Exclusive: Tech Data's Rob Tomlin steps into Sarah Shields' shoes at Dell EMC

Tomlin becomes UK channel VP at Dell EMC as Shields steps into European role

Tech Data's Advanced Solutions boss Rob Tomlin is set to join Dell EMC as UK channel VP, stepping into the role vacated by Sarah Shields who has been promoted to a European role.

Dell EMC has been looking for a new UK channel boss since Shields announced in June that she would become VP of enterprise channels. At the time she said she would remain in her UK role until a suitable replacement had been found.

Tech Data today confirmed that Tomlin (pictured) will depart for the vendor.

A spokesperson for the distributor said: "Tech Data has announced to staff that Rob Tomlin will be leaving to join Dell EMC as VP of channels.

"Rob has been a key player in the integration of both SDG and Avnet [Technology Solutions] into the Tech Data business and we thank him for the work he has done in setting up the Advanced Solutions division.

"He leaves a very strong management team behind him in which we have every confidence. The leadership of the Advanced Solutions management team will be picked up by [UK MD] David Watts and we have total belief that the division will continue to grow and build upon the value it is bringing to the channel."

The spokesperson confirmed that Watts will maintain control of the Advanced Solutions business until a replacement for Tomlin has been found.

Speaking to CRN Shields said: "This is the best job in the world and I am super excited to hand the reigns over to Mr Tomlin. I think he is one of the strongest channel advocats in the UK right now. This is exciting for both Dell EMC and our partners.

"Rob understands the Dell EMC culture and he understands the channel. What makes this exciting is that Rob and I have worked closely together over the last couple of years since we launched with Tech Data and Avnet, so this is a continuation of the journey."

Shields added that Tomlin will join Dell EMC early in Q4.