Avant Promotes XO Alums to Lead Global Channel Sales and Engineering

Chicago-based master agent Avant Communications has promoted two channel veterans to oversee global channel sales and engineering.

Jennifer Gallego is now executive vice president of global sales, while Shane McNamara is executive vice president of engineering and operations. The announcement comes after a year of “record growth” for Avant.

Avant’s Jennifer Gallego

Gallego joined Avant in 2009 and previously was executive vice president of channel sales for the West. McNamara joined Avant in 2017 and filled a similar role in the East.

“The rapid transition to remote work led to increased demand for technology across the board,” said Ian Kieninger, Avant‘s CEO. “We’re preparing for continued growth in 2021 by elevating those who have played pivotal roles in our success this year and leading up to 2020. We see an opportunity to take our processes to the next level and continue innovating in the channel to drive the trusted adviser movement forward. No one is better prepared to make that vision a reality than the dynamic duo of Jennifer and Shane.”

Continued Partner Investment

As global channel sales leader, Gallego plans to continue to invest in VAR partners globally. From the vendor side, Avant plans to bolster the team that supports supplier engagements to strengthen the relationship between master agents and vendors, and master agents and partners.

“Continued evolution, and leveling up for our employees and partners, is always top of mind at Avant,” Gallego said. “I am proud to be part of the immense year-over-year growth we’ve realized. With over 20 years experience in the channel, I have a profound understanding of the channel nuances.”

Avant’s Shane McNamara

Gallego spent nearly nine years at XO Communications before becoming part of the Avant team 11 years ago.

McNamara, also an XO alum, has an extensive industry background that includes gigs at Qology Direct and CDW.

“Jennifer and I have developed a strong collaborative relationship over the last four years,” McNamara said. “And this split is a natural evolution of years of hard work on both fronts. I’m thrilled to continue our partnership as we look to the future. Avant has always disrupted the channel space, but we are planning on game-changing disruption in the next few years.”