Chris Doggett and Kaspersky Lab: A PartnerPath Connection
How did former Sophos Channel Chief Christopher Doggett wind up at Kaspersky Lab, the security software provider? The answer involves PartnerPath (the former Amazon Consulting). Doggett had been out of the channel for a bit. When he decided to potentially jump back into this market, he dialed PartnerPath CEO Diane Krakora. Smart move.
By checking in with Krakora, Doggett heard that Kaspersky Lab was ramping up its partner program and looking to make strategic hires. Next up, Doggett connected with Kaspersky Lab Channel Chief Nancy Reynolds, and the wheels started in motion…
But that wasn’t Kaspersky Lab’s only move. The company also managed to hire former Trend Micro channel expert Jean Lozano. Another smart move, considering Lozano played a key role in promoting service provider licensing to MSPs — pushing Trend Micro far beyond the traditional VAR market.
During a chat today with The VAR Guy, both Reynolds and Doggett described some potential next moves at Kaspersky Lab. Among the shortlist of priorities: Pouring gasoline on the fire and really igniting Kaspersky Lab’s engagements with channel partners that want recurring revenue opportunities.
“We’ve had 13 years of pure channel focus,” said Reynolds. “This year and the next couple of years we’ll be in break-out mode. And that really requires a level of expertise and a reputation that really matters in the channel. Partners matter. And more importantly: The right partners matter.”
Doggett, in turn, is on board to help ensure Kaspersky Lab has the right partners. “I love the channel as you know and decided I wanted to get back into it,” said Doggett. “I put my periscope up and made a few phone calls. One of the first was to Diane at PartnerPath.” During that conversation, Reynolds’ name and the Kaspersky Lab brand came up.
“It was a natural next move because I’ve been a big fan,” said Doggett. “When I looked at the whole picture I realized Kaspersky Lab is the next great story in our space. It should be a ton of fun but a lot of work.”
Looking ahead to the Kaspersky Lab partner conference in May, it’s safe to say Reynolds, Doggett, Lozano and other team members are brainstorming and preparing more recurring revenue opportunities for channel partners.
What are those opportunities? Check this blog again in a few hours for some surprise links right here…
