Chris Yates is Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Data & Architecture at Republic Bank, where he leads enterprise data strategy, architecture, governance, analytics, and AI data readiness initiatives. With more than 25 years of experience in technology and financial services, he focuses on transforming data into a trusted strategic asset that supports business growth, operational excellence, and informed decision-making. Yates is a Microsoft Data Platform MVP and Microsoft Regional Director and is an active speaker, mentor, and contributor to the global technology community. He also writes about technology, data, and leadership at ChrisYatesSQL.com.