Ildar Akhmerov is an SAP S/4HANA transition architect with more than two decades of hands-on SAP experience and over a decade dedicated to architecting, executing, and safeguarding transition projects to SAP S/4HANA. As part of SAP’s Data Management and Landscape Transformation (DMLT) organization, he specializes in selective data transition projects, leveraging deep expertise in data migration and transformation methodologies and tools and TOGAF-based architecture methods. He has contributed to the SAP S/4HANA transition practical guide and is an active member of the SDT partner community. Earlier in his career, he built end-to-end delivery experience across roles in support, consulting, service delivery, and team leadership—perspectives he brings to the design and execution of large-scale migration programs. Based in Barcelona, Ildar is married with two children and enjoys playing guitar, running, snowboarding, and attending live music concerts.

Stefano Castiglioni is the consulting director in SAP’s Data Management and Landscape Transformation (DMLT) organization. He began his SAP career in 1999, joined SAP in 2007, and has led major transformation programs for large companies since 2010.

He was born in 1973 in Saronno and raised in the picturesque region near Lake Como. He pursued his academic interests at the University of Milan, where he was awarded a bachelor's degree in experimental physics. His strong analytical skills and dedication to scientific inquiry laid the foundation for his subsequent professional journey. Stefano embarked on his SAP career in 1999, gaining valuable experience and technical expertise within the sector. In 2007, he officially joined SAP, where he further developed his leadership capabilities and strategic vision. Since 2010, Stefano has successfully managed and directed major transformation programs for prominent multinational corporations, consistently delivering impactful results and fostering innovation. Currently residing in Milan, he is married and maintains a keen interest in football and Latin American music, which reflect his vibrant personality and diverse cultural appreciation. Stefano’s commitment to personal and professional growth, combined with his passion for technology and people, has distinguished him as a respected leader within the SAP community. 

Avinash Janakiraman is a senior director at SAP America Inc., specializing in data management and landscape transformation (DMLT) with over 21 years of experience in SAP. The DMLT group in SAP originated and owns the selective data transition (SDT) tools and methodology. Avinash is the co-lead with Stefano Castiglioni for the DMLT Business Area, Transition into Business Suite, of which SDT is a part. Avinash and Stefano lead the team that is responsible for defining the software tools, delivery methodology, developing automation capabilities, and engaging with the partner community.

Previously, Avinash Janakiraman served as solution architect for DMLT at SAP America, where he defined the solution architecture and led the successful deployment of SDT projects at large organizations. Avinash holds a master’s degree in data analytics from Penn State University, USA and a bachelor’s degree in computer science engineering from Bharathiar University, India. He frequently contributes to articles and blogs in the SAP Community. When not working on selective data transition, he can be found playing tennis or table tennis with his teenage son.