What motivated you to work in cloud computing and tech strategy?

My motivation stems from a desire to be at the forefront of driving significant transformation for businesses globally. I have a track record of leading the strategy, structuring, and negotiation of complex opportunities with major customers and partners. My experience at both SAP and now at Google’s Global Strategic Initiatives (GSI), particularly within Google Cloud, allows me to work on the largest and most impactful projects, influencing the digital landscape in EMEA and beyond. The move into cloud computing and tech strategy was a natural progression, given the increasing centrality of cloud technologies in enabling innovation and growth for enterprises worldwide.

How did your early experiences shape your leadership approach?

My early experiences, particularly my legal background and my time spent in various leadership positions across diverse regions like Europe, China, the Middle East, and Africa, have profoundly shaped my leadership approach. My legal training instilled in me a meticulous approach to structuring complex transactions and a keen awareness of risk mitigation. Working across different cultures has cultivated a deep appreciation for diversity and inclusion and the importance of cultural fluency in connecting effectively with a wide range of customers and partners. Furthermore, leading the Legal Department for SAP in The Netherlands provided me with management experience and a comprehensive understanding of the legal and commercial aspects of technology solutions. My involvement with the Business Women’s Network at SAP in the UAE also reinforced my passion for mentoring and fostering career advancement. These experiences have shaped a leadership style that is strategic, inclusive, and results-oriented, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and understanding diverse perspectives.

What is Google Cloud’s vision for AI and cloud transformation globally?

Google Cloud’s vision for AI and cloud transformation globally appears to be centered around delivering the best of Google Cloud and broader Alphabet technologies to drive industry-wide transformation. This includes enabling new digital experiences and building new business models for leading companies, ultimately fueling Google Cloud’s market presence. A key element of this vision is a “full stack approach” to AI, encompassing extraordinary talent, advanced models (like Gemini), cutting-edge chips (TPUs), and seamless integration across various platforms. The focus is on applying generative AI to enhance core products like Search for deeper and richer user engagement, as well as empowering the Enterprise and public sector to transform their businesses through improved customer engagement, efficiency gains, and enhanced risk analytics. Google Cloud aims to be an “assist” and provide “augmented intelligence” for organizations, enabling them to achieve significant operating leverage. This global vision also involves significant investment in technical infrastructure, such as data centers and subsea cables, to link up the world and support digital transformation efforts in various countries.

How do you see cloud technology shaping businesses in the coming years?

Cloud technology will continue to be a fundamental driver of business evolution. It provides the scalable and flexible infrastructure necessary for companies to adopt emerging technologies like AI, enabling them to radically rethink their business processes and interactions. Cloud will be crucial for achieving operating efficiencies, enhancing customer engagement, and improving risk analytics. Realizing the full potential of AI requires a comprehensive rethinking of business elements, not just the adoption of chatbots. Cloud technology will also facilitate the creation of new digital experiences and business models, allowing companies to innovate and stay competitive in a rapidly changing landscape. The ability to leverage the power of AI through cloud platforms will be particularly transformative, offering opportunities for automation, personalization, and deeper insights.

Can you share a strategic initiative that significantly impacted enterprises?

A key strategic initiative involves partnering with the world’s leading companies to drive industry-wide transformation. This encompasses delivering the breadth of Google Cloud and Alphabet’s capabilities to help these enterprises build new business models and deliver innovative digital experiences. Our recent partnership with Vodafone and the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia that I helped shape was really groundbreaking. The very nature of my work at Google is to focus on these large, most complex opportunities that have the potential for significant and broad impact across enterprises and industries. 

What are the biggest challenges companies face in cloud adoption?

One significant challenge is the need for companies to radically rethink every element of their business to truly realize the economic upside of cloud and AI. Simply adopting the technology without this fundamental re-evaluation will limit the potential benefits. Another crucial challenge is ensuring the security and resilience of cloud infrastructure and data. Building in robust defenses and adopting a zero-trust approach are essential in an increasingly challenging cyber landscape. The inherent complexities of integrating new cloud technologies with existing legacy systems can also pose a significant hurdle for many enterprises.

How do you balance innovation with security in cloud computing?

The balance between innovation and security in cloud computing is paramount. It’s about maximizing upside while having appropriate guardrails and controls. This principle applies equally to cloud computing. Security must be integrated into the very fabric of innovation, rather than being an afterthought. This involves adopting a “zero trust” approach to cyber security and continuously fortifying defenses. Proactive measures to prevent issues are far more effective than addressing them after they occur. By building resilience into the technical infrastructure, including data center redundancy and robust cyber security defenses, we can provide a secure foundation that enables and supports rapid innovation.

What leadership skills are crucial for success in global tech strategy?

Based on my experiences and the insights shared, several leadership skills are crucial for success in global tech strategy. A strategic mindset and the ability to navigate complex landscapes are essential for identifying opportunities and driving impactful initiatives. Strong negotiation and structuring skills are critical for closing large, complex deals. Cultural fluency and the ability to connect effectively with diverse teams and customers across different regions are paramount in a global role. Furthermore, a commitment to fostering inclusion and open-mindedness is vital for building high-performing teams and effective partnerships. In addition, a long-term vision and the ability to invest aggressively for the future are also crucial. Finally, the ability to leverage data and analytics for informed decision-making is increasingly important.

How does Google Cloud contribute to sustainability and green computing?

Google Cloud’s is building the world’s most energy-efficient computing infrastructure, while advancing water stewardship, and strengthening energy grids in communities — all driving toward our global goal of net-zero emissions by 2030. Google invests heavily in renewable energy projects, such as solar and wind power, to power its data centers. I am very proud that Google shares its technology and knowledge with organizations around the world to support their transition to more sustainable practices.

Where do you see cloud technology evolving in the next decade

Cloud technology in the next decade will be heavily influenced by the continued advancements and integration of Artificial Intelligence. We can expect to see more sophisticated AI-powered cloud services that provide augmented intelligence and automation across various business functions. The concept of “agentic AI”, where AI can proactively work on behalf of users and organizations, suggests a future where cloud platforms become even more intelligent and autonomous. Furthermore, advancements in quantum computing, while still in early stages, hold the potential to revolutionize the computational capabilities accessible through the cloud, enabling breakthroughs in areas like biology and complex data analysis. The focus on global connectivity and digital transformation will also continue to drive the evolution of cloud infrastructure and services worldwide.

What advice would you give young professionals entering cloud computing?

I would encourage young professionals entering cloud computing to embrace a mindset of continuous learning. The field is rapidly evolving, so staying curious and actively seeking new knowledge is crucial. I would say, “just start experimenting” and playing with the technologies to gain practical experience. Developing strong analytical skills and the ability to work with data is also essential. Furthermore, I would emphasize the importance of cultivating strong communication and collaboration skills, as cloud solutions often involve working with diverse teams and clients. Finally, seek out mentors and build your professional network; having experienced guidance can be invaluable for career growth.

What are your long-term career aspirations?

My long-term career aspirations remain focused on driving significant strategic impact within the technology sector, particularly being part of a publicly traded board in order to share my insights. I am deeply passionate about leveraging technology to solve complex business challenges and facilitate global digital transformation.. Furthermore, my commitment to diversity and inclusion remains a key aspect of my professional goals, and I aim to continue contributing to the advancement of women and underrepresented groups within the industry. Ultimately, I aspire to continue leading and shaping impactful initiatives that contribute to the growth and innovation of the society while fostering a more inclusive and equitable environment.