Cybersecurity is top of mind for everyone these days. The third volume of Cisco’s Secure Outcomes Report, titled “Achieving Security Resilience”, shows that 96 percent of executives deem security resilience extremely important. In light of the growing concerns for resiliency and cyber protection, the TD SYNNEX Beyond Security 2023 Conference emerged as a beacon of knowledge and empowerment for Cisco partners. With the theme “Chart Your Course”, participants were able to collaborate with the industry’s top network security vendors, meet and trade best practices with industry peers, engage in breakout sessions and one-on-one subject matter consultations, and explore top security and networking solutions.
In a recent interview with Ezequiel Rios, Manager, Cisco Product Business Management at TD SYNNEX, and James McGregor, Product Business Manager for Cisco Security at TD SYNNEX, EDGE360 explored the key highlights and takeaways from the event.
TD SYNNEX Beyond Security 2023 brought together industry leaders, experts, and partners to the luxury resort town of Scottsdale, Arizona, from May 21-24. The Keynote speakers were from CISO and head of research at JupiterOne, Sounil Yu, and award-winning engineer of the famed Mars Rover “Perseverance” Mission, Dr. Moogega “Moo” Cooper. Dr. Cooper’s keynote address left an especially lasting impression on Rios and McGregor. Her discussion of Mars missions, a solar-powered helicopter flying within Mars’ atmosphere, and cybersecurity captured their interest. Dr. Cooper’s expertise and enthusiasm for space exploration resonated deeply, leaving attendees in awe of the possibilities that lie ahead. “She was very engaging and left some time at the end for a Q&A with the audience, which could have gone for hours if left alone,” Rios added.
Throughout the four days of the event, the numerous break-out sessions offered attendees and presenters the chance to engage in smaller discussions. The 41,000 agenda options offered by the event were designed to let participants chart their own course for how they wanted to best experience Beyond Security 2023. An emphasis for many discussions was placed on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the realm of cybersecurity. Rios pointed out that these discussions focused on ways “good guys” and “bad guys” are leveraging this technology to try and gain an advantage over one another. The exploration of AI’s impact on security shed light on emerging trends and potential solutions in the fight against cyber threats. McGregor also highlighted the importance of the sessions that focused on the different financial resources available for partners. These sessions provided a comprehensive understanding of how partners can leverage creative approaches to secure support for large and unexpected deals. The insights gained from these sessions gave partners new tools and ideas to navigate credit-related challenges and mitigate risks.
The event was a success not only because of the speakers and breakout sessions, but also because of the high level of engagement and excitement from partners. McGregor and Rios were impressed with the caliber of partners in attendance. Their Cisco booth witnessed a high footfall, with more than 50 people stopping by to engage in conversations. McGregor commented that the partners they spoke with actively participated in thought-provoking discussions, demonstrating genuine interest in learning about Cisco. In addition to manning the booth, Rios also highlighted the discussions fostered during the speed networking event. Despite the challenge of condensing Cisco Security into brief conversations, he was able to engage in fruitful exchanges with partners. The face-to-face interactions during the event proved to be incredibly valuable, allowing for further connections and knowledge exchange.
The TD SYNNEX Beyond Security 2023 Conference in Scottsdale, Arizona, was a resounding success, leaving attendees inspired and equipped with valuable insights. The event’s blend of engaging speakers, informative sessions, and meaningful networking opportunities ensured that participants gained a deeper understanding of emerging cybersecurity solutions and trends, the power of AI, and the possibilities of space exploration.
