C1, a global technology solutions provider focused on transforming connected human experiences, has announced the expansion of its board of directors. The newly appointed members bring deep expertise across IT services, enterprise sales, and technology development, positioning the company for topline growth, margin expansion, and continued world-class customer service.

With these strategic additions, C1 aims to further enhance its leadership position and continue providing innovative solutions to its clients, including Fortune 1,000 companies.

1. Bob Pryor – Chairman of the Board

   • A 40-year veteran in the IT services industry, Bob Pryor most recently served as CEO of NTT Data Services. His extensive experience includes senior roles at Fujitsu Americas, EY, Capgemini, HP, and EDS. As chairman, Pryor will leverage his leadership to help accelerate C1's growth and innovation in the AI-driven era.

2. Arjun Bedi – Board Member

   • Formerly a member of Accenture’s Global Management Committee, Arjun Bedi brings 35 years of leadership experience, specializing in high-growth business segments. During his tenure, he helped Accenture nearly double its global client base, significantly contributing to its revenue growth. Bedi’s expertise in tech-enabled transformations for large clients will be instrumental for C1's strategic growth.

3. David Shirk – Board Member

   • David Shirk most recently served as President of Sabre, a global travel technology company. With 30 years of leadership experience in IT, Shirk has driven change and transformation at organizations like HP, Siemens, CSC, and Vignette. His expertise in IT leadership and corporate transformation will support C1’s expansion in the technology solutions space.

4. Greg Patterson – Board Member

   • Greg Patterson is an Executive Director at Silver Point Capital, where he has led investments in IT services and other industries. With over 12 years of experience in corporate finance, accounting, and M&A, Patterson’s financial and strategic insights will help C1 maintain its competitive edge.

Strategic Vision and Future Growth

The newly expanded C1 board will work closely with CEO Jeffrey Russell to drive continued innovation, accelerate growth, and deliver cutting-edge solutions that meet the demands of the evolving AI-driven market. Bob Pryor emphasized the board's commitment to C1's leadership and its dedication to delivering compelling solutions to clients, enhancing their business outcomes in the rapidly evolving technology landscape.

As C1 continues to evolve as a premier global technology solutions provider, the addition of these industry experts brings invaluable insights that will guide the company through its next phase of growth and market leadership.

Mitchell, an Enlyte company and leading provider of technology and information solutions for the P&C claims and repair industries, has announced a strategic partnership with Protech Automotive Solutions, the largest national provider of ADAS diagnostic scanning and calibration services. The integration of Protech's ADAS ID3 solution with Mitchell's Diagnostics as a Service (DaaS) platform and Predictive ADAS functionality aims to provide repairers with AI-generated calibration reports, ensuring safer and more efficient repair processes for vehicles equipped with advanced safety systems.

The Importance of ADAS in Modern Vehicles

With ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) becoming a standard feature in nearly all new vehicles, collision repairers face increasing challenges in identifying and properly calibrating these critical components. These systems are essential for maintaining vehicle safety, and ensuring that ADAS components are accurately restored to OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) specifications is crucial for safe road operation.

The Integration and its Impact

1. AI-Generated Calibration Reports

   • The integration allows repairers to access a comprehensive report generated by AI, detailing manufacturer-recommended calibrations based on data from the vehicle, estimate, diagnostic trouble codes, and OEM guidelines. This will significantly streamline the repair planning process and enhance diagnostic accuracy.

2. Mitchell’s DaaS Platform

   • Mitchell’s DaaS platform and patented diagnostics workflow, when combined with Protech’s ADAS ID3 technology, deliver a seamless experience for repairers. This integration enhances efficiency, reduces rework, and ensures that critical safety systems are returned to their pre-accident condition.

3. Protech's ADAS ID3 Solution

   • Protech's ADAS ID3 solution utilizes AI and machine learning to analyze thousands of data points gathered from vehicle scans and other sources, offering precise repair recommendations that align with OEM calibration guidelines. This removes the manual, error-prone processes traditionally associated with determining the necessary ADAS calibrations for repairs.

Industry Implications

As advanced safety systems continue to become standard across vehicles, ensuring that collision repairers have easy access to accurate ADAS calibration data is critical. Jack Rozint, Senior VP of Repair Sales at Mitchell, emphasized that access to precise calibration information is vital for returning collision-damaged vehicles to the road safely. He stated, "Our DaaS platform, patented diagnostics workflow, and integrations with technologies like Protech's ADAS ID3 make this process smoother, while also streamlining the repair planning process."

A Game-Changer for the Industry

This integration between Mitchell and Protech offers a significant step forward in enhancing repairer efficiency and improving the safety of repaired vehicles. Don Mikrut, VP of Protech, noted that traditional manual calibration processes can be time-consuming and prone to error. By leveraging AI and machine learning alongside Mitchell's platform, repairers can significantly improve the accuracy and efficiency of repairs, ultimately reducing the risk of errors and ensuring vehicles are returned to their OEM specifications.

Convoso, a leader in AI-powered contact center platforms, has launched a reimagined brand identity and redesigned website, underscoring its dedication to empowering sales teams. With nearly two decades of expertise in outbound solutions, Convoso's refreshed look and messaging reflect its growth and commitment to lead generation and exceptional customer experience.

• New Logo and Visual Identity

  • A modernized logo and design that convey energy, trustworthiness, and a forward-thinking approach.
  • Updated visuals to ensure brand consistency across channels and align with the company’s mission of industry innovation.

• Updated Messaging and Positioning

  • Messaging tailored for today’s contact center revenue teams, with an emphasis on growth, compliance, and maximizing ROI.
  • Strategic positioning that speaks to the evolving needs of sales-driven contact centers.

• Redesigned Website

  • Enhanced, user-friendly interface that provides easy access to Convoso’s suite of solutions.
  • Improved navigation and resources, enhancing support for customers seeking optimized contact center performance.

Partnerships in Branding and Development

• Brand Strategy by Made Studios

  • San Francisco-based agency Made Studios led the brand strategy and visual identity development.
  • Drew Meyers, Founder of Made Studios, highlighted Convoso’s focus on empowering clients with increased connections, conversions, and revenue.

• Website Development by 9thCO

  • The Toronto-based development partner for Convoso’s website, 9thCO, collaborated to ensure an intuitive and engaging user experience.

Convoso’s brand refresh reflects its ongoing commitment to innovation and leadership in the contact center industry. As it continues expanding into growth markets and enhancing its technology, the updated identity aligns Convoso’s visual and strategic focus with its role as a premium solution for sales and lead generation teams.

Demandbase, a leader in account-based go-to-market (GTM) strategies for B2B enterprises, has unveiled its 2024 State of B2B Advertising report. This comprehensive analysis captures the latest trends and provides actionable recommendations for B2B marketers. Based on surveys of industry professionals, the report highlights a shift toward data-driven, AI-powered, and account-based strategies.

Key Takeaways from the 2024 State of B2B Advertising Report

• Privacy-Forward Advertising as the New Standard

  • Growing data privacy concerns are driving B2B advertisers to adopt privacy-compliant practices.
  • Emphasizing trust, these strategies aim to balance effective targeting with user privacy, reshaping audience engagement.

• Influencer Marketing Gains Importance in B2B

  • Once dominant in B2C, influencer marketing is now vital for B2B brands seeking credibility and authority.
  • Industry influencers help build trust and engagement with decision-makers, providing B2B brands with added reach and authenticity.

• The Shift to Automated and Programmatic Advertising

  • Manual ad placements are being replaced by AI-driven programmatic advertising, enhancing efficiency and targeting.
  • Programmatic advertising allows B2B marketers to optimize ad spend, reach key audiences, and achieve higher precision.

• Cross-Channel Campaigns for Enhanced ROI

  • Integrated, multi-channel campaigns, particularly across LinkedIn and Connected TV (CTV), are essential for engagement and conversion.
  • Demandbase reports substantial ROI boosts for customers combining CTV and display ads, demonstrating cross-channel's impact.

Expert Insight on B2B Advertising Trends
Kelly Hopping, CMO at Demandbase, notes the evolving landscape of B2B advertising, impacted by new technologies, changing customer behaviors, and economic pressures. The 2024 report provides insights on how marketers can leverage these trends, particularly the growth of Account-Based Marketing (ABM), automation, and privacy-first approaches.

Demandbase’s 2024 State of B2B Advertising report is an essential resource for B2B marketers looking to stay competitive. By understanding and adopting these trends privacy-forward practices, influencer marketing, programmatic ads, and cross-channel strategies—B2B enterprises can position themselves for future success.

SeenThis, a leader in adaptive streaming technology, has announced the appointment of two new agency partners, expanding its reach across Australia. With the addition of Tara Duncan in Brisbane and Michael Lopes in Sydney, SeenThis is set to strengthen its commercial team and accelerate adoption of its instant-load, high-quality video advertising technology.

New Appointments in Key Regions

• Tara Duncan as Agency Partner, Brisbane

  • Based in Brisbane, Tara Duncan brings 15 years of experience from her previous role as Consortium Agency Sales Manager at News Corp.
  • Known for her expertise and strong client relationships, Duncan is expected to make an immediate impact within Brisbane’s agency landscape.
  • Her role will involve supporting a national portfolio of agency clients, while driving adoption of SeenThis technology across Queensland.

• Michael Lopes as Agency Partner, Sydney

  • Joining from Seven West Media, Lopes brings a deep understanding of agency partnerships, particularly with GroupM and Dentsu.
  • In his role, Lopes will focus on fostering relationships with key agency partners in Sydney, helping drive growth and adoption of SeenThis technology among client teams.
  • His experience positions him to support performance-driven, sustainable video campaigns for SeenThis clients.

Statements from SeenThis Leadership
Adam Roberts, General Manager ANZ, highlighted the significance of these appointments, emphasizing that Duncan and Lopes bring valuable relationships and expertise that will drive revenue growth and elevate SeenThis’s presence across Australia.

About SeenThis’s Adaptive Streaming Technology
SeenThis’s proprietary adaptive streaming technology offers a solution to traditional ad-serving challenges, allowing programmatic ads to be streamed instead of downloaded. This innovation enables high-quality, instant-loading video content that reduces CO2 emissions by using significantly less data compared to standard HTML-5 display ads, supporting performance and sustainability goals.

With new commercial leadership in place, SeenThis is well-positioned to advance its footprint across Australia, delivering cutting-edge video streaming technology to agency clients nationwide. Tara Duncan and Michael Lopes will play critical roles in driving adoption and integration of SeenThis’s sustainable, high-performance solutions.

Qualtrics, a leader in the experience management (XM) category, has announced Rachita Sundar as its new Chief Financial Officer. With over 20 years of experience at high-growth companies, Sundar will bring strategic leadership to Qualtrics' global finance team, positioning the company for continued growth and innovation.

About Rachita Sundar’s Background and Expertise

• Extensive Financial Leadership Experience

  • Sundar joins Qualtrics from HubSpot, where she served as SVP of Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A).
  • Previously, she spent over a decade in finance leadership roles at Microsoft, enhancing her strategic expertise in global operations.

• Strategic Vision for Qualtrics

  • At Qualtrics, Sundar will lead the global finance organization, providing advice to support the company's expansion and strengthen its position in the XM category.
  • Her focus will be on delivering impactful growth strategies that align with Qualtrics' mission to elevate customer and employee experiences.

Statements from Leadership
Zig Serafin, CEO of Qualtrics, expressed confidence in Sundar’s ability to drive Qualtrics’ future success, noting her world-class track record in finance and strategy. Sundar stated that she is excited to join Qualtrics, recognizing experience management as the next technological frontier and emphasizing her commitment to the company’s growth and vision.

Why Sundar’s Appointment Matters

• Strengthening Experience Management
  • Sundar’s leadership is expected to help Qualtrics innovate further in experience management, an area where organizations are increasingly investing.
• Empowering Qualtrics’ Growth
  • As Qualtrics continues expanding globally, Sundar’s expertise will be critical in steering the financial strategies to support this growth.

Rachita Sundar’s appointment marks a pivotal step for Qualtrics, reinforcing its commitment to leadership and innovation in the experience management sector. Her role as CFO is expected to drive financial and strategic growth, setting the stage for Qualtrics' continued expansion.

Bolster, a leader in brand security, has appointed Rod Schultz as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). With over 25 years of expertise in secure technology, SaaS, and product innovation, Schultz’s leadership is set to elevate Bolster’s mission of protecting brands from AI-driven phishing and impersonation attacks, a growing threat in the digital landscape.

Rod Schultz’s Background and Vision for Bolster

• Extensive Security Experience

  • Schultz has held senior positions at top tech companies, including Apple, Adobe, and Zoom.
  • His recent role was SVP of Product and Engineering at Dust Identity, focusing on security solutions.

• Leadership Goals at Bolster

  • Schultz aims to foster a culture of innovation, aligning Bolster’s workforce to combat phishing threats through enhanced brand security solutions.
  • He plans to expand Bolster’s use of generative AI, targeting fraudulent schemes to protect brands and their customers.

The Growing Threat of AI-Driven Phishing

• Increase in Phishing Attacks

  • Over 90% of cyberattacks begin with phishing, a number bolstered by the use of generative AI.
  • AI has significantly reduced the cost and time needed for attackers to create fraudulent emails, websites, and social media posts.

• Bolster’s Technological Edge

  • Utilizing large language models (LLMs) and a comprehensive phishing dataset, Bolster has taken down hundreds of thousands of malicious sites and applications in 2023 alone.
  • Bolster’s automation ensures rapid takedowns, with 95% of threats addressed without manual intervention.

Statements on Schultz’s Appointment

• From Rod Schultz

  • Schultz expressed his commitment to driving an innovative, customer-centric culture at Bolster.
  • He emphasized the importance of adapting to evolving AI-driven threats and maintaining brand authenticity for clients.

• Investor Insights

  • Umesh Padval, managing director at Thomvest Ventures, noted Schultz’s experience as key to Bolster’s continued industry leadership and AI-driven security advancements.

Bolster’s Recent Innovations

• LLM-Based Transformers

  • Bolster has launched eight transformers to preempt phishing across email and social channels.
  • The new Bolster AI Security for Email feature leverages crowd-sourced data to detect and neutralize threats in real time.

• Enhanced Threat Analysis and Takedown Automation

  • The latest features offer rapid, scalable solutions that reinforce customer trust and protect brands from reputational harm.

Under Rod Schultz’s leadership, Bolster is positioned to expand its AI-powered brand security capabilities, leading the industry in combating sophisticated, AI-driven phishing and impersonation attacks. With new features and a reinforced commitment to innovation, Bolster aims to secure brands globally against rising digital threats.

Alianza, Inc., a leader in cloud communications for service providers, has unveiled the Alianza Marketing Portal (AMP). This robust platform consolidates training, onboarding, and over 100 go-to-market resources to support service providers in enhancing their sales, marketing, and customer support functions. By simplifying access to essential materials, AMP empowers service providers to improve time-to-market and gain a competitive edge.

Why AMP is a Game-Changer for Service Providers
Service providers today face increasing pressure to equip their teams with up-to-date training materials and product information. AMP addresses these challenges with a comprehensive, centralized solution designed to streamline and simplify:

• Efficient Resource Access

  • AMP consolidates all go-to-market materials, ensuring providers can easily find and utilize relevant information.
  • Provides role-based access, allowing team members to view materials that directly align with their responsibilities and product focus.

• Customized Training and Onboarding

  • Service providers gain access to on-demand, structured onboarding and training modules.
  • AMP’s built-in Learning Management System (LMS) offers scalable courses for faster, more efficient skill-building across Alianza’s offerings.

Key Features of AMP

1. Personalized Experience

   • Users access content customized to their roles and products, enhancing clarity and relevance.
   • Role-aligned resources reduce complexity, enabling teams to market and support Alianza services more effectively.

2. On-Demand Training Modules

   • AMP’s LMS enables teams to self-pace through training, reducing onboarding time and ensuring faster time-to-market.
   • Continuous updates ensure that users always access the latest product insights and best practices.

3. Co-Branding and Customization

   • AMP offers brandable marketing assets, allowing providers to retain their brand equity while promoting Alianza services.
   • Co-branded resources empower providers to position Alianza solutions effectively with their end customers.

Leadership Insight
Jonathan Wagner, Chief Commercial Officer at Alianza, emphasizes the importance of AMP in driving customer empowerment: “AMP is designed to equip service providers with turnkey, brandable resources that reflect Alianza’s commitment to innovation. Our goal is to provide the tools operators need to excel in a competitive landscape and achieve successful outcomes for their customers.”

With the launch of AMP, Alianza sets a new standard in service provider enablement, offering a centralized, customizable portal that streamlines training and go-to-market efforts. AMP stands as a strategic asset for service providers, enhancing their agility, strengthening their brand, and accelerating their journey to market success.