Nick Otto

Nick Otto is a General Manager at IBM with more than 20 years of cross industry experience helping clients on their transformation journeys. With an extensive career in building partnerships with customers, he understands and aligns corporate strategy imperatives to technology transformations.

More specifically, Nick is the Head of Global Strategic Partnerships for IBM. In this role, he is responsible for leading the largest and most strategic relationships in the IBM Ecosystem. 

His experience with IBM Consulting as well as internal IBM Corporate Strategy spans multiple functional areas including product, ecosystem, finance, sales, talent, and operations.

Previously, he was a Partner in IBM Consulting focused on Data & AI and prior to that a leader in IBM’s Corporate Strategy and Chief Analytics Office driving IBM’s internal transformation with a priority focus on IBM sales execution.

Nick is a graduate of Georgia Tech (Electrical Engineering) and holds a Masters in Business Administration from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

Nick got his Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology, and an MBA in General Management from Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management.

Nick's professional journey began as an Electrical Engineer at Polytron, where he honed his skills in designing distribution, manufacturing, and process systems for major electronics, aerospace, and consumer goods companies. Over three years, he demonstrated expertise in optimising manufacturing systems, managing projects, developing PLC and HMI applications, and overseeing budgets.

With a transition to IBM in 2006, Nick's career trajectory soared. He spent more than 20 years at IBM, holding various key positions, including Executive Program Manager in the Corporate Strategy - Chief Analytics Office. During his tenure, he emerged as a global leader in AI and the Advanced Analytics Center of Competency.

Nick showcased his strategic prowess as Head of Strategic Partnerships, General Manager, and Director of IBM Partnerships & Alliances, contributing significantly to IBM's growth.

Nick Otto envisions a future where the seamless integration of cutting-edge technology and strategic partnerships transforms the global business landscape. With a passion for driving innovation, Nick's vision centers on fostering collaboration between traditional institutions and emerging fintech players, ensuring financial inclusion and unlocking new possibilities for individuals and businesses alike. He aims to leverage his extensive experience to lead initiatives that propel the financial services sector into a new era of digitisation, where technology becomes an enabler for economic growth and accessibility.

At the core of Nick's vision is the belief in the power of strategic alliances to overcome industry challenges. He sees a landscape where traditional banks and fintech innovators join forces to create cohesive ecosystems, breaking down barriers and facilitating omnichannel transactions. Nick Otto's vision extends beyond technology for its own sake; it encompasses a holistic approach that addresses societal needs, promotes financial inclusion, and fosters economic growth through the symbiotic relationship between technology and strategic partnerships.