Core42, a G42 company focused on sovereign cloud and AI infrastructure, has appointed Sherif Tawfik as its Chief Business Officer (CBO) as part of efforts to expand its global commercial operations.
In his new role, Tawfik will oversee the company’s global revenue functions, including sales, marketing, business development, partnerships, and managed and professional services. The company said he will also focus on expanding Core42’s international presence and accelerating adoption of its sovereign AI cloud platforms.
Tawfik brings nearly three decades of experience in the global technology sector, including more than 25 years at Microsoft, where he held senior leadership roles across the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. He has been involved in building technology partnerships and supporting cloud and AI adoption across emerging markets.
“Sherif brings deep commercial leadership and a strong track record building technology partnerships at global scale,” said Talal M. Al Kaissi, Chief Executive Officer (Interim), Core42. “Having played a pivotal role in shaping the G42–Microsoft partnership, he understands both the global technology landscape and the national infrastructure ambitions driving AI adoption today. As Core42 continues expanding internationally, Sherif will help scale our global commercial platform and deepen engagement with governments, enterprises, and partners deploying AI at production scale.”
Before this appointment, Tawfik served as Chief Partnership Officer for the G42 & Microsoft Global Alliance, where he worked on sovereign cloud deployments and AI-driven digital transformation initiatives.
Commenting on his appointment, Sherif Tawfik said, “Core42 is building the digital infrastructure backbone that will power the next generation of AI economies. I am excited to join at a moment when nations and enterprises are moving from ambition to large-scale AI deployment. My focus will be on expanding our global commercial reach and helping customers deploy AI and cloud infrastructure that is trusted, sovereign, and built for production.”
Tawfik is also the Co-Founder and CEO of Fusion Minds AI, an initiative focused on responsible AI adoption and the use of generative AI for sustainability challenges.
The company said the appointment reflects its plans to expand its global AI cloud footprint and support governments, enterprises and research institutions deploying AI infrastructure.



