Christian Álvarez Peláez Researcher Reganosa

Christian studied Physics at the University of Oviedo and completed a Master's in Statistics at the University of Santiago de Compostela. He is an expert in data science, optimization, and applied mathematics, particularly in the energy sector. His responsibilities include data processing and analysis, building neural networks and clustering algorithms, as well as developing and researching ML models and optimization techniques. Currently, he is creating new features with strong mathematical foundations for Reganosa's digital solutions through data analysis, ML, AI, and mathematical optimization.

Hans Martin Espegren ML/Data Science Team Lead BAMA

Hans Martin Espegren is the Head of Data Science at BAMA, the largest distributor of fruit and vegetables in the Nordics. With extensive experience in machine learning and optimization within mobility and logistics, Hans Martin has been instrumental in advancing BAMA's digital transformation over the past four years. Under his leadership, BAMA has developed a modern data platform and successfully implemented multiple machine learning models and optimization algorithms, generating significant business value.

Matthijs Kieskamp Data Science Leader KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

Matthijs holds a master’s in industrial engineering with a strong focus on Operations Research. For 9 years working at KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, he has built a thorough understanding of the airline industry. Always focused on data science topics, some of his past highlights include: 

• Building KLM's first real-time streaming prediction model 
• Contributing to KLM's first engine that combines ML-based predictions with OR-based optimization 

• Building an AI-driven disruption management solver at a major US airline as part of the Digital Airline Operations partnership with Boston Consulting Group 

Wendell Kuling Manager Data Science & Analytics Jumbo Supermarkten

Wendell Kuling is a senior Data and Analytics executive with over 25 years of experience. He has successfully led high-performing teams in data science, analytics and operational excellence. Currently serving as the Manager of Data Science and Analytics at Jumbo Supermarkten, Wendell focuses on accelerating data transformation through concrete use cases and modern technology. Jumbo, a leading supermarket chain in the Netherlands and Belgium, prioritizes a “customers first, data second” approach to data and analytics. 

Dr. Kunal Kumar, PhD Principal Data Scientist KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

Kunal Kumar is a data science leader with over 9 years of experience applying advanced analytics to solve complex problems across aviation, manufacturing, supply chain, and humanitarian logistics. At KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, he leverages his expertise to accelerate digital transformation and has played a key role in developing over 10 decision-support tools that significantly impact various operational domains.   His influence extends beyond KLM. Through their partnership with Boston Consulting Group, Kunal shares his expertise, helping global airlines harness the power of optimization. He is also passionate about advancing the field and actively contributes to AI research at Utrecht University, where he co-leads a project focused on building robust airline operations. 

Dr. Sara Neira Castro Researcher Reganosa

Sara holds a PhD in Nuclear Physics.  After graduating in Physics from the University of Santiago de Compostela, she further specialized in numerical simulation with a master's in Industrial Mathematics.

With four years of research experience, Sara completed her thesis in Medical Physics and Biomathematics, working on the development of mathematical models and Monte Carlo simulations for molecular radiotherapy,

which led to several publications. Since 2022, she has been a researcher at Reganosa, focusing on the development of digital mathematical tools to improve energy efficiency, particularly through the definition and implementation of optimization algorithms.

Martine Rønneberg Data Scientist BAMA

Martine Rønneberg is a Data Scientist at BAMA, the largest distributor of fruit and vegetables in the Nordics. She had the main responsibility for developing our MILP optimization model. With two years at BAMA and several years of experience as a data science consultant, Martine brings strong expertise in mathematical optimization. She holds a master’s degree from NTNU, where she specialized in optimization. Martine has been essential in enhancing BAMA's logistics and transport efficiency through advanced data science techniques.

Dr. Z. Caner Taşkın ICRON’s Chief Technology Officer

This topic is presented by Dr. Z. Caner Taşkın – ICRON’s Chief Technology Officer and a Professor in the Department of Industrial Engineering at Boğaziçi University – who specializes in large-scale mixed-integer programming and supply chain optimization software solutions. Caner received his Ph.D. from the University of Florida. He was named the recipient of the 2010 Pritsker Doctoral Dissertation Award given by the Institute of Industrial Engineers (IIE) and his research has been published in many leading Operations Research journals.

Iris van Heck Data Scientist Jumbo Supermarkten

Iris van Heck is a Data Scientist at Jumbo Supermarkten. With a strong academic background in Industrial and Applied Mathematics, Iris has a deep understanding of mathematical optimization and its practical applications. Currently, Iris is focusing on empowering business decision-making through mathematical optimization in various business domains.