Eric Herzog: A Guiding Light for Inclusion in the IT Channel

It’s not every day you see someone consistently honored for their unwavering commitment to a cause that transcends typical business metrics. Yet, here we are, celebrating Eric Herzog, Infinidat’s Chief Marketing Officer, who has once again been recognized as a 2025 CRN Inclusive Channel Leader. This marks his third consecutive nod in this incredibly vital category. You know, it really underscores just how deeply his dedication to fostering diversity and inclusion is embedded within the very fabric of the IT channel, and frankly, it sets a high bar for us all.

Herzog’s leadership isn’t just about strategy or market share; it’s about shaping a more equitable and representative future for the technology sector. It’s about recognizing that true strength comes from embracing every perspective, every background, and every voice. And when you look at the ripple effect his work has had, it’s truly impressive.

The Architect of Inclusion: Eric Herzog’s Enduring Vision

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If you’ve been in the enterprise storage industry for any length of time, you’ll know Eric Herzog’s name. His journey spans an incredible four decades, a testament to his longevity and profound impact. But it’s not just the years he’s clocked that stand out, it’s how he’s spent them – consistently championing inclusive leadership long before it became a boardroom buzzword.

Before he landed at Infinidat, he held significant roles like CMO and VP of Global Storage Channels for IBM’s Storage Division. Think about the scale of that. In those positions, he wasn’t just managing marketing campaigns; he was actively shaping channel strategy, influencing countless partners and professionals. His dedication to inclusivity wasn’t some hidden agenda either; it was right there, front and center. He notably served as the executive sponsor for IBM Storage at giants like Sirius Computer Solutions/CDW and Mainline Information Systems, and also for IBM Storage and EMC at Arrow. This wasn’t just about making sales; it was about building genuine, lasting relationships, ensuring that everyone at the table felt valued and heard. It sounds simple, I know, but trust me, it’s not always easy to execute at that scale.

His foresight on this issue really shone through in 2024 when CRN first recognized him as an Inclusive Channel Leader. At the time, he eloquently articulated the essence of his philosophy. He said, ‘The channel is rich with diversity, so tapping into it and mirroring it bring together different perspectives and solve challenges with new, creative ideas that unlock more potential for our channel partners.’

Let’s unpack that for a moment. What he’s really saying, and what I’ve observed firsthand, is that true innovation doesn’t happen in an echo chamber. When you surround yourself with people who think and look exactly like you, you’re only ever going to get one type of solution. But when you bring together a melting pot of experiences, cultures, and thought processes, that’s when the magic happens. Problems that seemed insurmountable suddenly have multiple angles of attack. Opportunities you never even imagined suddenly become visible. It’s not just about being ‘nice’ or ‘doing the right thing,’ though those are certainly compelling reasons. It’s about unlocking potential, pure and simple. For channel partners, this means a richer ecosystem, more creative problem-solving for their clients, and ultimately, a stronger competitive edge.

I recall a conversation not too long ago with a relatively new partner who was trying to break into a niche market. They were struggling, feeling like they just couldn’t crack the code. Eric’s team, through their inclusive approach, connected them with another partner who had a completely different cultural background and understanding of that market. The synergy was immediate, almost palpable. Suddenly, what seemed like an insurmountable barrier became an exciting new pathway. That’s the power he’s talking about, a real, tangible benefit you can actually feel.

Infinidat’s Cultural Canvas: Weaving Diversity into the Core Fabric

Under Eric Herzog’s perceptive leadership, Infinidat hasn’t just talked the talk; they’ve walked the walk, making significant, measurable strides in promoting diversity and inclusion. It’s not a superficial exercise for them; it’s deeply ingrained in their operational DNA.

One of the most impactful changes they implemented was a complete redesign of their recruitment site. This wasn’t just a cosmetic refresh. They meticulously analyzed every element, from the imagery and language used to the very flow of the application process, ensuring it genuinely reflected Infinidat’s inclusive values. Think about it: when a potential candidate, maybe from an underrepresented group, lands on your careers page, do they see themselves reflected there? Do they feel a sense of belonging even before they apply? Infinidat worked to ensure the answer was a resounding yes, signaling that everyone is welcome and that their unique contributions are eagerly sought after.

Beyond the digital storefront, they launched comprehensive initiatives focused on genuinely diverse hiring practices. This goes far beyond just ticking boxes. They actively pursue strategies that broaden their talent pools, reaching out to communities and educational institutions that might have been overlooked in the past. It means scrutinizing unconscious biases in their interview processes, perhaps implementing diverse interview panels to ensure a variety of perspectives are brought to bear on candidate selection. It’s about building a talent pipeline that truly mirrors the world we live in, and the world their customers and partners operate in. You want the best talent, right? Well, the best talent comes from everywhere.

But hiring diverse talent is just the first step. Nurturing it is where the real work happens. Infinidat has invested heavily in ongoing employee training. This includes critical modules on unconscious bias, helping employees and leaders recognize and mitigate their own hidden preferences. There’s also comprehensive cultural competency training, which equips teams with the skills to effectively collaborate across different backgrounds and communication styles. Imagine a sales team, for instance, that truly understands the cultural nuances of a global client base – that’s a competitive advantage right there. They also focus on inclusive communication, ensuring every voice feels safe enough to speak up and contribute, even if it’s an idea that challenges the status quo.

Leadership development within Infinidat also got a significant upgrade through an inclusive lens. It’s not enough for leaders to simply agree with D&I principles; they must embody them, champion them, and actively promote them within their teams. Infinidat developed mentorship and sponsorship programs specifically designed to uplift and advance individuals from diverse backgrounds into leadership roles. Because, let’s be honest, you can’t be what you can’t see. Having diverse leaders at the top inspires others and sends a powerful message throughout the organization.

And then there are the Employee Resource Groups (ERGs). These aren’t just social clubs; they are vibrant communities that play a crucial role in fostering a meaningful sense of belonging. At Infinidat, you’ll find groups like ‘Women in Tech,’ advocating for gender equity and professional development; a ‘Veterans Network,’ supporting former service members transitioning into corporate life; and a ‘Pride Alliance,’ creating a safe and affirming space for LGBTQ+ employees. These ERGs provide peer support, professional networking opportunities, and a direct channel for feedback to leadership. They empower employees, give them a voice, and help shape company policies from the ground up. It’s this collective effort, these interwoven threads, that create a tapestry where channel partners, customers, and employees alike feel truly seen, valued, and a genuine part of the Infinidat family. It’s a feeling, I think, that translates directly into loyalty and stronger collaboration.

The Business Imperative: Why Inclusion Isn’t Just ‘Nice to Have’

Let’s get real for a moment. While the ethical and moral arguments for diversity and inclusion are undeniably powerful, there’s also a compelling business case that forward-thinking organizations simply can’t ignore. In today’s hyper-competitive landscape, inclusion isn’t merely a corporate social responsibility initiative; it’s a strategic imperative.

Think about innovation, for instance. Diverse teams, those that bring together disparate backgrounds, experiences, and thought processes, demonstrably outperform homogeneous teams when it comes to problem-solving and generating new ideas. Why? Because they challenge assumptions. They approach challenges from multiple angles, often spotting blind spots that a uniform group might miss. It’s like trying to solve a complex puzzle with only one type of piece – you’re going to struggle. But give yourself a full set, and suddenly, the picture starts to emerge much faster and more clearly.

Consider enhanced market reach. When your internal team reflects the diversity of the global market, you gain invaluable insights into the needs, preferences, and cultural nuances of a broader customer base. You can develop products, services, and marketing messages that resonate more authentically with different demographics, opening up new revenue streams and strengthening customer loyalty. Can any organization truly thrive in today’s complex, interconnected market without embracing the full spectrum of human talent and understanding the diverse tapestry of its potential customers?

And then there’s talent attraction and retention. This is huge. In an era where skilled professionals are in high demand, companies with strong D&I cultures become magnets for top talent. People want to work where they feel respected, where their unique contributions are valued, and where they can bring their whole selves to work. It fosters a sense of psychological safety and belonging, which in turn leads to higher engagement, productivity, and lower turnover. It just makes good business sense, doesn’t it?

Stronger partner relationships are another direct benefit. Channel partners, much like employees, want to align themselves with companies that share their values, that operate with integrity, and that genuinely invest in equitable practices. When a vendor like Infinidat demonstrates such a clear, consistent commitment to inclusion, it builds trust and fosters a deeper, more collaborative partnership. It shows that they’re not just interested in the transaction, but in building a sustainable ecosystem where everyone can succeed. This isn’t just about good PR; it’s about building an economic advantage that compounds over time, making a company more resilient and adaptable to market shifts.

A Partnership Paradigm: Infinidat’s Channel Program and Beyond

Eric Herzog’s impact within the channel isn’t confined to internal initiatives; it reverberates outward, notably influencing Infinidat’s relationship with its robust network of partners. His latest recognition as a CRN Channel Chief for the third time is a powerful testament to his influence in shaping the channel’s strategic direction. What does it mean to be a ‘Channel Chief’? It means you’re not just managing a program; you’re a visionary, someone who can anticipate market shifts, empower partners, and drive collective growth through innovative strategies. Herzog clearly excels at this, and the channel ecosystem really feels his leadership.

And this certainly isn’t an isolated accolade. Infinidat’s Partner Program itself received a coveted 5-Star Rating in the 2025 CRN Partner Program Guide for the fourth consecutive year. You might wonder, what exactly makes a program 5-star? It’s not simply about generous margins, though those are certainly appreciated. It encompasses a holistic approach: robust training and certification pathways that truly equip partners with the knowledge to succeed; unparalleled sales and technical support that feels like an extension of your own team; joint marketing opportunities that amplify reach; and, crucially, a genuine commitment to partner profitability and mutual growth.

Now, here’s where the threads of inclusion and partnership weave together beautifully. An inclusive culture at Infinidat directly translates into a superior partner experience. How so? Well, when a company prioritizes diversity and ensures every voice is heard internally, that philosophy naturally extends to its external relationships. Partners feel heard, genuinely valued, and often, better represented. They know that their feedback matters, that their unique market insights will be considered, and that their diverse client base will be understood.

I remember one partner telling me just last month, ‘It’s not just about the margins with Infinidat, you know? They actually listen. They get us. It feels like a true partnership, not just another vendor relationship.’ That sentiment, that feeling of being gotten, is a direct result of the inclusive mindset Herzog has fostered. It means they’re not just selling a product; they’re building bridges, fostering trust, and creating an environment where partners feel empowered to bring their full capabilities to the table.

This kind of deep-seated trust and collaboration allows for a far more agile and responsive channel. In a world where customer demands are constantly shifting and technology evolves at breakneck speed, having partners who feel truly connected and aligned with your values becomes an invaluable asset. It fuels innovation, accelerates market penetration, and ultimately, drives sustainable growth for everyone involved. It’s an example of how investing in people and values truly pays dividends in the marketplace.

Shaping Tomorrow’s Tech Landscape: A Forward Look

As the technology landscape continues its relentless evolution, seemingly shifting beneath our feet like tectonic plates, Eric Herzog’s inclusive leadership doesn’t just serve as a model for others; it’s practically a north star for the entire industry. His approach isn’t a fleeting trend; it’s a foundational philosophy that profoundly enhances Infinidat’s internal culture, yes, but also significantly strengthens its crucial relationships with partners and customers.

By prioritizing diversity and inclusion with such unwavering dedication, Herzog isn’t just ensuring that Infinidat remains relevant in the enterprise storage sector; he’s positioning them at the very forefront of innovation and collaboration. Because, let’s face it, the challenges of tomorrow – be it leveraging cutting-edge AI, navigating complex multi-cloud environments, or securing against ever-evolving cyber threats – won’t be solved by homogenous teams clinging to outdated perspectives. They’ll demand the ingenuity, adaptability, and fresh thinking that only diverse perspectives can bring to bear.

His vision creates a ripple effect, encouraging other companies to re-evaluate their own D&I strategies. He’s showing that you can be highly successful, deeply competitive, and profoundly inclusive all at the same time. It’s not an either/or proposition. In fact, it’s increasingly becoming a ‘must have’ for sustainable growth.

So, as we look ahead to a future that will undoubtedly be more complex, more interconnected, and hopefully, more equitable, leaders like Eric Herzog are precisely who we need steering the ship. They remind us that while technology is about bytes and bandwidth, ultimately, it’s about people. It’s about empowering every single person to contribute their unique brilliance to the collective good. And in the world of enterprise storage, where precision and performance are paramount, it’s quite refreshing, isn’t it, to see the human element championed with such passion? Perhaps that’s the true secret sauce after all.

References

• Infinidat’s CMO Eric Herzog Named a CRN Channel Chief for the Third Time
• CRN Honors Infinidat’s Eric Herzog as a 2024 Inclusive Channel Leader
• The 2024 Inclusive Channel Leaders Awards
• Infinidat’s CMO Eric Herzog Named to HotTopics’ Global B2B CMO 100 List for the Second Consecutive Year
• Infinidat’s CMO Eric Herzog Named an OnCon Top 10 CMO/Marketer of the Year for 2025