Justin Spelhaug
President, Microsoft Elevate, Microsoft
Justin leads Microsoft Elevate, a global effort focused on widening the circle of opportunity by strengthening the education, workforce, and social impact systems that help people thrive in the AI economy. His team brings together Microsoft’s capabilities in technology, training, and policy advising to support the organizations that shape opportunity every day—schools preparing the next generation, nonprofits delivering essential services, and workforce programs expanding economic mobility. Justin has spent 28 years at Microsoft in leadership roles spanning strategy, operations, engineering, commercial sales, and social impact. Most recently, he served as Corporate Vice President for Strategy & Operations for Small, Medium Enterprises & Channel (SME&C), helping customers and partners accelerate growth through AI-driven transformation. Prior to that, he led Tech for Social Impact within Microsoft Philanthropies, overseeing global industry strategy, engineering, and sales for the nonprofit sector. He also spent more than seven years in the Asia Pacific region as Chief Marketing & Operations Officer, leading revenue, market share, and go-to-market execution across developed and emerging markets. Earlier in his career, he helped launch Microsoft’s Unlimited Potential initiative, focused on expanding affordable technology access for lower-income communities. Justin began his career in the United States Marine Corps. He also serves on the board of Generation Unlimited (UNICEF).
