Peter Bachhiesl Mathematician Kärnten University of Applied Science

Peter Bachhiesl is a mathematician. He studied and worked at Graz Technical University and earned his doctorate in a special research domain on mathematical optimization and control. After his employment as a development engineer in the automotive sector, he obtained the position of a lecturer at the Carinthia University of Applied Sciences. In 2002 he was appointed as a  full professor for engineering mathematics and stochastics. In his research and development activities he works on industrial applications of combinatorial optimization and mixed-integer linear programming. In this context he co-founded a core competence field on network optimization and -simulation, which focuses on the development and the industrial transfer of decision-support models for the design of fiber-optic access networks. He led numerous development projects in collaboration with network carriers as well as regulation authorities.

Reinhard Bürgy Mathematical Optimization Scientist Polypoint

Dr. Reinhard Bürgy is a mathematical optimization scientist and software solution architect with extensive experience in both academia and industry. He specializes in personnel and machine scheduling, with a deep passion for the intersection of business processes, software technology, mathematical modeling, and algorithmic design.

At POLYPOINT, Reinhard leverages his expertise to enhance decision-making in healthcare personnel scheduling. He has played a key role in translating complex operations research theories into practical, real-world applications, significantly improving the efficiency and effectiveness of scheduling processes in the healthcare sector.

Michael Guder Chief Technology Officer Levasoft

Michael Guder is the CTO of Levasoft GmbH and the original creator of the Solar.Pro.Tool – an advanced software solution for planning flat-roof PV systems. With a strong background in software architecture and specialized algorithmic development, he focuses on transforming complex technical challenges into scalable solutions. At Levasoft, he integrates the GUROBI Solver to tackle high-dimensional optimization problems in PV ballast planning and inverter configuration. His work bridges engineering logic with computational efficiency, enabling precise results even in multi-million solution spaces. Michael leads innovation from concept to product, pushing the boundaries of digital PV system design.

Shrya Gupta Danone

An accomplished analytics leader with over 15 years of experience, I specialize in driving data-powered decision-making and delivering high-impact AI solutions across diverse domains. Known for a consultative and results-oriented approach, I collaborate closely with senior leadership to shape and execute AI strategies that align with business goals. Passionate about innovation, I’ve successfully transformed AI visions into reality, fuelling strategic growth and competitive advantage. At this global event, I’m excited to present the Deep Blue use case — an initiative that exemplifies how advanced analytics and AI can unlock transformative value for organizations worldwide.

Daniel Herrero Chief Operating Officer Decide4AI

Daniel Herrero has over 10 years of experience in mathematical optimization, with a strong focus on the application of advanced algorithms to complex business problems. He has led the development and deployment of optimisation solutions in sectors such as logistics, energy, and telecommunications, achieving measurable improvements in efficiency, cost reduction, and operational performance.

As Chief Operating Officer at DECIDE, he is responsible for driving the company’s operational and technological strategy, with particular emphasis on the practical use of artificial intelligence and prescriptive analytics in high-impact environments. His work bridges technical depth and business value, enabling data-driven decision-making across complex systems.

Ahmet Esat Hizir Director of Operations Research Turkish Airlines

Ahmet Esat Hızır, PhD., is the Director of Operations Research at Turkish Airlines Technology. His team of Operations Research scientists develop mathematical models and solution methods for various optimization problems at Turkish Airlines. He has more than 18 years of airline industry experience. He holds BSc. and MSc. degrees in Industrial Engineering and an MSc. degree in Air Transport Management. He received his PhD degree from Massachusetts Institute of Technology. With his dissertation titled “Large Scale Airline Recovery using Supervised Learning and Mixed-Integer Optimization” he was granted the “Best Innovation” award at 2024 AGIFORS Crew Management Study Goup Meeting.

Paula Mansilla Martinez Head of Finance, Network, HR & Corporate in Data & AI Iberia

Paula Mansilla is Head of Finance, Network, HR & Corporate in Data & AI at Iberia, where she leads the strategic development of data-driven solutions across these areas. With 10 years of experience in Business Intelligence and Big Data, she has successfully managed cross-functional teams and complex transformation projects. With international experience across Spain and the UK, and an MBA from ICADE Business School, she bridges the gap between technical capabilities and business impact, helping organizations unlock value through smart data use and process improvement.

Johannes Prescher Head of IT & Tools Network-Team A1 Telekom

Johannes is the Head of IT & Tools in A1 Telekom Austria AGs Network-Team. Together with his team he provides tools and support for engineers working in the field for A1 customers, as well as tools and support to run, extend and optimize A1s mobile and fixed infrastructure.