Zscaler makes key hire as it looks to revamp its partner programme

Cloud security provider Zscaler has announced the appointment of Karl Soderlund as its new senior vice president of worldwide partners and alliances.

An experienced executive, Soderlund has previously channel leadership roles at Palo Alto Networks, Imperva, and Aruba.

In his new role at Zscaler, Soderlund is tasked with advancing and modernising the company’s partner programme by developing and executing a competitive go-to-market strategy, as well as leading its channel team.

In an announcement, Zscaler chief operating officer Dali Rajic said the company’s position as a leader in cloud security has enabled it to “become a destination for top talent”.

“Karl’s deep partner expertise and proven track record with the execution of highly strategic partner programmes at top networking and cyber security companies demonstrates that he is the right industry veteran to take our channel partner programme to the next level,” he said.

“As we continue to make meaningful investments in our partner model, I am excited to welcome Karl to the company and am confident that his contributions will deliver results and support company growth.”

Soderlund joins the business from Palo Alto Networks, where he held various channel leadership roles across an almost six-year spell at the business.

There, he worked to attract and retain top talent, architect award-winning channel programmes, as well secure new partners. Prior to that, he also held senior roles at Aruba Networks, Avaya, HP, Cisco Systems, and Fortinet.

Zscaler Summit Partner Programme

Responsible for delivering 95 percent of the company’s business, the Zscaler Summit Partner Program comprises of systems integrators, managed service providers (MSPs), solutions providers, and distributors.

The tiered initiative focuses on co-sell activities to help enterprises leverage the Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange platform, and includes deal registration, sales tools, marketing resources, as well as training and support.

As the company’s new channel chief, Soderlund will be responsible for leading and modernising the program, as well as implementing a brand new go-to-market strategy to help drive the business forward.

“Zscaler is an innovator and leader in cloud security that has consistently delivered on the promise of zero trust while redefining network security with the world’s largest inline cloud security platform,” Soderlund said.

“With a total addressable market of $72B, it was a clear choice to join Zscaler. I look forward to bringing my experience to dramatically elevate Zscaler’s partner program.”