Microsoft announced a key leadership shift on Wednesday, appointing Mirna Arif as General Manager for Middle East and Africa Growth Markets, a newly expanded role that underscores the company’s strategic focus on emerging economies.
Arif, who has served as General Manager of Microsoft Egypt since 2020, will now oversee operations across a portfolio of high-potential markets including Egypt, Kenya, Nigeria, Morocco, Oman, and Bahrain. The move comes as Microsoft doubles down on its commitment to accelerating digital transformation, expanding AI and cloud adoption, and fostering inclusive economic growth across the broader MEA region.
Leadership With a Regional Vision
Arif brings more than 20 years of cross-sector experience across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Since assuming leadership of Microsoft Egypt, she has played a central role in transforming the country’s digital landscape—advancing public-private partnerships, expanding digital skills training, and promoting the adoption of cloud technologies across key sectors.
Her new regional post places her at the forefront of Microsoft’s operations in some of the world’s fastest-growing digital economies, where infrastructure gaps, rising demand for technology, and youth-driven innovation present both challenges and immense opportunities.
“Mirna Arif has consistently demonstrated the vision and execution necessary to lead in complex, dynamic markets,” a Microsoft spokesperson said. “Her appointment reflects our deep commitment to empowering growth markets through strong, localized leadership.”
Microsoft’s Expanding Footprint in Africa and the Middle East
Microsoft has significantly expanded its investments across the MEA region in recent years, establishing local data centers, advancing AI-powered government services, and supporting digital upskilling initiatives aimed at building resilient workforces.
In Egypt, the company remains a key partner in national efforts to modernize public services, digitize healthcare and education, and promote innovation in industries such as energy, agriculture, and finance. The country, Microsoft said, continues to be a strategic hub for regional operations.
Continuity in Egypt
While Arif transitions to her regional responsibilities, Microsoft confirmed it is in the final stages of selecting a new General Manager for Egypt. The company emphasized that it will maintain close collaboration with local stakeholders to sustain the momentum of its digital agenda.
A Broader Bet on Emerging Markets
Arif’s elevation comes amid growing global interest in the role of emerging markets in shaping the future of tech. As Microsoft expands its footprint in Africa and the Middle East, the company is positioning itself not only as a technology provider but as a long-term development partner.
With Arif at the helm of its Growth Markets division, Microsoft aims to drive sustainable innovation, expand digital access, and create economic opportunity at scale.
