Karim Michel Sabbagh led global technology-centric businesses as CEO, investor and advisor covering space-based multi-orbit communication networks, terrestrial communication networks, ultra-secure communications, cyber security, digital transformation, AI and applied analytics. He is presently the Managing Director of E-Space & Lead for Europe and the Middle East.
Prior, he was the CEO of the DarkMatter Group where he led the restructuring of the company and oversaw its holistic transformation from a fluid start-up to a leading and highly influential firm with a focus on digital transformation and applied analytics, cyber security and ultra-secure communications. This successful trajectory lead to multiple private equity buyouts in 2019.
Karim was also the President and CEO of SES (Société Européenne des Satellites), the world-leading satellite operator. He led the strategy-based transformation of SES, overseeing the evolution of the company’s strategy and execution and its elevation to become the leading provider of satellite-enabled communications solutions in the video, fixed data, mobility, and government markets. Over the course of the transformation, SES rose to the no.1 position globally.
He also served as a Senior Partner and global practice leader for communications, media & technology at Booz&Co (previously Booz Allen Hamilton). At Board and CEO levels, he has shaped and served the strategic agenda of global players in the communications, media and satellite sectors. He led end-to-end multinational teams in long-term, large-scale privatizations, international expansion, mergers and acquisitions, growth acceleration and strategy-based transformation programs.
Karim authored and co-authored numerous white papers and op-eds on strategy, technology, and socio-economic development. He co-authored The Third Billion viewpoint which led to the creation of the global index that measured the positive impact of engaging the one billion women who are precluded at present from fully participating in the advancement of their societies and economies. He also contributed to the Global Information Technology Report and the Global Innovation Index Additionally, Karim founded and served as chairman of the Booz&Co Ideation Center.
He is a visiting professor in Technology and Innovation Management and member of the Academic Council for Écoles des Ponts Business School in France. He holds an MS in Technology Management from Columbia University (New York), a DBA in International Business Management from the International School of Management (Paris), and an MBA and BBA from the American University of Beirut.
