Akram Awad

Akram Awad is a core member of BCG's Public Sector and Technology Advantage practices with over ten years of experience in consulting, telecommunications, and technology. He is an expert on artificial intelligence, big data and analytics, digital transformation, and innovation management; and has worked with clients from around the world, primarily in the public sector and technology, media, and telecommunications industries.

Akram has advised public sector leaders in the Middle East on unlocking the value of national data through AI to advance economies and societies. He has led the development and activation of national data and AI agendas and tech-focused innovation strategies, and championed a number of global initiatives focusing on human-centric AI.

Akram is also a visiting professor of technology and innovation management at IE Business School, teaching future entrepreneurs about the role of technology and innovation in shaping future society. He is also an inventor with several registered patents in smart networks and mobile technologies.

Areas Of Expertise

• Public Sector
• Digital, Technology, and Data
• Technology Industry
• Technology, Media, and Telecommunications
• Artificial Intelligence
• Data and Analytics
• Innovation Strategy and Delivery
• Corporate Finance and Strategy
• Digital Transformation

Selected experiences:

• Led the development of a national data and AI governance strategy of a ME country.
• Led Agile development and implementation of the big data analytics program for a strategic ME public entity
• Led the development and implementation of the big data analytics program for a strategic ME public entity
• Enabled the Agile transformation of a ME public-sector national IT platform
• Developed the marketing and launch strategy of a national e-services portal for a strategic ME ministry
• Led the strategy and delivery plan development of the biggest national transformation program of a ME country
• Advised a leading ME telco group CEO on executing a mega growth and digital portfolio strategy to transform to a global champion and lead the country’s digital transformation
• Led the development of digital transformation initiatives for a major Eastern European telco, inc. big data, IoT, smart and smart logistics
• Led several Agile software and hardware product development projects in European technology companies

Academic Experience

• Visiting Professor of Technology and Innovation, IE Business School, Spain, 2016-Present
• Researcher, University of Leeds, UK, 2003-2008

Education

• MBA in Global Management, IE Business School, Spain, 2015
• Ph.D. in Integrated Information Systems and Communications, University of Leeds, UK, 2008
• Bachelor in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, University of Jordan, Jordan, 2003