Bio:
Will Townsend is a frequent Forbes contributor and advises some of the largest networking and telecommunications companies in the world. His more than thirty years of experience spans tenures spent with iconic companies such as Dell & Hewlett-Packard, serving in several senior level roles including sales, marketing, product management, and business development.
Presently, Mr. Townsend manages the networking infrastructure and security practices for Moor Insights & Strategy, an analyst firm regarded as a leader in the technology sector based on principal and founder Patrick Moorhead’s #1 ranking by ARInsights. Mr. Townsend also ranks consistently within the top 100 technology analysts in the world according to ARInsights and by same measure is considered one of the top networking analysts in the world and unique in his coverage of both the enterprise and service provider markets. He also hosts a weekly 5G podcast, the G2 on 5G, that can be found on all major streaming platforms.
How did you get to become an expert in your key topics?
I spent the early part of my career with companies such as Dell, Compaq and HP serving in sales and product management roles. In total over 30 years of industry experience before becoming a technology analyst.
What sub-topics are you most passionate about?
Bridging the Digital Divide as well as the application of connectivity to revolutionize verticals such as agriculture, manufacturing, retail, healthcare and more.
Who influences you on these topics?
Innovative startups and infrastructure providers as well as customers that are early adopters of technology that has the potential to accelerate digital transformation.
What challenges are brands facing in this space?
Rising above the noise of whitewashing with techno jargon and finding innovative and unique ways to communicate value propositions.
What do you think the future holds in this space?
The promise of connecting the unconnected and driving social inclusion and economic prosperity.
What brands are leading the way in this space?
AT&T, T-Mobile, Ericsson, Samsung Networks, and Cisco to name just a few
If a brand wanted to work with you, which activities would you be most interested in collaborating on?
Podcasts, webinars, papers, speaking, video work
What are your passions outside of work?
Cycling and scuba diving
Source: https://onalytica.com/blog/posts/interview-will-townsend/
