Zyxel re-brands as a solution provider, hires channel head

Zyxel Communications has unveiled a global re-brand along with the appointment of industry veteran Peter Hannah as its new head of UK channels.

The re-brand to “Your Networking Ally” emphasises the company’s shift from a hardware manufacturer to a solution provider, developing more end-to-end solutions for consumers, businesses and service providers.

“Becoming a solution provider is an extremely exciting transition for Zyxel,” said Lee Marsden, president of Europe, Zyxel. “We wanted to bring in someone with experience and a successful track record to head up our channel team as we come to a pivotal point in our business evolution.

“Peter truly understands what it takes to migrate from a hardware supplier to a solution provider and we’re delighted to have him lead this exciting new chapter for Zyxel.”

He added: “We will continue to recruit and invest in the VAR channel and etail/retail as we believe consistent support for all routes to market in the channel is key. We are in this business for the long term and have remained consistent since opening our UK offices in 2004. We see ourselves as a solution provider to all segments of the market and a Networking Ally to our partners.”

Zyxel says it is revamping its partner programme to reflect the move from product provider to a provider of business solutions.

Previously, Hannah led Netgear’s commercial business unit operations for three years, and brings over 20 years’ experience in networking, security, wireless, unified communications and telecoms having worked across multiple industry sectors.

Prior to Netgear, he held positions at Avnet and BT where he was responsible for developing partner relationships through resellers across the UK and Europe for ICT services.

“I’ve seen Zyxel grow into a leading brand in the networking space,” said Hannah. “With a new brand identify, a focus on customer-centric solutions and exciting plans for partners, the decision to join Zyxel was a no-brainer. It’s an exciting time and I’m delighted to have joined the team to help drive the company forward.”

He will be based in Zyxel’s Wokingham office in Berkshire.

@AntonySavvas