Scott Okupski

Global Practice Leader, Professional Services at Palo Alto Networks

Scott is a Professional Services leader at Palo Alto Networks. He leads a global practice of consultants who are experts in automating network security deployments and operations. Prior to his work in network automation, he led Professional Services teams at a variety of founder-led FinTech firms. He led re-orgs to better manage the “collective wisdom” and improve the leverage of senior consultants. He helped create a Client Services group during one firm’s initial move into North America. This was a start-up culture where he hired the team, developed "best practices" and managed initial client projects. He was subsequently promoted to Global Head of Professional Services. He believes Professional Services consultants are the ambassadors of technology firms. The partnerships they build with customers are more valuable than any technology. He loves building teams that reward great work and allow people to grow. He is most proud of his efforts to promote great consultants into leadership roles where they can groom the next generation of talent.