Asia-Pacific Power List 2024: Simon Kahn, Google

Simon Kahn 

Vice President, marketing for Asia Pacific
Google
Singapore
Member since 2023

Simon Kahn’s leadership at Google APAC has helped transform the Asia Pacific region into a growth engine for the tech giant through his inclusive and purpose-driven marketing. After over a decade as vice president of marketing for Asia Pacific, he is now on a mission to demystify AI technology for marketers, while championing its responsible development and usage.

Under Kahn's leadership, Google APAC has consistently achieved brand growth year-over-year by aligning strategic initiatives with his passion for driving positive change. He spearheads campaigns that allow authenticity and local voices to shine, resonating with communities in a deeper, more meaningful way.

Recognising the growing influence of social media in the region, he fosters collaborations with local creators with the belief that influencer marketing must be built on trust, through authentic connections at the heart of successful campaigns. A case in point is Google Play's Diamond Valley loyalty campaign in Korea and Japan, which saw local creators who understood their audiences generating real buzz among hardcore gaming fans, resulting in high-quality engagement and a sense of community.

"Results come from real connections" is the philosophy that echoes in his purpose-driven marketing, which leverages inclusivity as the key to long-term brand building. Kahn has launched campaigns across the APAC region that empower diverse communities through storytelling, from Google x Baker Boy in Australia to Project Guideline in Japan, along with the brand's recent International Women's Day celebrations, which highlighted real people whose lives have been transformed by technology.

Next on his trajectory is the adoption of AI technology and building a culture of innovation and experimentation within Google's marketing teams through events and knowledge-sharing that connects Google with partners and unlocks growth opportunities.

Kahn is also a vocal advocate of diversity, equity and inclusion. Under his stewardship, Google APAC launched initiatives like mandatory inclusion training and diversity targets in events that set an example and paved the way for sustainable progress. His mentorship of women leaders externally further amplifies his commitment to shaping an inclusive future. Kahn has also led initiatives like the APAC 'Year in Search' report which provides valuable consumer insights. Most recently, he launched the 'Power the Confidence Shift' research from Google Marketing Live APAC to explore how brands can build consumer trust and equip marketers with perspectives that can help navigate uncertainty in the rapidly evolving marketing world.