It takes focus, determination, a fierce passion for partners, and a great sense of humor to be successful doing business in the IT channel in 2022. As we emerge from a global pandemic and re-engage with colleagues, one leader continues to rise above the crowd: Lauren Rodabaugh, Director of Global Partner Marketing at Pure Storage®. I’m excited to share that CRN has recognized her success working with partners on their Rising Female Stars of the IT Channel 2022 list.
The Path Taken
Lauren joined Pure in 2017 as Senior Partner Marketing Manager in our Americas organization, working with key National and Strategic teams. Her passion to help partners across all routes to market was clear immediately and continues to grow with each role she accepts. Whether it’s working with partners on events and roadshows or leading strategic business planning and program definition, Lauren always asks herself, “How will this help my partner be successful?” Her impact is evident in the pipeline growth that drives expansion in partner business every day.
But Lauren’s mentoring and leadership to new employees and colleagues also earns her the title “Rising Female Star.” Always one to raise her hand with a suggestion or to lead by example, she wants the women—and everyone at Pure—to rise together. Her passion for the Orange is contagious, and her unwavering commitment to the channel aligns with Pure’s 100% partner focus. She’s the example that others in the Global Partner Organization admire and strive to emulate.
Lauren isn’t the only Pure allstar recognized by CRN!
Words of Wisdom
One tremendous asset she possesses is her ability to communicate with anyone, anywhere, at any time, on any topic. It shows how well versed she is in business and in life. It’s given her many opportunities to learn from others and apply that knowledge in her work.
Lauren recognizes that it takes a village to help people succeed. One of her favorite quotes is from @GinniRometty, former CEO of IBM. In an interview, Rometty said, “Growth and comfort don’t coexist.” Lauren has applied the spirit of these words throughout her career, taking on new challenges that push her out of her comfort zone. She makes it a priority to listen and absorb as much as she can when interacting with new people. She likes to say her work is her craft. The best way to develop is to listen, learn, and go!
As a rising star, she’s often asked for advice from employees who are early in their careers. Another leader that Lauren admires, Shirley Chisholm, shared advice that Lauren applies at work: “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” Lauren has used these words to find her professional voice and to trust in the expertise she brings to the partner table every single day. She is mastering the art of building and establishing her brand as an example to future rising stars.
From how to set up a partner event to planning strategic investments to grow the pipeline, Lauren looks for solutions beyond the status quo and pushes others to “think outside the [storage] box” to gain an edge and drive success. She’s a great leader on the team.
Rise With This CRN Star
Today and every day, Lauren is excited about all the possibilities of working with partners to help customers uncomplicate data storage, forever. We’re thankful for both her grit and determination to help partners help customers. Explore open job opportunities with us to rise up in your own career at Pure. 
