Introducing Channel Futures’ Channel Influencers for 2022

You’ll notice a substantial change in Channel Futures’ Channel Influencers for 2022.

Since launching in 2018, the Channel Influencer Awards have recognized the people, technologies, trends and organizations expected to shape the channel in the next year.  But we’ve revamped the awards for 2022. The technologies, trends and organizations categories have been eliminated. Instead, the focus is solely on individuals, with the list of influencers expanded from 10 to 50 honorees.

And not just any honorees. This exclusive lineup of 50 leaders represents the entire channel. It’s a diverse group that includes key decision-makers from top vendors as well as technology solutions brokerages and traditional tech distributors. We hand-picked them for the list because of their past accomplishments and the impact we expect them to make in the future.

“Channel chief” is a job title. “Channel leader” is an accolade earned for demonstrated dedication to the channel paired with an ability to inform, innovate and inspire the entire community. No matter what their job title, these 50 individuals have provided the vision and vitality to keep the channel moving forward.

Co-Influencers of the Year

TD Synnex’s Rich Hume

Upstack’s Christopher Trapp

Another change for 2022: There are two Channel Influencers of the Year. One from the traditional IT channel — Rich Hume, CEO of TD Synnex — and one from the traditional agent channel — Christopher Trapp, CEO of Upstack. M&A and private investment in the channel were the hot topics this year and both gentlemen found themselves in the thick of it — and flourished.

You can read more about Hume and Trapp in the 2022 Channel Influencers digital issue available for download on Friday, Feb. 25. But first, scroll through the gallery above and find out who made the list, why they made it and what they have to say