Juniper Networks adds top tier to partner programme

Juniper Networks has announced several channel programme enhancements ahead of their introduction next month, with the vendor looking to further identify and reward its top partners.

The headline change to the global Juniper Partner Advantage Program (JPA) is the introduction, from January, of a new top-tier Elite Plus level for those select few that qualify for greater rewards and investment.

Elite Plus will offer “superior support” and dedicated business development and demand generation resources for those that qualify.

The vendor is also rolling out a number of other enhancements, including expanding its Champions programme so that those with technical and sales roles at partners with particular expertise can stand out on the Communities platform. There will also be virtual sales pods where the channel can work alongside the vendor in real time to discuss account and sales plans.

Juniper has also committed to continuing to build on the investment efforts it made this year, which were described at the time by someone in the firm’s channel team as the biggest amount it had ever put into partners.

“Juniper Networks is a partner-centric company, and the investments we’ve made in the programme for 2022 will accelerate our strong partnerships and continue us all on the path of hyper-growth,” said Gordon Mackintosh, vice-president of global channel & virtual sales at Juniper Networks.

Mackintosh said the firm had continued to expand its portfolio, with the acquisitions this year of Mist Technologies, 128 Technology, Apstra and Netrounds to provide the channel with a wider solution to pitch to customers.

“We believe our acquisition strategy and innovations have created the most compelling portfolio of networking solutions available today,” he added. “By bringing that spirit of innovation into the partner programme, with a new elite tier and enhanced community, we plan to see rapid growth and expansion next year and beyond.”

The changes come into effect from the start of next year and partners were given the chance at a virtual partner summit yesterday to go through the changes with the vendor.

As well as the top tier, enhanced sales support and the ability for partners to highlight their expertise, Juniper is adding a learning academy platform to support the channel, which will be a home for training content and webinars.