Meet the Chiefs: Dave O'Callaghan, VMware
In this edition of Meet the Chiefs, we sat down with Dave O'Callaghan, senior vice president of VMware's Global Partner Organization to learn more about the man behind the virtualization company's channel business.
Dave O'Callaghan, senior vice president, Global Partner Organization at VMware
Dave O’Callaghan, senior vice president, Global Partner Organization at VMware
O’Callaghan: My first professional job was with H&H Data Products, a technology reseller. As a salesperson, I learned how to leverage partner programs and resources to drive value for my customers, something I reflect on every day in my current role.
The VAR Guy says: That sounds like an important first job! It’s always good to have an inside perspective of the resellers, especially as a channel executive.
O’Callaghan: The Tesla Model S roadster. Last spring VMware awarded the top salesperson in the channel for Virtual SAN with this car—I was jealous!
The VAR Guy says: Now that’s what we call an incentive to sell more product! We bet that partner looks good cruising around town in that beauty.
O’Callaghan: Prior to delivering the VMworld Europe 2014 Partner Keynote, I was able to enjoy southern France celebrating 30 years of marriage with my beautiful bride, Colleen.
The VAR Guy says: That sounds like a lovely way to celebrate an anniversary. France is, after all, a pretty romantic place.
O’Callaghan: Geoffrey Moore’s “Crossing the Chasm” never gets outdated, even as our world’s business models change with great liquidity.
The VAR Guy says: Moore’s classic guide to marketing in high-tech industries is widely considered to be one of the best business books ever written. Moore’s other works include, “Inside the Tornado,” and “Dealing with Darwin.”
O’Callaghan: My last splurge item was a smartphone.
The VAR Guy says: That seems like a pretty reasonable purchase, considering how much of your work likely is done while you’re away from your desk.
O’Callaghan: I’m a huge long-suffering Cleveland Browns fan so in my spare time I try to catch up on NFL football. It’s been a crazy season to say the least, with all the team moves and the Johnny Football drama.
The VAR Guy says: That reminds us that the Superbowl is Sunday! We hope you have fun watching it, even if the Browns aren’t playing.
O’Callaghan: I considered becoming a teacher when I was a younger. I’m still able to have that mentoring experience by serving as an adjunct professor at the University of Denver’s Daniels College of Business.
The VAR Guy says: Very cool! Your students must be gaining a lot of valuable insight into the business world considering your wealth of channel experience.
O’Callaghan: “The Wizard of Oz.” I have fond memories of watching it with my kids. I also think the movie offers a great perspective on what is most important in life, such as being brave and honest.
The VAR Guy says: This is one of the best movies ever made, if you ask us. Even after all these years the film still has a magical quality to it.
O’Callaghan: “The Wizard of Oz.” I have fond memories of watching it with my kids. I also think the movie offers a great perspective on what is most important in life, such as being brave and honest.
The VAR Guy says: This is one of the best movies ever made, if you ask us. Even after all these years the film still has a magical quality to it.
In this edition of Meet the Chiefs, we sat down with Dave O'Callaghan, senior vice president of VMware's Global Partner Organization to learn more about the man behind the virtualization company's channel business. O'Callaghan joined VMware in 2013 as channel chief, where he was responsible for leading the company's partner strategy across all markets. O'Callaghan brings more than 30 years of experience in the technology industry to the role, which includes senior-level positions with companies including Cisco Systems and Hitachi Data Systems.
What is Meet the Chiefs?
Meet the Chiefs shines the spotlight on the channel’s head honchos and offers an opportunity to learn a little bit about the person beyond his or her company profile. Click on each photo to learn more about the channel chief you’re viewing.
Want to be included in an upcoming Meet the Chiefs? Send an email to The VAR Guy Associate Editor Michael Cusanelli at [email protected] for more information. He’s really good at answering emails on time, we promise.
Follow Michael on Twitter @MCusanelliSB and remember to add him on Google+ and LinkedIn.
About the Author(s)
You May Also Like