Critical data is the backbone of modern enterprises, yet many organizations struggle to balance compliance requirements with the need for agility and innovation. This session will explore practical strategies for building a critical data management framework that ensures regulatory alignment, strengthens data integrity, and creates measurable business value.

Key discussion points will include:

• Establishing governance structures that embed compliance into daily operations.
• Leveraging automation and analytics to proactively monitor and remediate data quality issues.
• Aligning critical data management with enterprise risk frameworks to enhance resilience.
• Turning compliance into a competitive advantage by enabling trusted insights for executive decision-making.

Participants will leave with actionable approaches to transform critical data from a regulatory obligation into a strategic asset that drives confidence, efficiency, and growth.

Speaker: Syed Ali, Director, Audit Data & Information Management, USAA

Syed M. Ali is an executive leader in Data Audit, Governance, and Risk Analytics with over 16 years of Fortune 500 experience. He currently serves as Director of Audit – Data & Information Management at USAA, where he drives enterprise-wide frameworks that strengthen compliance, enhance data integrity, and deliver actionable insights to senior leadership. Syed has a proven track record of implementing BCBS 239 standards, leading multimillion-dollar governance programs, and advising CFOs and Boards on risk aggregation strategies. Beyond corporate leadership, Syed is an Adjunct Professor of Financial Analytics at the University of Texas at San Antonio, bridging academic research with real-world execution and mentoring the next generation of data leaders. He holds advanced degrees in Data Analytics and an MBA, along with certifications including CISA, CISM, CIMP and CompTIA Data+. Syed is recognized for his principled leadership, operational excellence, and commitment to empowering organizations through data-driven innovation.

Speaker: Michael Noriega, Senior Data Auditor, USAA

Michael is a Senior Auditor on the Data and Information Management Team at USAA. Since joining USAA in 2017, he has held roles in Auto Insurance Servicing, New Member Acquisition, and Risk Management, contributing to process improvements and operational risk initiatives. Michael completed the Senior Development Program and two Development Rotations, including work with Business Process Owners and the Enterprise Operational Risk Management team. He has been an active leader in the Adelante Employee Impact Group, serving as Tampa Chapter President and currently as National Vice President. Prior to USAA, Michael spent 14 years at Best Buy in leadership roles across Sales, Operations, and General Management, including planning four successful store openings. He holds a Bachelor’s in Business Management and a Master’s in Management and Leadership, along with multiple professional certifications, and is pursuing the Certified Internal Auditor designation.