Google Cloud Appoints New Leaders in Thailand and Indonesia to Drive AI Growth

The leadership changes come as more organizations in the region move beyond testing AI and begin looking for practical ways to use the technology to improve business performance and achieve measurable results.

In his new role, Thipsena will lead Google Cloud’s business strategy in Thailand, including sales, customer relationships, partner collaborations, and overall business operations.

Before joining Google Cloud, Saruj Thipsena worked at STelligence as Executive Director and Chief Technology Officer. He led projects that helped organizations use AI and data analytics to solve business challenges, including AI initiatives for Thailand’s TH2OECD National Project

Earlier in his career, Thipsena held senior leadership roles at Microsoft Thailand, including Deputy Managing Director of the Cloud Solution Unit and Chief Information Security Officer. In these positions, he helped businesses adopt cloud technologies, strengthen cybersecurity, and explore generative AI solutions.

In Indonesia, Google Cloud has appointed Karim Siregar as Country Director. He will oversee local operations and business strategy while helping startups and large enterprises accelerate their AI transformation efforts.

Most recently, Siregar served as Chief Information Officer at PT BFI Finance Indonesia. He was also the founding President Director of PT Bank Jago and CEO of Dkatalis Digital Labs, where he helped build one of Indonesia’s early digital banking ecosystems.

Over a career spanning more than 30 years, Siregar has held leadership positions at Bank BTPN, Bank Danamon, and Bank Mega. His experience includes financial inclusion, banking infrastructure, digital transformation, and enterprise modernization.

Mark Micallef said both markets represent significant opportunities for Google Cloud’s regional ambitions.

“Thailand is a critical growth engine for Southeast Asia’s digital economy, and our US$1 billion investment in Thailand and new cloud region in Bangkok reflects our absolute commitment to serving the country and our customers here,” he said.

The appointments highlight Google Cloud’s increasing focus on Southeast Asia, where more businesses are adopting AI-powered technologies. Demand for these solutions is growing rapidly across industries such as banking, retail, telecommunications, and startups.