IT Wave: AI • Talent • Ecosystem is an event for those who make decisions today and shape what Odesa’s IT ecosystem will look like tomorrow.

We are living in a moment when change happens faster than ready-made answers appear.
AI is already transforming business and delivery.
Talent shortage is becoming systemic.
Competition for people, clients, and investment is intensifying.
Meanwhile, business, education, and R&D are still not always speaking the same language.

That is why IT Wave is more than just a conference.

It is a strategic gathering of leaders where a shared vision of reality is formed, honest conversations take place, and initiatives are launched that continue beyond the event itself.

What to expect:
— A public discussion on investments, AI, and talent — without illusions or loud slogans
— Real AI implementation cases across industries
— A closed leadership track for CEOs, CTOs, and delivery leaders
— A strategic session where ecosystem-level decisions are shaped

IT Wave is the place where Odesa’s IT community synchronizes.
Where it’s important not only to listen — but to align.
Not only to discuss — but to define the next steps.

If it matters to you not just to participate in the market, but to help shape it — this event is for you.

IT Wave is a strategic platform by Odesa IT Family shaping the future of technology and innovation-driven business in Southern Ukraine.

We host the conference on a regular basis creating a space for systemic dialogue between company leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, educational institutions, and ecosystem stakeholders.

IT Wave is not just an event.
It is a concentration point for decisions.

This is where the conversation goes beyond trends and focuses on real instruments of growth:

— practical implementation of AI in business and delivery
— transformation of talent strategies
— scaling companies with a strong digital component
— partnerships between business, education, and public institutions
— the role of technology in regional and national economic development

IT Wave brings together decision-makers who shape markets rather than simply respond to them.

We are building an environment where technology businesses in Southern Ukraine do not merely adapt to change — they drive it.

Eric is the founder and head of HUG’S, a fintech startup specializing in asset management on global securities markets. With 25+ years of experience in international investments and capital management.

A professional with 24 years of experience in IT and 19 years in the automotive industry, combining deep technical expertise with strong delivery and leadership capabilities. The technical foundation is built on seven years of hands-on software development experience, enabling effective collaboration with engineering teams and confident decision-making in complex technical environments. Has a proven track record of leading complex, multi-year software programs for global automotive OEMs and Tier-1 suppliers. Specializes in scaling delivery organizations, managing large distributed teams, and ensuring predictable, high-quality execution in technically and commercially demanding environments.

Ambassador of systematic management and a data-driven approach in business. Forbes 30 Under 30 | 2025. Over nearly 10 years with the company, progressed from Assistant Commercial Director to CEO of a group of agencies with a team of over 600 specialists. Key business focuses include building a large, system-driven company with global recognition and developing the team as the core asset of a B2B business.

Has 20 years of experience in IT and 15 years in technology sales. Previously worked at Microsoft and other international IT companies, where he was involved in the implementation of cloud, security, and AI solutions for businesses. Author of proprietary courses on Microsoft 365 cloud services and cybersecurity, with a strong focus on the practical application of artificial intelligence, taking into account security and real business value. Advocates the view that AI without strategy and security is an expensive experiment rather than a true transformation.

He has 15 years of experience in management, including over 10 years dedicated to developing educational initiatives in the IT and digital sectors. He specializes in implementing modern teaching methods and technologies that help not only students, but also businesses and educational organizations stay ahead and keep pace with industry trends.

He has over 20 years of experience in IT. Skilled in building teams from 3 to 100 people, and has taken part in managing teams of more than 1,000 employees. Experienced in both service and product companies

A tax and business expert. Dmytro specializes in tax planning and optimization at both national and international levels. His expertise helps companies reduce tax burdens, navigate constantly changing legislation, and scale to international markets. With extensive experience working with IT companies, he deeply understands the legal and financial challenges innovative businesses face. He assists startups and tech giants in structuring operations, protecting their interests, and growing in highly competitive environments

Natalia drives technology strategy, cross-cluster innovation, and the adoption of emerging technologies across Eastern Europe. Based in Odesa, she works closely with engineering and business leaders to deliver high-value transformation programs and contribute to Capgemini Engineering’s broader innovation agenda. With more than 20 years at Capgemini Engineering and extensive experience in managerial roles, Natalia brings deep technological expertise, strategic vision, and a strong commitment to excellence, enabling sustainable growth and innovation across the region.

Serhii has worked across various areas of the IT industry, leading financial services development projects in Ukraine, the Czech Republic, and Hungary. He has managed teams of up to 1,000 specialists, giving him a deep understanding of managing large teams and complex projects. In addition to technical expertise, he is also responsible for client acquisition and communication with defense sector agencies, making him a unique expert in strategic partnerships and business development.

She has extensive experience in providing full legal support to IT companies — from structuring contractual relationships and protecting intellectual property to developing privacy policies and ensuring GDPR compliance.

PhD in Law, Associate Professor, Expert of the National Agency for Higher Education Quality Assurance

Has over 7 years of experience in email and retention marketing, successfully delivering 35+ projects in these areas. Contributed to building the department from scratch and scaling the team from 0 to 30+ specialists. Has collaborated with market leaders such as PUMA, ATB, Pandora, and others. Active speaker and author of expert-level content.

A leader with experience in economics, law, and public policy. Since 2023, he has headed the Odesa Regional Employment Center, coordinating a team that implements modern approaches to labor market development in the region. Together with the employment service team, he drives the digital transformation of services, the integration of artificial intelligence tools, and the development of innovative formats of engagement with job seekers and employers. The Center’s team is focused on adapting Odesa’s employment system to the challenges of wartime and shaping solutions for post-war economic recovery and human capital development. Technology and AI are viewed as practical tools to enhance services, strengthen partnerships with businesses, and build a modern, flexible labor market.

Has many years of experience in the insurance industry, having worked at one of the leading insurance companies in Ukraine that implements modern solutions for businesses and private clients. Actively applies advanced technologies and innovative approaches, contributing to the development of the insurance market. Is an expert in corporate health insurance and serves as the project manager for the insurance program of employees of SE “Energoatom” – one of the largest voluntary health insurance (VHI) projects in the Ukrainian market.

He works on attracting investments, developing international partnerships, and implementing innovations in the recovery and modernization of the regional economy. He is the initiator of cluster-based and innovation ecosystems, including an international startup accelerator and the Southern Ukraine Reconstruction Cluster. He is a speaker at national and international forums on innovation, economic development, and digital transformation.

Has over 14 years of experience in the banking sector and more than 6 years of leadership in data and analytics teams. Founded and leads enterprise-level Data and AI teams from the ground up. As a key driver of digital transformation, has successfully implemented data governance and data management strategies that improve efficiency, accuracy, and customer experience. Actively contributes to the development of the national AI strategy, ethics, education, and public-private partnerships. Member of the Privacy Committee of the International Association of Advisors (IAA), advocating for ethical data practices and high standards of privacy protection in the financial sector.