Juan Napoli

Juan Napoli is a strategic advisor, AI expert, and global connector with over 20 years of experience in emerging technologies, offering management, and education strategy. As an Advisor at the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), he provides expert consultation on initiatives requiring international alignment, ensuring Saudi Arabia’s AI and data strategies are at the forefront of global best practices. In his role, Juan actively engages with top AI startups worldwide, partners with leading global powerhouses in Data and AI, and establishes key collaborations with governments and academic institutions dedicated to advancing AI adoption on a global scale including MIT, Harvard, Columbia, Stanford. He also plays a pivotal role in curating SDAIA-hosted events, securing the participation of world-class experts, high-profile speakers, and senior government officials, ensuring these gatherings drive real-world impact and strategic outcomes. Prior to SDAIA, Juan spent 19 years at IBM, where he led transformative global initiatives in digital learning, AI workforce development, and credentialing. As Program Director for IBM’s Digital Credentials Program, he managed a global task force overseeing HR credentialing, business partner incentives, client enablement, and external education platforms. He lead the curriculum development of global university programs in partnership with over 900 universities around the globe. He also led the Africa Skills Initiative under John E. Kelly III (the "father" of IBM Watson) and worked at the Thomas J. Watson Research Center in New York, collaborating with IBM Fellows, top scientists, and Ivy League universities (including Harvard and Columbia) to develop groundbreaking education and research programs. With deep expertise in AI governance, global strategy, and talent development, Juan is committed to bridging the gap between AI innovation and its practical application, driving initiatives that empower governments, industries, and individuals in the AI-driven future.