwriting business. This program was a foundational imperative in achieving CNA’s strategy. In this role, I lead the program’s technology transformation, managing a team of 200+ team members.
During my tenure at CNA, I became intrigued with the intersection of retail and consumer. My initial exposure to the challenges in this industry
My role is to develop a go-tomarket strategy and sales plays that would enable different segments of Protiviti’s technology practice to address industry client’s challenges
ChrisDanielisaManagingDirectorinProtiviti’s Consumer Products & Services practice, leading the technology consulting go-to-market for the Food & Restaurant segment. Chris is a leader in Protiviti’s Enterprise Cloud solution, responsible for the achievement of cloud-based revenue, while leading the initiation of Protiviti’s Google Cloud alliance. Chris is responsible for developing relationships and mutually beneficial go-to-market strategies with the strategic partnerships, including Google Cloud, Amazon Web Services, and Microsoft Azure.
Clients turn to Chris and his team to solve complex, challenging business problems. His talented team of professionals engage directly with clients on strategic transformational agendas that include digital transformation, customer experience, data analytics, AI, digital workplace, omni-channel, service desk, business agility & cost optimization.
Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Chris shared his professional trajectory, insights on the three major trends in the retail and consumer industry, the secret sauce behind his success, personal hobbies and interests, his favorite quote, future plans, words of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.
Clients in the retail and consumer industry have to keep focused on driving value and specialization to remain competitive with their brand
was with ‘mom and pop’ businesses in my local community in downtown Chicago. I created a business, called Red Stapler Hosting, that offered small retail businesses digital offerings and services, including websites, email marketing, branding, and application development.
As my interests in retail and consumer continued to grow, I decided to leave CNA and pursue a transformational role at Nielsen in their Global Buy business. I played an executive Product Owner role for Nielsen’s new flagship product - Answers On Demand. This platform offered a more modern, web-based, cloud-centric way to deliver Nielsen’s data that was drastically different than how Nielsen had delivered data in the past over desktop applications, file transfer protocol (FTP), CDROM, and tape backup. I built a global team of over 200 people responsible for customer engagement, client success, product development, and platform deployment. I met with all of the Fortune 500 and Fortune 100 Consumer Good and Retail companies and learned more about their business and technical challenges. While at Nielsen, I continued to grow my ‘side hustle’ business at Red Stapler Hosting and continued to apply my retail and consumer knowledge to my clients.
One of my career bucket list items was to be full time self-employed. Hence, I decided to go ‘all-in’ on my work with Red Stapler Hosting and created an LLC called CPG in the Cloud. I created a strategic partnership with Nielsen, where I provided digital transformation services for Nielsen’s clients as they continued to deploy their products and platforms. My role was to help Nielsen’s clients transform their internal operations and architectures to enable a more seamless transaction with Nielsen’s platforms. In this role, I also focused on
developing strong, collaborative partnerships. I worked closely with a variety of solution integrators and consulting companies to help in providing resources for my clients to meet their transformation needs.
As I continued my solo career, I received various offers to help technology and retail startups. Through these opportunities, I was overly intrigued by one concept in particular. The retail technology founder of MUBEX, The MUtually Beneficial EXchange, asked me to join him as a co-founder to develop this concept into a product and take it to market. The idea was to offer a new way to perform commerce - one that would reward businesses, customers, and the community every time a purchase was made. In this role, we successfully built the platform and deployed it to our initial set of users. But with every startup, comes risk and unfortunately our chief investor suddenly passed away of a heart attack which forced us to close down the company. I learned a lot from my solo career as an independent consultant and a tech startup founder. I learned that “every second counts” and that having passion and confidence in an idea or a decision can make a real impact.
After an abrupt ending to my solo career, I decided to go back into management consulting - this time with a strong, dedicated focus on helping retail and consumer clients solve the most challenging problems, with the support and collaboration of strategic partners. I joined Maven Wave, a could-first, digital management consulting firm out of Chicago to lead up their Retail and Consumer practice. We made a strategic, bold decision to focus all of our partnership efforts with Google Cloud. It paid off and as such Maven Wave achieved Google Cloud’s annual Best Solution Integrator award
three times over a five-year period. In this role, I built a strong partnership with many team members at Google - as well as other partners. During my tenure, Maven Wave was acquired by a global service integrator by the name of Atos. Atos owned a large share of enterprise data centers and wanted the Maven Wave team to migrate their existing clients from these data centers to the cloud - Google Cloud, as well as Microsoft’s Azure Cloud and Amazon Web Services. This decision made an impact - one which changed the culture of the Maven Wave teams and in turn encouraged many of the legacy Maven Wave team members to seek new opportunities outside of Atos.
During this time, I was recruited by a global management consulting company by the name of Protiviti. Protiviti does work with 90%+ of the Fortune 500 and Fortune 100 companies. At the time, Protiviti was celebrating $2b in revenue, 10k employees, 35 countries, and 20 years of service. As part of Protiviti’s five-year plan, they wanted to shift to an industry go-tomarket model where Protiviti would be solving client’s industry problems. They wanted to do this through their strategic partnerships with companies like Adobe, SAP, Salesforce, and Microsoft. They wanted to position their technology practice as the key set of services for growth. Hence, I - along with about 10 other team members - were recruited to join Protiviti as industry technology leaders. I was asked to lead the retail and consumer technology practice, called Consumer Products & Services. My role is to develop a go-to-market strategy and sales plays that would enable different segments of Protiviti’s technology practice to address industry client’s challenges. I work closely with key Protiviti account teams to
customize these sales plays specifically for the client. I am responsible for leading, organizing and managing the sales efforts for these pursuits - as well as playing an industry subject matter expert role during delivery. I regularly meet with client CIO, CTO, and senior executives to inform
them of Protiviti’s technology capabilities and to help created solutions that will address their challenges. As part of my role, I also have been asked to incubate Protiviti’s global Google Cloud alliance and support the growth and maturity of Protiviti’s Enterprise Cloud services.
I think of my career as a journey, and it is about the people that I have meet and developed relationships with and shared experiences with that I remember the most
What do you love the most about your current role?
A client once asked me…” Chris, what brings you joy in your professional career?” ....and I quickly answered…”Solving complex retail and consumer challenges”. In my role, I get to do this every day. I get to hear about industry problems and challenges and provide advice, guidance, and services to overcome these challenges. I get to build relationships with clients and partners to use cross functional expertise to innovate on new solutions. I get to support growth and innovation. I am humbled to be able to have this exposure and honored to be trusted with sharing my knowledge and expertise.
What are the three major trends do you foresee in your industry in the next 12 months?
When we talk about the retail and consumer industry, there are various facets or subsegments. I define retail and consumer as any product of service a company creates to be purchased by an end customer. This applies to the more traditional Consumer Good Product companies
like Procter & Gamble, Pepsi, or Tyson Foods as well as the Hospitality and Travel companies like Marriott, Hard Rock Casino, or Airbnb. This also applies to more traditional Retail companies like Kroger, Home Depot, The Gap as well as more modern retailers like Walgreens, Amazon.com, and Rakuten. I also believe that Food & Restaurants are part of retail and consumer. These companies include the more traditional Lettuce Entertain You chains, Cheesecake Factory restaurants as well as the more common quick service restaurants like McDonald’s.
With that being said, I commonly advise my clients on the following three trends:
● Brand Loyalty
● Customer Experience
● Innovation
This industry is riddled with many challenges from labor to technology advancements, to M&A, but at the core - this industry provides products or services to customers. Customers tend to switch quickly - that being brand, product, channels, etc. Just think about the concept of Buy Online Pickup in Store and the emergence
of new channels like UberEATS and Grubhub and DoorDash. Today consumers demand the ability to get their products delivered to their home. This could include a household item like soap or razors, lunch from a local restaurant, and even larger purchases like service that Carvana offers in buying/selling a car. Customers are less focused on brand and more focused on value and customer experience. Customers want the ability to pick items from a catalog at their convenience and then decide how they want to obtain these items - i.e. delivery, pickup, in store, etc.
Hence, clients in the retail and consumer industry have to keep focused on driving value and specialization to remain competitive with their brand. They need to be passionate about observing, learning, and constantly evolving their customer’s experiences to be frictionless
and aligned with their customer’s preferences. Lastly, they need to breed a culture of innovation - one that constantly asks ‘how can we do that differently or better to meet our customers needs?’. The obvious example here is the onset of Artificial Intelligence in the market. This is just a capability, but it is what we do with this capability across these three themes that will differentiate companies in this industry.
What has been your most careerdefining moment that you are proud of?
I think of my career as a journey, and it is about the people that I have meet and developed relationships with and shared experiences with that I remember the most. I will occasionally remember one of these experiences and share it with one of my colleagues. If I had to pin-point one of these moments that defined my career, I
If I had the chance to have a one-hour meeting with someone famous, I would pick Barack Obama
would have to center in on my decision to become self-employed, to work for myself, to ‘hustle’ to make payroll, and how that decision led me to great relationships, awesome partnerships, life and career lessons, and has shaped me into how I conduct myself in my professional life.
Coincidentally, I was recently sharing this story with one of my daughter’s friends who is currently interning at a consulting firm. She found a lot of value and insight in me sharing this story.
If you could have a one-hour meeting with someone famous who is alive, who would it be and why?
Wow…this was probably the most challenging question on this list! My initial thoughts were to list people like Satya Nadella (CEO of Microsoft), Sundar Pichai (CEO of Alphabet and Google), or Thomas Kurian (CEO of Google Cloud) for their transformational leadership and their ability to remain resilient to their mission while navigating industry and market challenges. As I thought through this a bit more, I am not sure I would be inspired and motivated to have a one-hour meeting of any of these people - especially since I have met Thomas Kurian already. I think what would be more rewarding is to meet a famous leader that had everything going against them - but through strategy, commitment, and focus on a clear mission made a difference in a lot of people’s lives - both in the current moment but also by setting the frameworks for the future. I would want to leave inspired and motivated, and I would want the time to fly by and be left with more questions than answers. I would want the ability to explore a broad range of topics
from macro, global to personal development to community to shared interests like sports. I would want to leave with more wisdom than I started with. Hence, if I had the chance to have a one-hour meeting with someone famous, I would pick Barack Obama.
You were recently recognized as one of the Top 25 Consumer and Retail Consultants and Leaders of 2024. Our readers would love to know the secret sauce behind your success.
Ah, thanks for acknowledging this achievement. I appreciate it. First, I am humbled to be included in this amazing group of professionals. There are so many accomplishments within this group. I am proud to be included and look forward to meeting many of these people in the near future. With respect to ‘secret sauce’ - there really isn’t any. I pride myself on being morally centered on a few key values in everything I do - both personally and professionally. My parents, mentors, and family have helped me understand that treating others as humans and being considerate of their feelings, emotions, and motivations in every interaction is how relationships and friendships are built. It is through these actions that trust is established. Once you obtain the level of trust - business is easy. As I mentioned, I am a strong believer in relationships and partnerships. I will be the first one to ask a competitor to partner to solve a client problem….I have no problem pushing the envelope on business decisions…..as long as I perform these actions in a manner that puts my clients and colleagues at the center. If there is any ‘secret sauce’ in my approachthat must be it!
Is there a particular person you are grateful for who helped get you to where you are?
Wow…another tough question. There are so many people that I am thankful to have in my life - both professionally and personally. My wife has been instrumental in supporting me and my career. She is my ‘rock’ and always provides me with a sense of perspective and support - offering up her time and opinions even when I am not asking. She has done an amazing job raising our (now) 21-year-old daughter and even she offers me similar perspectives and support on which I am proud of.
My guess is that it might be more appropriate to mention someone in my professional career that went out of their way to help me be successful and achieve the milestones that I have in my career. Someone that continues to be a close contact, friend, colleague, mentor, and coach. Someone that will make time for me and made an impact on my career. It is so challenging to narrow this down to one person, but I think I would have to pick Kelly Rogan. Kelly was my first manager when I was at Ernst & Young. She helped mentor me and coach me as I transitioned from college to my professional career. Kelly and I also developed a friendship that has lasted for over 25 years. Kelly recruited me to join her at CNA - to help transform that company. She took a risk on me and it paid off. Kelly also has never been shy of providing me with constructive feedback - feedback that is needed to develop and grow. This element of our relationship is probably what I am most grateful for…..especially in today’s professional culture of avoiding constructive feedback. Kelly has climbed the ladder in her career, most recently as a Corporate Vice President at Microsoft
- reporting to Satya Nadella. She recently took some time to spend with her family - her husband and three kids - and is currently the Chief Operating Officer of Ellucian. We stay in contact today and she just recently provided me with some coaching advice that I will continue to cherish through my career.
How do you keep your mind healthy and stay resilient? And how do you motivate your team?
This is an excellent question - glad you asked it. One thing I have found important in my life is to ensure that I focus on my mind, my body, and my family. I try to focus on each of these
on a daily basis. For my mind, I like to learn a new skill, challenge myself, listen to others, or listen to podcasts. I like to perform critical thinking exercises and enjoy the occasional yoga class. For my body, I am very active in sports. I used to play soccer and basketball - but a knee injury has limited my ability to continue these passions. I actively coach my kids in baseball and soccer. More recently I have really gotten into the Peloton and tennis. I play tennis at least 3-4 times a week. As for my family - I make time. It might be shuttling kids around or making sure I am present at the dinner table. Listening to my family and participating in their lives is a passion.
One thing I have found important in my life is to ensure that I focus on my mind, my body, and my family
Clients need help. Listening to their challenges, pain points, stories, and life will help you build relationships and build trust. These are the keys to being successful
What is your favorite quote?
I am not a ‘big quote guy’, but I seem to come back to Dr Suess’s Oh the Places You will Go quote: “Congratulations! Today is your day. You’re off to Great Places! You’re off and away!.....And will you succeed? Yes! You will, indeed!....Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So...get on your way!” It reminds me of my childhood, my high school graduation, reading to my kids when they were younger, and being resilient in my career.
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
Honestly, my hope is to continuing to do what I do today - helping retail and consumer clients solve their most challenging problems via collaborative partnership.
What advice would you give to anyone starting out on their career in your industry?
Listen. Learn. Be Bold.
Clients need help. Listening to their challenges, pain points, stories, and life will help you build relationships and build trust. These are the keys to being successful.
Never stop learning…. there is so much out there - especially in this constantly changing industry. Learn a technical skill, experience a guest speaker, read a book - whatever your passion keep focused on it.
Be Bold! One of my greatest learnings during my career is that you need to make decisions and being bold about the decisions you make is so much more important than not making the decision at all. Corporate politics will always get in the way - but if you remain bold and resilient while treating your client as a human - all will work out.
