Sherif Tawfik

Chief Partnership Officer G42 at Microsoft | CEO & Co-Founder, Fusion Minds AI

Microsoft

Sherif Tawfik Chief Partnership Officer - AI & Cloud for Sovereignty Microsoft Middle East, Africa, Central Eastern Europe, and Central Asia Sherif is a tech industry veteran with over 25 years of experience, known for driving success and creating value for people, profit, and the planet. His leadership is defined by a commitment to impact and purpose, enabling significant contributions throughout his career. As the Chief Partnership Officer for AI & Cloud for Sovereignty, Sherif leads initiatives across more than half of the world's countries. His work advances responsible AI and Cloud adoption, transforming emerging nations. This mission supports global growth, economic prosperity, skills development, startup ecosystems, and job creation, all while ensuring ethical AI use. Previously, Sherif was the Chief Sustainability Commercial Officer for Microsoft Central Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa, leading the commercial strategy for Microsoft Cloud for Sustainability and driving the ESG Data Estate digital solutions. He also served as the Chief Business Strategy Officer for the Middle East & Africa, contributing to significant business growth. Sherif held the role of Executive Director for Commercial Partners & Channel Business in the UAE, leading strategic alliances and B2B startup growth. As the Regional General Manager for Microsoft Bahrain and Oman, he empowered diverse audiences, including governments, enterprises, and start-ups. Starting at Microsoft Egypt in 2000 as an Internet Solutions Specialist, Sherif moved to Microsoft Gulf in 2003 as a Senior Consultant in Dubai. He then set up a Regional Shared Services Center at the Middle East & Africa headquarters and served as Regional Director for Cloud Solutions Sales for Microsoft Middle East and Africa. With extensive experience spanning technology consulting, cloud solutions sales, general management, sustainability, AI, strategy, and partnerships, Sherif bridges technology, business, and social impact. He holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering & computer science from Ain Shams University, Egypt, and an Executive MBA from London Business School, where he was in the top 10% of his class. Sherif has received numerous awards, including five of Microsoft's Circle of Excellence Platinum Awards and the 'Chairman Award' presented by Bill Gates. His journey is a testament to his dedication to impactful leadership and his belief in technology's power to create a better, more sustainable world.