Douglas S. Smith III is a seasoned executive with over 30 years of experience in strategic partnerships, corporate development, finance, and business transformation. Recognized as one of Channel Futures’ Top 20 Cloud Channel Leaders, Doug has made significant contributions to shaping the technology landscape, overseeing high-impact partnerships, and spearheading transformative initiatives at global technology giants, including Oracle and Microsoft. His leadership is underscored by a unique combination of financial acumen, strategic insight, and a commitment to building collaborative ecosystems that fuel innovation and growth.
As Senior Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Global Partner Ecosystem at Oracle, Doug was responsible for transforming, growing, and strengthening relationships with Oracle’s strategic and channel partners across all products, services, and regions. In this role, he led a team to design, negotiate, and execute custom deals and partner programs that accelerated Oracle’s expansion into competitive and collaborative markets. His achievements include forging alliances with top technology firms like Microsoft, Google, and AWS, fostering joint initiatives in multi-cloud and generative AI, deep partnerships with all of the major software integration consulting firms, and expanding Oracle’s partner ecosystem with key ISV players and consulting services companies.
Doug’s prior experience at Microsoft as General Manager and Partner for Cloud and AI Business Development further solidifies his expertise in building impactful partnerships. Leading Microsoft’s strategic alliances for Azure Cloud, AI/ML, and data platforms, he crafted deals with industry leaders such as SAP, Salesforce, Adobe, and Red Hat. These partnerships helped transform Azure into an open cloud platform, significantly driving customer adoption and establishing Microsoft’s competitive edge in the cloud space.
In addition to his role in partnerships, Doug has an impressive background in corporate finance and business leadership. As CFO for Microsoft’s Health Solutions Group, he provided financial oversight for a high-growth startup that grew from $7M to nearly $100M in revenues. Doug played a crucial role in negotiating and executing the Microsoft-GE joint venture Caradigm, which delivered innovative business intelligence applications to healthcare enterprises. His deep understanding of financial strategy and his ability to identify market opportunities have been instrumental in scaling emerging businesses.
Doug’s career includes valuable international experience, having worked in Korea, Indonesia, China, and Singapore, which has equipped him with a global perspective and a nuanced understanding of diverse markets. His leadership journey began at PwC, where he spent seven years in audit and business advisory, specializing in due diligence for public companies. This early exposure to corporate governance and risk management laid a strong foundation for his subsequent roles in strategic planning and executive leadership.
A thought leader in digital transformation, Doug is also a dedicated educator and mentor. As a guest lecturer at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business, he shares insights on digital transformation, strategic data use, and reinvention, drawing on his own experiences in high-stakes corporate environments. Doug is committed to fostering the next generation of business leaders, a passion reflected in his roles as a board member and volunteer instructor for the Cambodia University Scholarship Project and on the Neeley School of Business Board of Advisors at Texas Christian University.
Doug’s dedication to education and social impact extends beyond his professional life. His volunteer work with the Cambodia University Scholarship Project reflects his commitment to addressing educational disparities in underserved communities, where he has been actively involved since 2016. This passion aligns with his values of integrity, collaboration, and empowering others.
With an MBA in Corporate Strategy and Finance from the University of Michigan (with Highest Distinction) and a BBA in Accounting and Finance from Texas Christian University (Summa Cum Laude), Doug’s academic foundation is matched by his practical experience and proven leadership skills. As a licensed CPA, he combines technical expertise with strategic vision, consistently driving value in his roles.
Doug is currently focused on board service opportunities, where he can leverage his unique skills in technology, financial governance, and corporate growth to help organizations navigate an evolving business landscape. His interests in anti-human trafficking, education, and business development align with his professional expertise, positioning him as an ideal board candidate for companies committed to growth and social impact.
Character:
Doug exemplifies integrity and dedication, consistently aligning his professional success with a commitment to service, as seen in both his career and volunteer work. His character is reflected in his efforts to support educational initiatives and his role in fostering ethical, collaborative relationships in business.
Knowledge:
With extensive expertise in strategic partnerships, financial governance, and digital transformation, Doug brings a rich understanding of complex global markets and technology ecosystems. His background spans top-tier companies and influential roles that position him as a trusted thought leader in the tech and finance sectors.
Strategic:
Doug has a proven track record of driving impactful partnerships and innovative solutions that advance business goals, evident in his work with Oracle and Microsoft. His strategic approach enables organizations to harness growth opportunities, adapt to evolving markets, and remain competitive.
Communication:
Known for his collaborative and effective communication, Doug successfully navigates corporate environments, aligning diverse stakeholders toward common objectives. His clear, insightful leadership style fosters productive relationships and drives cohesive decision-making at all levels.
