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Joko, Regional Sales Manager at Palo Alto Networks

Joko Leliveld

Regional Sales Manager

EMEA | Blog | Career Development

Wednesday, January 14, 2026

Career Switch to Cybersecurity: My Journey at Palo Alto Networks

Hello everyone! I'm Joko, and a bit over a year ago, I embarked on an exciting new chapter in my career, joining Palo Alto Networks. Having come from a CRM company, I was deeply intrigued by the cybersecurity market and its crucial role in our increasingly digital world. What I found at Palo Alto Networks was not just a job, but a mission that truly resonates with me: making the world safer for future generations.

The Leap Into a Career in Cybersecurity

My interest in cybersecurity stemmed from a growing awareness of the complex threats businesses and individuals face daily. I wanted to be part of a company that was at the forefront of this fight, constantly innovating and protecting. Palo Alto Networks stood out as a leader, and I was eager to contribute.

From the moment I joined, the onboarding process was exceptional. I quickly immersed myself in the intricacies of the market and learned how to best support our customers in securing their environments. This swift integration was a testament to the culture here. The supportive environment fostered deep collaboration—everyone was more than willing to jump in, share knowledge, and help me understand how we continue to provide solutions that lead to supporting our customers in securing their environments. 

Internal Career Growth: Moving From Commercial to Regional Sales Management

My initial role in Commercial Sales was a fantastic learning ground. I had the opportunity to connect with a diverse range of clients, understand their challenges, and demonstrate how our solutions could safeguard their operations. The entire BeNelux team, which I found to be incredibly welcoming and focused on inclusion, was instrumental in my success. Their support created an environment where diverse perspectives were valued, and learning and growth thrived.

This collective effort, coupled with incredible management that truly prioritizes development, paved the way for my next step. I'm incredibly proud to make the transition into the role of Regional Sales Manager! This move is a testament to the company's commitment to fostering talent and providing opportunities for internal growth. It's truly inspiring to be part of an organization that believes in its people and empowers them to reach their full potential. The entire process also reinforced the importance of integrity; every interaction, every customer promise, is built on a foundation of trust.

Work-Life Balance and Flexibility at Palo Alto Networks

One of the aspects I truly appreciate about working at Palo Alto Networks is the flexibility it offers. While our work is demanding and impactful, there's a genuine understanding of the importance of work-life balance. For me, that means being able to pursue my passion for working out.

I love to stay active, and the flexibility I have in my role allows me to seamlessly combine my work commitments with my fitness routine. In fact, I've even had the pleasure of doing some cycling with colleagues, which is a fantastic way to connect outside of work while staying active. This ability to pursue my hobbies not only keeps me energized but also makes me a more focused and effective professional.

Thinking About Your Next Move? How to Join the Palo Alto Networks Team

My journey at Palo Alto Networks has been incredibly fulfilling, both professionally and personally. If you're contemplating a career switch, especially into the dynamic and critical field of cybersecurity, I wholeheartedly encourage you to explore the opportunities here.

It's a place where you can make a real difference, contribute to a safer world, and grow immensely in your career. If my story resonates with you, and you're thinking about making a switch, I'm always happy to have a chat and more than willing to reach out. Let's connect!

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