The Art of Strong Client Relationships

Before Ahilan Sivaranjan officially joined Palo Alto Networks, he was already impressed by the company's ever-developing products, ongoing innovations, and unmatched customer service experience. His admiration for the company's mission and accomplishments was key before joining.

Fast-forward nearly four and a half years, Ahilan reflects on his role as a major accounts manager since being a pandemic hire, "A typical day in sales is always different. I've always been focused on client intimacy, but what I took from BJ, President at Palo Alto Networks, was that this philosophy is being pushed from the top down, which is what a seller wants to hear. Being supported in that goal of becoming part of a client's business and success is crucial.”

Why Palo Alto Networks is the Choice for a Cybersecurity Role?

Being at the forefront of client interaction, Ahilan explains, "If you’re looking to break into sales in the cybersecurity space, platformization resonates as the next big step for the industry. Our market-leading products enable nuanced conversations, leading to substantial deal sizes." He continues, "Every day in my world is different, and this variety makes the job incredibly interesting. Building relationships that evolve is key. What may start as a prospect can become a customer within a year and then an advocate."

Location, Location, Location

One day, Ahilan can be suited and booted, working out of client offices; on other days, he could host partners and customers in our brand-new office with sweeping views across London. Ahilan emphasizes, “London acts as a central EMEA hub, ideal for connecting with customers and partners, and serves as a gateway to our headquarters in Amsterdam for major security conferences.” Being in the heart of EMEA highlights its strategic importance for regional networking and business development. Besides, he is also a foodie, which means trying all of Europe's diverse cuisines!

Mentorship for Growth and Career Development

Throughout his career at Palo Alto Networks, growth has been crucial to Ahilan's success. Reflecting on his journey, he notes, “It’s been incredibly rewarding. I’ve seen people develop, and mentorship has helped me identify areas for improvement. Completing my Aspire training was pivotal. It was intense—a baptism into people management—but insightful and rewarding.” Ahilan expresses the supportive culture, “You can always seek advice here, which has been invaluable in navigating this fast-paced industry.”

Finally, when asked about advice for entering a Sales Role, he shares,  "Going into sales as an account manager can be super lucrative if you are early in your career. If you’re good at it, work at it. The growth in the space is significant. We're no longer just securing devices; we're securing society. As long as society exists, people will need solutions like what we deliver here at Palo Alto Networks."