Innovative Insights: Mark Marron of ePlus on Disrupting the Tech Landscape
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Chapter 1: The Journey of a Tech Leader
In today's fast-paced business environment, effective communication about objectives and goals is crucial. Regularly updating your team on successes and areas needing improvement fosters a productive atmosphere.
As part of our series on influential business figures, I had the opportunity to speak with Mark Marron, who has been at the helm of ePlus Inc. as CEO and President since August 1, 2016. He joined the Board on November 14, 2018. Beginning his journey at ePlus in 2005 as Senior Vice President of Sales, he ascended to COO by 2010. With three decades of experience, he previously held the role of Senior Vice President of Worldwide Sales and Services at NetIQ. Before that, he was General Manager of Worldwide Channel Sales at Computer Associates International Inc. Mr. Marron’s extensive experience spans North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, and he holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from Montclair State University.
Thank you for taking the time to speak with us! To start, could you share the story behind your decision to pursue a career in technology?
My childhood interests were quite diverse. I participated in sports but also engaged in math competitions and developed a fascination with technology. This blend of interests naturally led me to a career path that aligned with my skills and passions.
Entering the tech field during the late 1980s and early 1990s, it became evident that this sector offered abundant opportunities for future growth and the chance to attain the leadership roles I aspired to. My experience in sports instilled in me the importance of teamwork, which has been invaluable throughout my career.
Section 1.1: Lessons for Aspiring Leaders
What insights can you share for those aiming for C-Suite positions?
As you progress in your career, your work ethic and effort become paramount. While skills are essential, it's your attitude and commitment that are within your control. Managers appreciate team members who maintain a positive outlook and are willing to put in extra effort.
As you climb the corporate ladder, it's vital to remain a curious leader, always eager to learn and acknowledge that no one person has all the answers. Be open to new experiences and listen to those who have navigated similar challenges. Surrounding yourself with talented individuals and fostering an environment where they feel comfortable sharing ideas is crucial.
As a curious leader, I recognize that innovative concepts can emerge from my team, not just from me. Aligning everyone towards a shared goal is essential for success. For instance, our straightforward objective is to deliver services and solutions that benefit our customers, our company, and our shareholders.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Power of Mentorship
Section 1.2: Acknowledging Influences
Have there been individuals who significantly impacted your journey?
I am fortunate to have had many mentors throughout my career, but my father, Sylvester, stands out as my greatest influence. My siblings and I can all attest to his unwavering support. He instilled in us the importance of hard work — "Don't let yourself be outworked if you want to get ahead." His motivation and kindness have shaped my approach to life and work.
My father emphasized the value of a learning mindset, a principle I have embraced fully.
Chapter 2: Current Innovations and Future Directions
What exciting projects are you currently involved in?
As a technology leader, it’s invigorating to have ePlus at the forefront of global IT trends, such as service growth, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. From a business perspective, my focus has been on evolving ePlus from a traditional hardware reseller to a diversified service-oriented solutions provider. This transformation began with my appointment as CEO in 2016 and has included over ten strategic acquisitions both domestically and internationally.
This shift towards a service-led model has yielded remarkable results, expanding ePlus' global presence and enabling consistent earnings and margin growth, setting us apart from our competitors. Although we’re not immune to economic downturns, we pride ourselves on being "recession resilient," thanks to our diverse offerings and ability to generate recurring revenue through managed services.
Our clientele encompasses a wide range of industries, including mid-sized businesses, large enterprises, and Fortune 500 companies.
Section 2.1: The Exciting World of AI
What excites you most about the rise of AI?
We are just beginning to scratch the surface of AI's potential. In the future, AI will significantly enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve customer experiences across industries, particularly in manufacturing and healthcare.
Currently, many companies are cautiously exploring AI, assessing how it can optimize productivity, automate processes, and expedite product launches. This measured approach is beneficial.
At ePlus, we assist our clients in navigating the complexities of AI, from governance and integration to management and security, ensuring they understand the total costs associated with AI implementation.
Section 2.2: Addressing AI Concerns
What concerns do you have about the AI sector?
The cybersecurity risks associated with AI are considerable. Companies are only beginning to realize the vulnerabilities it can introduce to their operations and processes.
In the realm of cybersecurity, threats from dissatisfied employees, hackers, and other malicious actors have become increasingly sophisticated, complicating traditional identification methods for phishing and other cyber threats.
Organizations must evaluate their security governance and risk management practices to gauge how AI initiatives could impact their overall cyber risk profile. Additionally, risk managers need to be aware of how AI might inadvertently be incorporated into their operations through unsanctioned tools.
Section 2.3: Promoting Diversity in Tech
Given the gender disparity in your industry, what steps can be taken to engage more women in AI?
At ePlus, we are committed to addressing this issue. In partnership with Cisco, we founded the GRIT program (Girls Reimagining Tomorrow), aimed at empowering female students to build confidence and explore the vast opportunities within tech careers beyond coding.
We actively work to bridge the gap in STEM education for girls in middle and high school, knowing that consistent exposure and opportunities are vital for encouraging female students to pursue careers in technology.
Local GRIT chapters are led by volunteers from ePlus and Cisco, who collaborate with schools to identify students for our 16-week program. Since its inception in 2017, over 350 graduates have emerged from GRIT, with many advancing into STEM fields.
Chapter 3: Personal Reflections and Cultural Values
What is your favorite life lesson quote, and how has it influenced you?
Two quotes resonate with me:
"Your mind is like a parachute; it only works if it is open." This reminds me to stay curious and continually seek knowledge.
"Do not be afraid to chase your dreams; you might just catch one!" Chasing dreams requires hard work and determination, both of which are entirely within your control.
How you leverage these lessons can significantly impact your career and personal life.
Section 3.1: A Vision for a Better Future
If you could initiate a movement to benefit society, what would it be?
While I have many aspirations, I am particularly concerned about protecting vulnerable populations, especially the elderly, from fraud.
The rise in cybersecurity threats presents a challenge, but we can leverage AI and other technologies to safeguard those most susceptible to sophisticated scams and theft.
Section 3.2: Alternative Career Path
If you hadn't pursued a career in technology, what other field might you have considered?
I would have loved to be a high school baseball coach. Coaches play a vital role in shaping young lives during a critical phase of personal growth.
While I would aim for championship wins, my priority would be preparing players for success both on and off the field, emphasizing teamwork, work ethic, leadership, and resilience — lessons instilled in me by my father.
Chapter 4: Building a Robust Corporate Culture
What do you believe are the key elements for a successful corporate culture?
Firstly, regular communication regarding goals and objectives is essential. Keeping the team informed about successes and areas for improvement fosters a collaborative environment.
Secondly, cultivating a culture of collaboration and recognition is vital. Listening to feedback and celebrating teamwork strengthens the organization. Recognizing contributions, whether through awards or public acknowledgment, motivates team members.
Finally, focusing on winning and ensuring that the brand promise aligns with employee actions and objectives is crucial. For ePlus, our brand promise emphasizes being customer-first, service-led, and results-driven, which is integral to our culture and success.
People are naturally drawn to a winning team that makes strategic decisions, stays ahead of technology trends, and prioritizes customer satisfaction while providing opportunities for growth and development.
I’m proud to say that these values are foundational to ePlus’s culture, and I appreciate your time today!