Saad Toma

Saad Toma is the General Manager of IBM Middle East and Africa, where he leads the company’s growth and innovation across technology sales, consulting, technical communities, and IBM Research. He is deeply committed to advancing IBM’s success in the region by focusing on client relationships, talent development, and transformative technologies like AI and hybrid cloud. His leadership has been key in IBM’s strategic pivot to AI, including the launch of watsonx, positioning IBM as a leader in AI-powered enterprise solutions.

Saad is a highly sought-after advisor and thought leader in Hybrid Cloud, AI for Business, Sustainability, and Automation strategies. Under his leadership, IBM has significantly expanded its regional presence. Key milestones include the opening of new headquarters and a software lab in Saudi Arabia, a joint AI research collaboration with MBZUAI in the UAE, and plans for AI Centres of Excellence with DMCC in Dubai and Al Baha University in Saudi Arabia. Additionally, during his tenure, IBM has led several strategic partnerships with leading clients like Riyadh Air, e&, Saudi Data and AI Authority.

Saad is a global leader with extensive experience across the Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific, UK, and Europe. Known for his strategic foresight and cultural awareness, he has built strong relationships and driven business success in these regions. He also serves on the Board of the American Turkish Society, contributing to governance and fostering cross-border collaboration.

Prior to this, Saad held senior roles including General Manager for IBM Asia Pacific’s Global Technology Services and Chief Operating Officer for GTS globally. He also led IBM operations in Canada and EMEA.

Saad holds degrees from Oxford Brookes University and the University of Southampton, along with executive education from Harvard University. Outside of work, Saad enjoys spending time with his family, playing tennis, theatre and traveling.