Sun's New Channel Chief Talks Up Partner Experience

Another thing worth noting about Wagner is his interest in managed services. As it turns out, Sun is readying a slew of managed services that will be rolled out in October.

"I fundamentally believe that a robust managed-services portfolio delivery capability is really having a critical path to fundamentally changing the landscape or revenue line for the company," Wagner said.

Jeff Barteld, director of Sun's U.S. channel sales, said he believes the channel will receive Wagner with open arms, and that his background is well-suited to running partner sales.

"Tom is absolutely up to the task," Barteld said. "He has a great track record. He's a seasoned VP; we look forward to working with him."

Meanwhile, outgoing partner chief Stroud said not to read anything into his departure. He insists he is going to take about a year off to spend some time with his family and then try something different.

"It is truly a retirement," Stroud said. "I have been at Sun for over 24 years, and it has been a fantastic experience for me. I am just hanging up the old Sparc chips and heading out to different pastures."

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For more about Wagner and his channel plans for Sun, read the Aug. 7 issue of VARBusiness.