03 May 2018 – 0:17
The Peninsula
DOHA: Microsoft Qatar yesterday announced the appointment of Lana Khalaf (pictured) as Country Manager, a role that will see her continue the company’s commitment to the nation and Vision 2030.
Lana Khalaf joined Microsoft in 2006, taking responsibility for empowering students and teachers across the Gulf region to achieve more through technology. Her efforts were focused towards fostering innovation, with strong emphasis on developing STEM skills among students, and capacity building for teachers and researchers.
In 2014, Khalaf became Microsoft Qatar’s Director of Public Sector, shaping the digital transformation journeys of organisations across the government, health and media sectors. Her work in Qatar also involved initiating strategic partnerships to nurture the nation’s 2030 Vision -not only with technology, but also through capacity building initiatives, SME enablement as well as powering research and innovation.
Khalaf steps into her new role, with focus to drive innovation across the country and support smart initiatives and digital transformation across a range of industries, using technologies such as mixed reality, artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things – engaging customers, empowering employees, optimize operations and transform products and services.
“With Qatar’s aspirations for its 2030 vision, the approaching FIFA soccer World Cup in 2022, and the launch of Smart City initiative TASMU – building a knowledgebase and a diversified economy is very Inspiring,” said Khalaf.
“The fourth Industrial revolution is upon us and opportunities are boundless for those who are prepared to digitally transform. That is the message I intend to bring to our customers and partners in the state of Qatar – empowering every person and organization to achieve more. To achieve this transformation, technology and security will be key enablers, but it is also as crucial to build the Qatar ecosystem to support this journey toward digital transformation through capacity building, stronger partner ecosystem, enabling SMEs and driving innovation.”
Before joining Microsoft, Khalaf held key roles in leading organisations helping them develop smart solutions and strategies for the digital workplace.
