Dr. Ra’ed M. BenShams is one of the Gulf region’s most respected leadership, governance, and public-sector transformation experts, with a distinguished career spanning more than four decades. Throughout his professional journey, he has dedicated his work to strengthening public institutions, advancing national development, and promoting principled leadership, innovation, and capacity building across Bahrain and the broader region. He currently serves as Advisor to the Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Public Service Development in the Kingdom of Bahrain and previously served as President of the International Institute of Administrative Sciences (IIAS), where he successfully guided the organization through significant governance and institutional reforms. Dr. BenShams is also a board member of the Afro-Asian Council for AI and Cybersecurity and holds several distinguished fellowships with international institutions. Among his most notable achievements was founding and leading the Bahrain Institute of Public Administration (BIPA) for sixteen years, transforming it into one of the region’s leading centers for leadership development, public-sector training, research, coaching, and consultancy. He also founded the Middle East and North Africa Public Administration Research (MENAPAR) Network, helping bridge regional expertise with global knowledge and best practices. A recognized author, speaker, and thought leader, Dr. BenShams is widely known for his work in systems thinking, ethical leadership, governance, institutional resilience, and organizational transformation. His contributions have been recognized through numerous honors, including the Medal of Achievement (First Level) awarded by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the GCC Youth Medal, and the IASIA/IIAS OP Dwivedi Global Award for contributions to public administration practice and science. As a member of the Advisory Board of the AI in Washington Conference 2026, Dr. BenShams brings invaluable expertise in governance, leadership, institutional transformation, and public-sector innovation, helping shape discussions on the future role of artificial intelligence in government and society. “Dr. Ra’ed BenShams has spent a lifetime building institutions, developing leaders, and advancing the principles of ethical governance. His deep understanding of leadership, systems thinking, and public-sector transformation will provide an essential perspective as we explore how artificial intelligence can strengthen institutions, empower citizens, and create more resilient societies.” — Dr. Hikmat Beaini, President, AI in Washington Conference 2026