Paul Thompson

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

SKILLS

ABOUT PAUL THOMPSON

Technical Leader and solution architect with 20+ years of international pre-sales experience in the communication service provider and enterprise industries, specializing in network service assurance, AI-driven performance analytics, SaaS-based reporting and analysis platforms, network automation and MEF carrier Ethernet. This is underpinned by a solid general Engineering foundation. Extensive customer-facing career working with Tier 1 Service Providers, Mobile Network Operators, Business Ethernet and Finance Service Providers and Enterprises, working for several international vendors and providing technical consultancy and thought leadership throughout. Currently working as a Sales Enablement Manager and Technical Architect focused on Cisco\'s Cloud and AI infrastructure portfolio.Previously led Cisco’s Technical Marketing Engineering strategy focused on customer network readiness for AI traffic, leveraging a range of tools and platforms including agentic AI and carrier-grade service assurance and analytics. Prior to this, owned the solution and platform aspects of the Accedian–Cisco partnership, successfully integrating Accedian’s Skylight platform into Cisco’s automation and provider connectivity portfolios.Known for building and mentoring high-performing Engineering teams, managing global accounts, and delivering measurable business outcomes including 25% YoY revenue growth and $100M+ in new revenue for a new product line.A results-driven, customer-focused leader and Engineer with deep expertise across the consultative sales lifecycle and a strong passion for applying AI, automation, and orchestration to transform modern networks. Demonstrable experience in technical leadership, marketing, Engineering, but also extremely agile and able to adapt to new situations and challenges.Wide ranging technology-focused knowledge, impeccable attention to detail, and dedication to total customer satisfaction. Very commercially aware, excellent ability to prioritise tasks and delegate when necessary; always ready to step up and learn new skills and methodologies.Over-achieved on Sales target for 3 consecutive years within Tellabs/Coriant, in very challenging market conditions, and achieved targets every year within Accedian Networks.Specialities: AI-driven service assurance and analytics, NFV-based performance monitoring, network automation, mobile network architectures, service provider networks, digital microwave radio (short-haul and long-haul trunk systems).Key Customer Accounts: Colt, Vodafone Global (+OpCos), Orange Global (+MCOs), Swisscom