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Michael Kaunitz
Making the internet a better place
Professional Background
Michael Kaunitz is a distinguished security specialist renowned for his extensive expertise in the realm of Cloud Security and Networking. With a career spanning over two decades, he has made significant contributions in advancing the cause of cybersecurity through his work in a variety of esteemed organizations. Currently, he serves as a Senior SASE (Secure Access Service Edge) Specialist at Cloudflare, where he helps reshape how businesses integrate security with their network connectivity in today’s highly digital landscape. Michael’s transition to Cloudflare marks a pivotal shift as the company is at the forefront of the move towards Zero Trust architectures, a model he believes is essential for the future of enterprise security. His insights on this transformative journey reflect a deep understanding of the evolving security paradigms and the emerging role of cloud technology in safeguarding sensitive information.
Before joining Cloudflare, Michael was a Senior Cloud Security Sales Specialist at Proofpoint, where he articulated the importance of implementing robust security measures against the ever-growing cyber threats. His tenure at Akamai Technologies is particularly noteworthy, where he held multiple key roles including Senior Enterprise Security Account Executive, Partner Evangelist for Cloud Networking, and Major Account Executive. His diverse positions within the company allowed him to develop comprehensive strategies and initiatives that significantly enhanced the security offerings available to various organizations. Furthermore, as a Senior Sales Engineer there, he leveraged his technical expertise to educate clients on effective security measures and the implementation of Akamai's vast technology resources.
In the earlier stages of his career, Michael held leadership roles not just in sales but also in systems engineering and operations, demonstrating his versatility across different facets of the tech industry. He served as the Director of Systems Engineering at Exodus Communications and further expanded his management proficiency as the Director of Operations at Cabletron Systems. His foundational experience began in networking, where he worked as a Network Analyst at St. Paul Reinsurance and Network Support at Smith Barney, honing his technical skills that would later serve him in higher strategic positions.
Education and Achievements
Michael Kaunitz holds a BBA with a focus on Management Information Systems (MIS) from Pace University. This educational background equipped him with the critical thinking skills and technical knowledge necessary for navigating the complex world of cybersecurity and information systems management. Throughout his career, he has committed to continuous learning, remaining abreast of the latest trends and technologies in cybersecurity. This dedication not only solidifies his expertise but also reinforces his role as a thought leader in the security community, especially regarding the adoption of Zero Trust principles.
Michael’s significant achievements include developing and executing security strategies that have safeguarded enterprises across various sectors from cyber threats. He has been instrumental in fostering partnerships and alliances that expand the security capabilities of the organizations he has represented. His ability to communicate complex security concepts to diverse audiences has enabled him to drive home the urgency of adopting advanced security frameworks, such as Zero Trust.
Achievements
Michael has been a pivotal contributor to many successful cybersecurity initiatives, reflecting his passion and commitment to making the digital world a safer place. His collaboration with high-profile teams and industry experts has led to innovative solutions that address the continuously evolving landscape of technological vulnerabilities. Michael is recognized not only for his sales achievements but also for his ability to bridge the gap between technical and business aspects of cybersecurity, ensuring that organizations can implement effective security measures without compromising operational efficiency.
As a leading voice in the cybersecurity community, Michael participates in conferences and discussions, sharing his knowledge on Zero Trust architectures and their implications for the future of security in the digital enterprise. By actively engaging in thought leadership, he has established himself as a critical figure in guiding companies through the complexities of cloud security and ensuring their readiness for a new security paradigm where traditional methods must evolve or become obsolete.
tags':['Zero Trust', 'Cloud Security', 'SASE Specialist', 'Cybersecurity', 'Pace University', 'Cloudflare', 'Akamai Technologies', 'Proofpoint', 'Network Engineering', 'Systems Engineering', 'Information Systems Management', 'Digital Security', 'Sales Expertise'],
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Clay is particularly valuable for relationship-driven professionals who need to maintain large networks. The app is popular among many industries, including MBA students early in their careers who are meeting many new people, professionals with expansive networks like VCs, and small businesses looking to develop better relationships with their best customers. Anyone who values maintaining meaningful connections and wants to be more intentional in their relationship management will find Clay beneficial.
Clay offers competitive pricing in the personal CRM market. Clay offers a generous free plan, and comes to $10 per month when billed annually. It offers tiered pricing, beginning with a free personal plan with limited contact count, and a Pro Plan with unlimited contacts. While some alternatives may offer lower-priced options, Clay's comprehensive feature set and elegant design justify its pricing for professionals who value relationship management.
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