Leadership Roundup: Channel Shifts and Additions in August

As summer turns to fall and schools go back in session, the channel has remained active in the leadership space, with organizations making changes to their executive teams to ensure growth and success in the latter part of the year.

Some organizations have parted ways with veterans, while others have brought in new veterans to take the wheel and steer channel programs toward success. Catch up on all the latest moves here and stay tuned each month as Channel Insider brings the most up-to-date news around the channel ecosystem.

Clark leaves Cisco as others welcome familiar faces in new roles

Cisco parts with Rodney Clark

Cisco recently announced that the organization is parting ways with Rodney Clark, who served as the company’s senior vice president of global partner sales.

Tim Coogan will step in to replace Clark.

“We want to thank Rodney for his dedication to our partners, leadership, and contributions to Cisco,” said a Cisco spokesperson. “Tim Coogan will step into the role of SVP, Global Partner Sales, effective immediately. With over 25 years of technology sales experience, a proven track record of driving partner success and trust at Cisco, and a deep understanding of how to scale business together, Tim is the ideal leader to guide our partners forward in this next phase of growth and collaboration.”

Cisco was responsible for enabling Cisco’s global ecosystem or partners and scaling and strengthening go-to-market strategies that helped drive growth for the company.

“Rodney and Tim are committed to ensuring a smooth transition and remain confident in our partner strategy. We wish Rodney continued success in his future endeavors,” the spokesperson said.

Apptega adds Bob Layton as CRO

Security compliance platform vendor Apptega recently announced that Bob Layton will be the organization’s new chief revenue officer (CRO).

“I’ve always had my finger on the pulse of what’s primed for disruption in the market,” Layton told Channel Insider. “I had four offers to pick from, and ultimately I joined Apptega because I think the company’s going to be a real disruptor, and GRC needs disruption right now.”

Layton brings with him dynamic leadership experience, having held senior roles at eSentire, Arithos, Digital Defense, Alert Logic, and Pluribus Networks.

“By coupling Apptega’s strategic vision and partner-optimized platform with Bob’s unparalleled understanding of security service provider needs, Apptega is accelerating managed risk and compliance as a channel-leading growth engine at scale,” said Dave Colesante, CEO at Apptega. “This alignment will fuel growth and differentiation with security providers to tackle immense demand for next-level GRC and managed compliance solutions head first.”

Kendra Krause appointed GM of ThreatDown Business Unit

The corporate business unit of Malwarebytes, ThreatDown, has named Kendra Krause as General Manager, leading the evolution of the channel and go-to-market programs for resellers, MSPs, and distribution partners.

“This is a really exciting opportunity as the company is going through its separation from Malwarebytes to really establish itself as a B2B security player,” Krause told Channel Insider. “It’s also already a channel-first company, and I felt that with my experience in the channel, this was a perfect fit for me to join and really scale that motion.”

Krause previously served as SVP of global channels at Sophos, as well as holding leadership roles at Fortinet, SonicWall, and WatchGuard.

“Kendra brings deep cybersecurity and channel expertise, along with a proven track record,” said Marcin Kleczynski, founder and CEO of Malwarebytes. “She will play a pivotal role in shaping ThreatDown’s future.”

NinjaOne appoints Paul Redding as Head of MSP partnerships

NinjaOne, an automated endpoint management platform, recently announced the appointment of Paul Redding as Head of MSP Partnerships.

In his new role, Redding will enable MSPs to scale their revenue, improve operational efficiency, and deliver increased value to clients with automated endpoint management security.

“I’ve admired NinjaOne’s relentless focus on innovation and partner success for a long time,” said Redding. “The MSP market is at an inflection point, with a growing need for efficiency and automation at scale. I’m excited to join the NinjaOne team to help our partners seize this opportunity and achieve new levels of growth and success.”

Redding has deep channel roots, starting as the CEO of an MSP that specialized in highly regulated industries and held numerous senior channel and community leadership roles at cybersecurity companies. He most recently served as SVP of Channel Marketing and Community at CyberQP.

Security providers add leadership across functions, including marketing, revenue, and more

QuSecure names Jennifer Leggio as SVP of marketing and revenue operations

QuSecure, a leader in post-quantum cryptography (PQC) and cryptographic agility, welcomed Jennifer Leggio as SVP of marketing and revenue operations.

In her new role, Leggio will oversee global marketing strategy, communications, demand generation, and revenue operations.

“I’ve spent over two decades in cybersecurity supporting wildly innovative companies yet all of them were chasing the adversaries after threats had run rampant,” Leggio said. “I joined QuSecure because it is the clear leader in this space and this is a once in a career opportunity to help organizations solve an issue before it becomes crippling; to help them understand that they need immediate detection of policy violations such as expired certificates, unauthorized certificate authorities, weak encryption protocols, or non-compliant cryptographic implementations across enterprise environments now– while bad actors are preparing with ‘harvest now, decrypt later’ motions. It is my mission to educate as many people as possible about this need and grow QuSecure along with it.”

Leggio’s cybersecurity career spans several years, with leadership positions held at Flashpoint, Claroty, Fortinet, and Sourcefire (now part of Cisco). 

SonicWall appoints Michael Crean

Recently, cybersecurity company SonicWall appointed channel and industry veteran Michael Crean as general manager of managed security services.

SonicWall is transitioning into a full-service cybersecurity partner, delivering advanced technology and co-managed services designed to support partners on their security services journey, and this move is a key part of that strategy.

“If you think you know SonicWall, you might want to look again,” said Crean. “This is the new SonicWall: responsive, partner-led, and ready to deliver what MSPs need to succeed. Managed security services aren’t just part of our future– they’re a core layer of every security solution we sell.”

Noma Security appoints Rich Pisani

Noma Security, an AI security platform, has announced that Ralph Pisani will be taking over as their new Chief Revenue Officer, expanding its team to secure agentic AI.

In his new role, Pisani will lead Noma’s sales strategy and revenue growth, bringing decades of cybersecurity experience to Noma Security – most recently with ProtectAI.

“Joining Noma Security at this pivotal moment feels like the perfect alignment of mission and opportunity,” said Pisani. “We’re facing the most complex cybersecurity challenge of our generation; securing agentic AI systems. Noma Security built the most-comprehensive AI security platform in the industry and it has already been adopted by Fortune 500 organizations who are confidently adopting agentic AI. Noma Security customers are more-rapidly leaning into AI adoption and innovation, and I’m excited to help CISOs and their teams responsibly enable agentic AI and help their customers realize the benefits.”

Outpost24 appoints new Chief Corporate Development Officer and CISO

Cyber risk management and threat intelligence solutions provider Outpost24 made a pair of leadership changes, appointing a new chief corporate development officer and a new CISO.

Olivia Brännlund is stepping into the CISO role after previously serving as Deputy CISO.

“I’m honored to step into the role of CISO at Outpost24, especially having grown with this remarkable team,” said Brännlund. “My priority is ensuring we remain ahead by empowering our team, innovating our approach to security, and reinforcing trust with our customers and partners.”

Brännlund initially joined Outpost24 in 2022 as a technical coordinator and was later promoted to technical architect. Before joining Outpost24, she worked as a security architect at Ericsson, working within the 5G field.

Ariel Katz, meanwhile, will take over as Outpost24’s new Chief Corporate Development Officer, driving strategic growth and identifying and executing inorganic opportunities to boost the company’s cybersecurity prowess.

“I’m excited to join the Outpost24 team at such a pivotal time for cybersecurity innovation,” said Katz. “By accelerating our corporate development initiatives, expanding industry alliances, and identifying key opportunities, I intend to enhance Outpost24 as a leader in the market and deliver value to our customers.”

Katz brings over 20 years of experience in finance and technology, transitioning into the technology sector after starting his career in financial audit at PwC, and investment and M&A transactions at Deloitte and KPMG.

New partner-focused roles across the channel

Justin Crotty joins Exclusive Networks

Justin Crotty was recently named vice president of services for Exclusive Networks North America and general manager of Cloudrise, a company that Exclusive Networks acquired last year.

“Exclusive Networks has emerged as a global force in the cybersecurity and services arena. I am excited to join their stellar team, returning to my roots in IT services and distribution,” said Crotty. “This position allows me to leverage the business acumen I’ve built as a distributor, a cybersecurity analytics platform provider, a services provider, and a channel advocate. I’ll dedicate these talents to help Exclusive drive the transformation of the cybersecurity space, allowing our vendors and partners to become more competitive in this complex market.”

According to Exclusive Networks, Crotty is critical to their overall strategy in enhancing value in North America with a broad background in the IT channel and a track record for delivering transformative services that elevate MSP capabilities and those of their end customers.

Exclusive Networks acquired Cloudrise in late 2024, which delivers services for MSPs and MSSPs such as managed and professional services for leading Security Access Service Edge (SASE) environments, Data Security Posture Management (DSPM), and Cloud Native Application Protection Platform (CNAPP) solutions.

Zebra Technologies appoints new ANZ Channel Head Ricard Tjiputra

Zebra Technologies, a provider of digitization and automation for frontline workflows, has appointed Richard Tjiputra as Head of Channels for Australia and New Zealand (ANZ). 

Tjiputra brings over 20 years of experience in sales and channel management across retail, transport & logistics, healthcare, and government sectors. In his new Sydney-based role, he will focus on boosting Zebra’s channel partnerships and driving regional growth. 

“I am honored to take on this role and continue working with Zebra’s talented channel partners across Australia and New Zealand,” said Tjiputra. “I look forward to deepening our partnerships, driving strategic growth, and delivering innovative solutions that help our customers digitize and optimize their operations. Together with our partners, I am excited to further enable a connected frontline, improve asset visibility, and advanced intelligent automation– building on Zebra’s strong foundation and contributing to the ongoing success of our customers in the region.”

Tjiputra joined Zebra more than a decade ago. He previously worked as a Sales Account Manager at Motorola Solutions.

Katata names Jesse Weber its Vice President of Partner Alliances

Provider of Professional Service Automation (PSA), Kantata, is appointing Jesse Weber as Vice President of Partner Alliances.

Weber brings more than 14 years of experience building technology partner ecosystems at organizations such as SAP and Sage.

In his new role, Weber will lead the organization’s strategic alliances program and focus on expanding its partner network to include private equity and consulting firms.

“Kantata partners are a cornerstone of our future. I’m excited to strengthen Kantata’s partner network of private equity firms and other organizations that deliver measurable value and growth,” said Weber. “Expanding Kantata’s strategic alliances will ensure our industry-leading PSA enhances service delivery and keeps our customers a step ahead in a dynamic economy.”

Simbian names Isaac Lujan as Global VP of Channel and Partnerships

Simbian, an AI security company, recently announced Issac Lujan as its new Global Vice President of Channel and Partnerships.

He will be responsible for building and managing Simbian’s worldwide channel, alliance, and overall ecosystem program.

“I am most excited to put our partners in the best place to succeed with our unparalleled technology solutions and dedicated resources to help not only our partners, but all of our joint prospects and customers, globally,” said Lujan. “Simbian’s AI agent represent the future of security operations, and I’m passionate about empowering our partner ecosystem to deliver these transformative solutions to organizations that need them most. Together, we’ll accelerate the AI transformation and make every security team more efficient and effective.”

Lujan brings extensive channel experience, including managing the North American channel and alliances program at LogRhythm, building a channel program at Hunters, and expertise with VARs, MSSPs, system integrators, and technology alliances.

Other C-suite additions, plus Palo Alto exec’s retirement, in August

KnowBe4 adds new CIO

KnowBe4, a cybersecurity platform focused on human risk management (HRM), has announced that Joel Kemmerer will serve as the chief information officer (CIO), leading the organization’s digital transformation initiatives.

“Joining KnowBe4 as CIO, my plan is to reimagine how we deliver value to our customers, embed operational excellence in everything we do, and empower our teams to transform and innovate at every level,” said Kemmerer. “I look forward to helping KnowBe4 accelerate its strategic vision and drive meaningful change that positions us for long-term success.”

With over 30 years of experience in IT leadership roles at companies such as N-able Inc., SolarWinds, and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), among others.

“As a bridge builder and contractor, Joel is able to translate complex technology ecosystems to be consumable by all users,” said Bryan Palma, CEO KnowBe4. “He brings unique business acumen to KnowBe4 and we are excited to welcome him to the team for this critical role in our growing company.”

Island names Tim MacCarrick Chief Financial Officer

Island, an enterprise browser company, recently appointed Tim MacCarrick as Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

“Island sits at the intersection of two major enterprise priorities: securing data and empowering users,” said MacCarrick. “What drew me to Island is its category-leading product-market fit and obsession with delivering exceptional customer value. I’m excited to add my experience to this talented team and help drive the company’s next phase of growth.”

MacCarrick’s C-suite experience includes holding CFO and COO roles at companies spanning manufacturing, automotive, retail, healthcare, life sciences, and financial services sectors. He joins the organization from project44.

MacCarrick will lead the organization’s global finance and legal operations, as well as related strategy.

Nir Zuk to retire from Palo Alto Networks

Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and board member, Nir Zuk, is retiring after more than 20 years with the company.

Zuk founded the company in 2005, bringing next-generation firewall and cybersecurity to the industry.

“I started Palo Alto Networks with a radical idea and the conviction to challenge a stagnant industry with a cybersecurity platform. Our vision has always been to lead from the front, and our recent intent to acquire CyberArk is a testament to that enduring ambition,” said Zuk. “With the most comprehensive security portfolio today, I am confident in Nikesh’s leadership and thrilled to pass the torch to Lee Klarich. He is a phenomenal technologist who will carry that competitive fire into our next chapter. This has been an incredible journey, and I leave with deep satisfaction, knowing the company we built together is stronger than ever.”

Lee Klarich, Chief Product Officer (CPO), has been appointed to the company’s Board of Directors and will also assume the role of CTO to lead the company in AI and “platformization.”

Liongard appoints Alexander Quilter as Chief Product Officer

AI-powered asset intelligence platform Liongard recently announced that Alexander Quilter will be taking over as the company’s Chief Product Officer (CPO), responsible for overseeing the organization’s product vision, strategy, and execution.

Quilter will also be tasked with ensuring every enhancement to the LiongardIQ platform delivers measurable value to partners, helping them secure environments, streamline operations, and accelerate growth.

“His track record of building impactful products that leverage AI to solve real-world security and operational challenges will be instrumental as we expand LiongardIQ to empower partners with deeper visibility, proactive security, and automated outcomes,” said Michelle Accardi, CEO of Liongard.

Quilter brings extensive senior leadership experience, holding roles at YouTube, N-able, Tanium, Cisco, Lancope, and Qualys.

Leslie Nielsen appointed CISO at Mimecast

Mimecast, a global organization, has announced that Leslie Nielsen will be joining the organization as Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). 

“I’m thrilled to join Mimecast on their mission to secure the human layer in the new age of AI-powered security threats,” said Nielsen. “The industry is at a pivotal point where defense strategies must place humans at the center, and Mimecast has long been at the forefront of the human side of security. I look forward to building on the company’s strong foundation and helping shape its next chapter of innovation and resilience.”

Nielsen will lead Mimecast’s global cybersecurity strategy, driving the company’s threat intelligence, risk assessment, and incident response initiatives, while ensuring regulatory compliance.

“We sought out a leader who can see beyond the noise and hype to deliver an innovative security platform, and Leslie fit the bill perfectly,” said Mimecast CEO Marc van Zadelhoff. “I’m excited to welcome him to the Mimecast team and for the experience he brings in scaling world-class security at a time where cyber defense is at its most critical. Leslie’s proven experience leading security teams will be invaluable to safeguarding our customers and hardening our resilience strategy.”

Tech4Change names new board and advisory council

Tech4Change, a nonprofit organization of channel vendors and partners, elected a new Board of Directors and Advisory Council for the terms 2025-2027/2028.

The board will feature returning leaders and new members focused on supporting community-focused charities across the U.S.

Among the changes to leadership are:

• Jasmina Muller, Chief Ecosystem Officer at Titan Cloud Storage, an experienced Tech4Change volunteer and board member, was named president.
• Kelly Danziger, GM of Channel Events at Informa Connect, was named vice president.
• Brad Dupee, head of national channel sales and development at Granite Technologies, will step back as president.
• Janet Schijins, CEO & co-founder of JS Group, who served as Chair of the Marketing Committee, and Scott Forbush, channel chief at Nextiva, who served as Co-Chair of the Fundraising Committee will step back as Board Members.

“11 years ago, I couldn’t have imagined the incredible individuals who would one day serve on the Tech4Change Board of Directors,” said Laura Dashney, co-founder of Tech4Change. “To witness the change and evolution of an organization making such an impact on local grassroots charities continues to be one of the greatest privileges of my career. There are unlimited possibilities and untapped opportunities in our future.”

Having a busy summer and missed last month’s roundup? No worries. Catch up on July’s leadership adjustments and shakeups across the channel.