RIB Software Appoints Chris Smith as Senior VP for MEA and APAC Regions
His appointment reflects RIB’s ongoing strategy to strengthen regional autonomy and deliver locally relevant innovation in key global growth markets.
RIB Software , a global leader in digital solutions for the construction and infrastructure sectors, has appointed Chris Smith as its new Senior Vice President for the Middle East, Africa (MEA) and Asia-Pacific (APAC) regions.
With over 30 years of international experience in SaaS and enterprise technology, Chris has led commercial and strategic growth in markets across Australia, New Zealand, North America, the UK, Europe and Asia Pacific. His appointment reflects RIB’s ongoing strategy to strengthen regional autonomy and deliver locally relevant innovation in key global growth markets.
Boasting an MBA and extensive experience in private equity-backed environments and M&A activity, Chris previously served as Chief Revenue Officer, Board Member and Shareholder at Medius. Here, he played a central role in the company’s international expansion over 12 years. Moreover, his earlier roles include senior leadership positions such as Global Sales Director in the defence and healthcare IT sectors, with a strong focus on business transformation, go-to-market strategy and cross-functional leadership.
“My appointment aligns with RIB’s vision to transform into a global powerhouse providing innovative software solutions in our markets,” says Chris. “Through this role, we will ensure cohesive, locally relevant products built around customer needs.”
– Chris Smith, Senior Vice President for Middle East, Africa (MEA) and Asia-Pacific (APAC), RIB Software
Chris’s immediate focus includes the regional deployment of RIB’s integrated technology suite, including Candy, CostX and BuildSmart, tailored to market conditions and infrastructure priorities. In Africa, where 58% of firms recently identified digital transformation as a top priority, he will focus on accelerating the adoption of RIB’s cloud-based, BIM-enabled, and cost-control tools.
“Clients in the region face unique challenges, from rising material costs and labour shortages to complex regulatory frameworks and fragmented markets. Our solutions must reflect these realities. We’re not bringing a one-size-fits-all model, but translating global capability into practical, local value.”
– Chris Smith, Senior Vice President for Middle East, Africa (MEA) and Asia-Pacific (APAC), RIB Software
The role also underscores RIB’s deepening investment in Southern Africa, a region facing mounting pressures from issues such as construction-related crime syndicates, rising costs and digital skill gaps. Chris will lead efforts to address these challenges through tailored partnerships, localised pricing models and dedicated training programmes.
Capacity building and workforce development will be another key pillar of his leadership. RIB is currently partnering with academic and vocational institutions to strengthen digital literacy across the construction ecosystem.
“We’re investing in more than just software. We’re investing in the future of construction, developing local talent, supporting sustainable growth, and helping our clients meet both operational and ESG demands through lean methodologies, carbon reporting and compliance.”
– Chris Smith, Senior Vice President for Middle East, Africa (MEA) and Asia-Pacific (APAC), RIB Software
