Christian J. Ward is the Executive Vice President and Chief Data Officer at Yext focused on the expanding applications of knowledge graphs and data asset optimization. His focus is to help Yext clients identify, value, and structure their knowledge graphs to maximize their data value.

Ward is the co-author of the Amazon top release Data Leverage: Unlocking the Surprising Growth Potential of Data Partnerships and has developed and executed hundreds of data partnerships around the world, from small entrepreneurial firms to the world’s largest data companies. Ward has served as Chief Data Officer of SourceMedia, Chief Data Officer of Infogroup, and Global Head of Content Innovation at Thomson Reuters, among other roles. He has been quoted in publications like the Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Fortune, GeoMarketing, StreetFight, and Search Engine Journal and he speaks frequently on data strategy, partnerships, and the future influence of data.

Ruby Au is the Head of North America at Ecosia, where she is responsible for the green search engine's market strategy and growth across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Prior to joining Ecosia, Ruby worked as a tech founder in Nairobi's social impact & startup scene. After exiting her company, she went on to launch African operations for alternative Linux-based operating system, Endless OS. Ruby holds dual degrees in Business and Environmental Science from the University of Southern California, and is a strong advocate for the development of social business theory, conscious capitalism, inclusive tech, and regenerative development.