Proofpoint launches partner program

Messaging security vendor, Proofpoint, has launched a reseller program to help partners develop their technical skill set.

APAC director of sales, Gerry Tucker, said the vendor wanted to expand its channel presence in the market.

“In order to build that we have to make it easier and add value to our partners,” he said.

The program will consist of two levels – Premium and Authorised certified partners. The primary differentiator between the two categories is the level of technical certification partners require.

“The reason we’re doing that is because we recognise there will be some resellers who we will deal with on an opportunistic basis and we don’t make it difficult for them to deal with Proofpoint,” he said.

Premium partners will also get access to additional tools, marketing funds, rebates and incentives. They will also have advanced access to the partner portal, lead generation programs, technical and product information, demonstration systems and evaluation units at a higher rate than Authorised resellers, Tucker said.

“These partners are really taking the time and effort to get certified on our product as a strategic partner,” he said. “We want to ensure we’re driving business to those organisations as much as we can and we want to ensure they’re getting a good return on investment.”

Proofpoint has up to 25 active partners in the market place. Tucker said he would like to expand that partner base.

“A lot of our business is focused on Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra and we’re looking to grow our national presence in terms of Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide,” he said. “What we’re looking to focus on is where we could add value to a particular partner to where they can add value to us. From that perspective it’s around geographic, vertical presence and the value-added services they can bring to the table both to us and the user.”