Brad Smith

Brad Smith is an American corporate executive, attorney, and author who serves as Vice Chair and President of Microsoft. He is widely recognized as a leading figure in the technology industry's engagement with public policy, cybersecurity, human rights, and digital diplomacy. Smith joined Microsoft in 1993 and has held several senior roles, including General Counsel, before assuming his current position where he oversees the company's broad legal, corporate, and governmental affairs.

Early life and education

Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Smith demonstrated an early interest in law and policy. He pursued his undergraduate studies at Princeton University, graduating with a degree from the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs. He then earned a Juris Doctor degree from Columbia Law School, where he was a member of the Columbia Law Review. To further his business acumen, Smith later obtained a Master of Business Administration from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

Career at Microsoft

Smith joined Microsoft in 1993 as a senior attorney in the European legal and corporate affairs team. He rose through the ranks, becoming Deputy General Counsel in 1998 and Senior Vice President, General Counsel, and Corporate Secretary in 2002. In this role, he led the company's legal team through major antitrust cases, including those with the United States Department of Justice and the European Commission. He was instrumental in negotiating settlements and shaping Microsoft's compliance strategies. In 2015, he was promoted to President, overseeing legal, governmental affairs, and corporate philanthropy. His tenure has focused on navigating complex regulatory landscapes, promoting artificial intelligence ethics, and advancing initiatives like the AI for Good program. In 2021, he was named Vice Chair, a role in which he works closely with Satya Nadella on long-term strategy.

Public policy and advocacy

Smith is a prominent advocate for technology regulation and international cooperation. He has testified before the United States Congress on issues ranging from data privacy to immigration reform. He played a key role in Microsoft's opposition to the USA PATRIOT Act secrecy orders and its lawsuit against the United States Department of Justice over data disclosure. He has been a vocal proponent of a Digital Geneva Convention to protect civilians from state-sponsored cyberattacks. Smith has also led Microsoft's advocacy for stronger climate change policies, including the company's commitment to become carbon negative by 2030. He co-authored the book *Tools and Weapons: The Promise and the Peril of the Digital Age* with Carol Ann Browne, discussing the societal impact of technology.

Other activities and recognition

Beyond his work at Microsoft, Smith serves on the board of directors for Netflix and the advisory board for the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs. He is a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and the Council on Foreign Relations. His contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including being named one of the "Most Influential People in Business Ethics" by Ethisphere and receiving the Champion of Freedom award from the Media Institute. He frequently speaks at global forums such as the World Economic Forum in Davos and the Munich Security Conference.

Personal life

Smith is married to Kathy Surace-Smith, and they have two children. The family resides in the Seattle area. An avid supporter of the arts and education, Smith and his wife have contributed to various cultural and academic institutions in the Pacific Northwest. He is known for his interest in history and is a dedicated piano player.

Category:American businesspeople Category:Microsoft executives Category:1959 births Category:Living people