Microsoft names former AWS and IBM Indonesia chief as country GM

Microsoft has appointed Gunawan Susanto (pictured) as country general manager for Indonesia, tasking the former Amazon Web Services (AWS) and IBM Indonesia chief with leading the company's next phase of growth as the country accelerates its ambitions in artificial intelligence and digital transformation.

The appointment comes as Microsoft deepens its investment in Indonesia, one of Asia's fastest-growing digital economies. The technology giant has committed US$1.7 billion over four years to expand local cloud and AI infrastructure, while continuing efforts to develop digital and AI talent across the country. 

In his new role, Susanto will oversee Microsoft's operations and partnerships across Indonesia, covering government agencies, large enterprises, startups, digital-native businesses, and the country's vast small and medium-sized enterprise sector. His remit will focus on driving responsible AI adoption, developing local talent, and supporting inclusive economic growth.

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Susanto succeeds Dharma Simorangkir, who led Microsoft Indonesia through a period of growth.

"Indonesia is one of Asia's most consequential digital economies, with the scale, talent, and ambition to lead in the AI era. With Gunawan's experience and local insight, we will help Indonesian organisations turn that ambition into real impact and advance our commitment to empower every person and organisation in the country. I'm delighted to welcome Gunawan to lead this next chapter for Microsoft Indonesia," said Mayank Wadhwa, president, Microsoft ASEAN.

The leadership change follows Microsoft's ongoing efforts to expand AI accessibility in Indonesia. The company said that since the introduction of its Microsoft Elevate initiative in the country, more than two million people have participated in the programme, with over 1.2 million earning Microsoft-recognised credentials.

Susanto joins Microsoft with more than 20 years of experience in the technology industry. He previously served as country manager of AWS Indonesia and president director of IBM Indonesia, where he worked with organisations across industries on technology adoption and digital transformation initiatives.

Most recently, he has been involved in Indonesia's healthcare sector through a private equity fund and currently serves as an independent commissioner at Dayamitra Telekomunikasi (Mitratel).

Commenting on his appointment, Susanto said: "I am excited to join Microsoft Indonesia as my opportunity to learn and contribute at the forefront of the AI era. Microsoft's commitment to innovation and empowerment aligns strongly with my belief that technology can be a powerful force for positive change. I am particularly inspired by the potential to leverage Microsoft's capabilities to support Indonesia’s digital transformation and advance my personal mission of improving healthcare access for every Indonesian."

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