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Michael Bushong

Experienced Technology Executive in Networking and Cloud Solutions

Michael Bushong is the Group Vice President for Cloud-Ready Data Centers at Juniper Networks.1 With over 20 years of professional experience, he has an extensive background in the technology and networking industry.2

Career Journey

Michael's career path has been quite diverse:

  1. He started by designing jet engines in college.
  2. Transitioned to become a tech writer.
  3. Worked at silicon design companies.
  4. Moved into networking, where he discovered his aptitude for strategy.
  5. Explored the Software-Defined Networking (SDN) space.
  6. Eventually returned to Juniper Networks, where he now leads the data center business.1

Current Role and Responsibilities

As Group Vice President for Cloud-Ready Data Centers at Juniper Networks, Michael:

  • Oversees Juniper's data center business, which encompasses hardware, software, and cloud technologies.1
  • Focuses on strategies related to service provider (SP) and cloud/hyperscaler relationships.1
  • Provides insights on industry trends, such as the complexities of SP/cloud/hyperscaler partnerships and competition.1

Expertise and Contributions

Michael is known for:

  • His strategic thinking in the networking and cloud space.
  • Discussing topics like horizontal vs. vertical offerings in the industry.
  • Providing insights on the distribution of profit pools in the service provider and cloud markets.1

Michael Bushong is based in San Diego and has over 500 connections on LinkedIn.2 His unique blend of technical knowledge and strategic insight makes him a valuable voice in the cloud and data center industry.

Highlights

Aug 28 · linkedin

Looking for DC sales specialists. Inquire within. Solid strategy, excellent products... incomplete GTM.

So I have talked a bit about Nokia DC. The hardware is solid and the portfolio lacks some of the gaps I have had to manage around before. The embedded software means two things: stuff will just work, and there is not a lot of post-sales support required. Objectively an order of magnitude better on quality than other stuff I have been affiliated with. The operations story is strong and looks to be a world beater, tho I will elaborate on that separately.

The problem? People think Nokia makes handsets. We ought to be in the US intelligence community for how good we are at keeping secrets. And companies can pour hundreds of millions down the brand awareness hole and get little in return. So having good sales people really matters.

We are hiring in a few areas. In the US, we have positions in cloud and enterprise. You gotta speak DC tho. We have positions in APAC and EMEA as well. The people who will do well are folks who can build stuff rather than rely on an elaborate structure that requires only strict adherence. You're going to have to talk value, and we simply have to stop overthinking things. You cannot educate people into interest. You have to meet them where they are.

The pros: portfolio, engineering team is awesome, and stuff just works. The cons: "I used to love my Nokia handset!" and a little lighter on structure than other 23B companies. The ambiguous: you get/have to work with me.

I've made a career doing bold stuff. Nokia DC will absolutely take off. You can be on the rocket or in the char marks behind it. Drop me a message if you're a fit.

cc Sarah Nesland Paul Unbehagen Jr Kent W. Vach Kompella Matt Young for some extra reach.

Related Questions

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How did Michael Bushong transition from designing jet engines to his role at Juniper Networks?
What are Michael Bushong's views on the relationship between hyperscalers and service providers?
What challenges does Michael Bushong face in his role at Juniper Networks?
How does Michael Bushong's background in tech writing influence his current position?
Michael Bushong
Michael Bushong, photo 1
Michael Bushong, photo 2
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Experience

Group Vice President, Cloud-Ready Data Center at Juniper Networks since March 2022
Vice President roles at Juniper Networks and Brocade, covering Software Products, Solutions, Marketing, and Enterprise and Cloud Marketing

Location

San Diego, California, United States