Executive Dinner

Grant Ecker is a senior technology executive leading Enterprise Architecture and Integration at Ecolab, managing a global team of architects and integration leaders. With 20+ years of experience, he drives transformation and innovation across billion-dollar IT portfolios, building proactive architecture communities and aligning technology strategy with business value. Grant is also the Founder and Chairman of the Chief Architect Network, the largest vendor-neutral community for Chief Architect executives, connecting 600+ members across 400+ Fortune 500 companies. Through this network, he leads global virtual and in-person events, sponsors specialized topic groups, promotes diversity in architecture, and shares thought leadership via publications and conferences, further advancing the profession and enabling architects worldwide to drive impactful business outcomes.

An international keynote speaker, Microsoft MVP, ASPInsider, MCSD, PSM II, PSD, PSPO, and PST, and a passionate member of the developer community, Phil Japikse has been working with .NET since the first betas, developing software for over 35 years, and heavily involved in the agile community since 2005 as well as a Professional Scrum Trainer. Phil has taken over the best-selling Pro C# books (Apress Publishing), including "Pro C# 10", is the Lead Director for the Cincinnati .NET User’s Group and the Cincinnati Software Architect Group, co-hosted the Hallway Conversations podcast, founded and runs the CincyDeliver conference, and volunteers for the National Ski Patrol. During the day, Phil works as the CTO for Pintas & Mullins. Phil always enjoys learning new tech and is always striving to improve his craft. You can follow Phil on Twitter and read his blog.

Nelson Soares is a dynamic entrepreneur and executive with extensive experience in leadership, consulting, and strategic partnerships. As the Founder & CEO of C-Vision International, Nelson has played a key role in organizing high-profile events for C-suite executives globally. With a focus on innovation and go-to-market strategies, he has helped early-stage startups, particularly from Israel, bridge the gap between technical expertise and business acumen. His work in guiding these companies has made C-Vision a trusted partner in the business world. In addition to his role at C-Vision, Nelson is the Founder and CEO of NS Advisory Group Inc., where he helps organizations scale and succeed. He serves as a CXO advisor to various startups and established solution providers, guiding them through critical growth stages. Nelson's expertise spans cybersecurity and information technology, with a global presence overseeing teams in EMEA, LATAM, and APAC, while managing complex sales goals across major U.S. cities. He also holds an Executive Board position at Pocket Security, a non-profit organization. Beyond his professional responsibilities, Nelson is deeply committed to mentorship and team development, emphasizing resilience, accountability, and fostering strong team dynamics. Outside of work, he is passionate about fitness and enjoys spending time with his wife Deimile and their two daughters, Skyla and Savannah.