Cato Networks, a leading provider of Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solutions, has recently appointed Karl Soderlund as the company’s new global channel chief. With an impressive 30-year background in cybersecurity and networking, Soderlund brings a wealth of experience to his new role at Cato Networks. His primary responsibilities will include overseeing the global channel team and further expanding the company’s partner program on a global scale.
Prior to joining Cato Networks, Soderlund held the position of senior vice president of worldwide partner and alliances sales at Zscaler, where he successfully restructured the partner go-to-market strategy. Before that, he served as senior vice president of worldwide channel sales at Palo Alto Networks, where he significantly grew partner-led sales during his tenure. Soderlund has also held executive sales positions at other prominent technology companies such as Imperva, Aruba Networks, HP, Fortinet, and Cisco.
Cato Networks’ Vice President of Global Sales, Nick Fan, expressed his enthusiasm for Soderlund’s appointment, highlighting his track record of success in driving channel sales growth and operational excellence. Fan is confident that Soderlund’s leadership will have a positive impact on both partners and customers alike. Soderlund himself is excited to join Cato Networks at a pivotal time for the company, citing its position as the industry leader in the SASE market and its commitment to innovation as key factors in his decision to come on board.
In his new role, Soderlund will be taking over from Frank Rauch, who recently retired after a distinguished career spanning over 40 years. Rauch had previously served as the global channel chief at Cato Networks, leaving behind a legacy of visionary leadership and dedication to driving channel growth. Fan expressed the company’s gratitude for Rauch’s contributions and wished him well in his retirement.
In addition to Soderlund’s appointment, Cato Networks also announced the promotion of Addie Finch to vice president of channels for the Americas region. Finch, who previously held the position of area vice president, Americas – VARs and strategic partners at Cato, has played a crucial role in the company’s success in the region. Fan praised Finch’s leadership skills and industry expertise, expressing confidence in her ability to lead the channels business for the Americas.
Overall, Cato Networks is looking towards a bright future with Karl Soderlund at the helm of its global channel team. With a strong focus on driving channel growth and delivering value to partners and customers, Soderlund’s appointment represents a key strategic move for the company as it continues to lead the way in the rapidly evolving SASE market.