Microsoft announced on 15 September 2011 the promotion of Ali Faramawy to the position of Corporate Vice President of Microsoft Corporation and President of Microsoft Middle East and Africa. The promotion comes in recognition of Faramawy’s strong leadership and his contribution to fuelling growth across the region. It also underlines the growing role of MEA as an area contributing to the overall success of Microsoft.

The Middle East is one of the 13 “areas” comprising Microsoft's worldwide operations. The area represents one of Microsoft's fastest growing and most dynamic markets – and certainly its most diverse. Microsoft MEA is has 32 offices representing 79 countries across three continents.

Faramawy has led the region for seven years and in that time has consistently proven his ability to drive impact at the highest level and achieve long-term growth. His previous title was Vice President of Microsoft International and President of Microsoft Middle East and Africa.

He was one of main supervisors of the learning programme that educated 12 million students through Microsoft’s Partners plan, helping individuals and communities gain access to the technological tools, skills and innovation they needed to realise their full potential.

“I am very proud to be a part of Microsoft in the Middle East and Africa right now, during a time of great challenge and opportunity for the region. There is incredible potential in MEA with its young population. We will continue to focus on the acceleration of talent development, equipping them with the right tools, opportunities, knowledge and infrastructure, as a skilled and well-trained workforce is essential for economic growth and stability,” said Faramawy.