Microsoft
Ed Sleiman is a distinguished cybersecurity executive, technology strategist, and internationally recognized speaker with more than 40 years of experience in information technology and over 16 years in senior cybersecurity leadership roles. He currently serves as Chief Security Advisor at Microsoft, where he provides strategic guidance to cybersecurity leaders, executive teams, and boards of directors across the Middle East on cyber resilience, risk management, digital trust, and secure digital transformation.
Prior to joining Microsoft, Ed served as Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), where he led cybersecurity strategy and governance for one of the region’s most advanced research and innovation ecosystems. Throughout his career, he has been a strong advocate for cybersecurity awareness, talent development, diversity, and inclusion, helping organizations build resilient security cultures capable of addressing evolving digital threats.
Ed is widely recognized for his pioneering work on “The Human Firewall,” an initiative focused on empowering individuals to become the first line of defense against cyberattacks through awareness, education, and behavioral resilience. His thought leadership has earned him five prestigious CISO Awards and established him as one of the leading voices in cybersecurity across the region.
As a member of the Advisory Board of the AI in Washington Conference 2026, Ed brings invaluable expertise at the intersection of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, governance, and digital transformation. His insights help shape discussions on how emerging technologies can be adopted responsibly while protecting organizations, governments, and societies from increasingly sophisticated cyber risks.
“Cybersecurity is no longer simply a technical challenge—it is a leadership challenge, a governance challenge, and increasingly an AI challenge. Ed Sleiman has dedicated his career to helping organizations build trust, resilience, and security in a rapidly changing world. His experience and vision will make a significant contribution to the AI in Washington Conference as we explore the future of artificial intelligence and digital society.”
— Dr. Hikmat Beaini, President, AI in Washington Conference 2026