Customer experience platforms don’t usually borrow from Premier League playbooks—but 8x8 just kicked off a program that does exactly that. The company, best known for its integrated CX and communications solutions, has launched the 8x8 CX Champions Fantasy Team, a global recognition initiative designed to honor the people who make standout customer interactions possible.

Each month, 8x8 will select a new “CX Champion” from around the world, recognizing individuals who go above and beyond to deliver exceptional service, protect infrastructure, or make customer moments unforgettable. Winners won’t just get bragging rights—they’ll also snag tickets to a Southampton Football Club home game (a nod to 8x8’s sponsorship of the team) and see their face lit up on the stadium’s big screen.

Putting Players on the CX Pitch

While software platforms and AI tools grab headlines, it’s often frontline agents, IT managers, and support leaders who carry the real weight of customer experience. 8x8’s program flips the spotlight onto those unsung contributors.

“This is a bit of fun with serious undertones because without great CX you’re nothing,” said Jamie Snaddon, GVP and Managing Director of EMEA at 8x8. Drawing a football parallel, he added: “Your CIO is like a goalkeeper—the last line of defence—while an IT manager is more like a winger: fast, agile, and keeping the operation moving. Both are essential; they just have different roles.”

Why This Matters

In today’s market, CX isn’t just table stakes—it’s the match-winner. Brands that deliver seamless, empathetic, and reliable customer experiences consistently outperform those that don’t. Yet, the individuals ensuring that reliability often remain invisible. By gamifying recognition through a football-inspired “fantasy team,” 8x8 is making CX advocacy both celebratory and relatable.

It also lands at a time when employee recognition is proving to be a critical piece of retention and engagement strategies. Highlighting CX heroes not only boosts morale but also reinforces the strategic importance of customer experience in long-term growth.

How to Get on the Roster

Nominations are open globally and can come from colleagues, customers, partners, or industry leaders. Technical and non-technical roles alike are eligible—from IT leaders to marketing teams to frontline support staff.

Winners will:

• Be inducted into the official 8x8 CX Champions Fantasy Team lineup

• Attend a Southampton FC home match as VIP guests

• Receive exclusive merchandise and recognition at St. Mary’s Stadium

Entries will remain open until the end of the English football season in May 2026, with winners announced monthly.

For an industry often obsessed with platforms and metrics, 8x8’s program is a timely reminder: behind every seamless customer journey is a human being keeping the ball in play.

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