The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is one of the world’s most dynamic hubs for artificial intelligence blending deep talent, rapid adoption, and bold innovation. From enterprise transformation and cloud computing to autonomous systems and advanced analytics, AI leaders in APAC are shaping how organizations use intelligent technologies at scale.

Here’s a look at the Top 10 AI Leaders in APAC whose expertise, vision, and leadership are defining the future of AI across the region in 2026.

1. Mei May Soo - Chief of AI Global Solution Specialist, Dell Technologies (Singapore)

Mei May Soo tops the list for her strategic leadership in AI and machine learning at Dell Technologies. She spearheads global AI/ML initiatives that help enterprises solve complex problems using scientific and data-driven approaches, spanning applications from industrial AI to conservation projects.

2. Purshottam Purswani - CTO APAC, Atos (Australia)

As Chief Technology Officer for the APAC region at Atos, Purshottam Purswani guides the company’s technology strategy around machine learning, IoT, cloud, and AI. His role focuses on helping organizations adopt emerging digital technologies and drive innovation through scalable solutions tailored to the region’s diverse business landscape.

3. Mohit Kapoor - Group CTO, Mahindra Group (India)

With decades of experience in technology and digital transformation, Mohit Kapoor leads Mahindra Group’s efforts to harness AI for business innovation. He ensures that AI and emerging technologies are woven into products, services, and customer experiences across multiple industries.

4. Janice Carey - Head of Advanced Analytics & AI, Coles Group (Australia)

Janice Carey is a seasoned leader in analytics and AI. At Coles Group, she drives AI adoption in advanced analytics and strategic initiatives that optimize operations, improve business outcomes, and build data-driven capabilities across the organization.

5. Jingren Zhou - CTO, Alibaba Cloud (China)

Jingren Zhou leads technical strategy at Alibaba Cloud, focusing on big data, machine learning, and scalable cloud AI infrastructure. His work supports intelligent applications in e-commerce, logistics, and digital services, making AI accessible to businesses across Asia.

6. Ugur Ersoy - Head of AI, NIO (China)

Ugur Ersoy oversees AI strategy at NIO, a leading electric vehicle manufacturer. He drives the development of machine vision and industrial IoT capabilities that power advanced vehicle autonomy, manufacturing optimization, and data-driven vehicle performance enhancements.

7. Craig Price - Head of Data Science & AI CoE, Suncorp Group (Australia)

Craig Price brings deep expertise in data science and AI to the financial services sector. At Suncorp Group, he leads the Centre of Excellence for AI mentoring teams that build advanced analytics solutions used across insurance, risk modeling, and customer experience functions.

8. Hyunsoo Kim - CEO, Superb AI (South Korea)

Hyunsoo Kim exemplifies APAC’s entrepreneurial energy. His leadership in AI data platforms and training systems helps organizations scale machine learning with quality data workflows and tools optimized for demanding enterprise usage.

9. Bae Kyung‑hoon - AI Strategist & Policy Influencer (South Korea)

Bae Kyung‑hoon highlights the intersection between government leadership and AI research priorities in APAC. His role in national AI research councils demonstrates how public-sector leaders are shaping AI ecosystems across the region.

10. Mitesh Khapra - Professor & AI Researcher (India)

Mitesh Khapra is an influential academic driving AI accessibility across diverse languages and populations. His work focuses on inclusive AI research that addresses linguistic and cultural barriers, ensuring AI benefits reach all communities.

Why These Leaders Matter

These AI leaders matter because they:

• Drive strategic AI adoption: Embedding intelligence into business models and operations
• Advance research and innovation: Connecting academic insight with real-world impact
• Shape AI ecosystems: Through mentorship, standards, and governance initiatives
• Bridge sectors: From automotive and cloud computing to financial services and retail

As APAC continues to adopt AI rapidly, leadership and governance become as important as technical breakthroughs. The APAC region is emerging as a powerhouse for AI innovation, supported by visionary leaders who combine technical expertise, strategic foresight, and commitment to societal progress. From enterprise transformation to foundational research and public policy, these leaders exemplify how AI can be used responsibly and effectively to shape economic growth and social impact. Watching these leaders and their evolving contributions offers valuable insight into the future direction of AI across one of the world’s most dynamic regions.