BlackBerry to double headcount in some channel roles as it expands partner programme

It is helping customers focus on preventing breaches before they happen

BlackBerry has announced that it is expanding its partner programme to help counteract the international escalation of cyber threats.

The security software provider says it is enlisting large and small EMEA-wide strategic partners and regional specialists to help customers focus on preventing breaches before they happen.

It comes as the BlackBerry® 2022 Threat Report found SMBs are at particular risk and the target of 11-13 attacks every day.

"Demand for human threat experts is through the roof. To that end, BlackBerry is doubling down on focus on its channel partners in EMEA, including MSSPs, to ensure they're set up for success," said Axel Conrad, head of EMEA channel at BlackBerry.

BlackBerry's channel updates include enhancements to help managed security service providers (MSSPs) capture demand for managed extended detection and response (XDR) services.

Products such as CylanceGUARD, CylancePERSONA and CylanceGATEWAY are now available to partners, and will be included in seller compensation on MSSP deals as well as its 'Protect and Earn' partner incentive programme.

BlackBerry has also announced it plans to grow its channel team, with the aim of doubling employee headcount in roles such as partner management, customer success and channel enablement.

It claims the extra headcount will give partners the technical and sales support to "compete and win in a crowded EDR/XDR market".

Conrad said: "With 92 per cent of our EMEA sales secured through the channel, BlackBerry is committed to offering the channel a highly competitive rebate programme at 12 per cent independent of any discount.

"Specialised partners with a strong understanding of the cybersecurity market in EMEA should make themselves known: a fruitful collaboration is in store."