Cato Networks appoints Tristan Elder as Vice President of Partner Channel in EMEA

Cato Networks, the developer of a network security platform for the AI era, has announced the appointment of Tristan Elder as Vice President of Partner Channel in EMEA, as the company continues to grow its partner ecosystem in the region and meet the growing demand for AI-related security solutions.

In this role, Elder will be responsible for Cato Networks' channel strategy in EMEA and further develop the company's partner program with a focus on global system integrators, managed service providers, consultancies and strategic resellers.

Elder comes closest from ExtraHop Networks, where he led the channel operations in EMEA. Prior to that he was part of the early management team at CrowdStrike, where he helped build and expand the business in EMEA during the company's rapid growth phase. He has extensive experience in developing partner channels and creating growth in segments such as financial services, public sector and large corporate clients.

The appointment comes at a time when demand for AI security expertise is increasing across the EMEA region, with organizations increasingly relying on their channel partners for advice on AI governance, security risks and the secure implementation of AI solutions.

Cato Networks believes that the company's platform provides partners with a scalable foundation to meet growing demand and support customers throughout the entire lifecycle, from implementation to ongoing operations and security management.

– I have already seen a huge demand for strategic discussions with both existing and new Cato partners, says Tristan Elder.

– Being part of a rapidly growing partner ecosystem is both inspiring and challenging, and I look forward to working together with our partners to ensure we continue to grow even faster.

– We are delighted to welcome Tristan to Cato Networks as our new Vice President of the Partner Channel in EMEA, says Karl Söderlund, Global Channel Chief at Cato Networks.

“What made Tristan stand out was not only his experience, but his previous experience in this type of journey. He has built channel operations in fast-growing environments, worked closely with partners, and helped organizations scale their operations. That experience is exactly what we need as we continue to invest in and expand our operations in the region.”.

The appointment comes as Cato Networks continues its strong growth, with the company ending 2025 with annual recurring revenue (ARR) of over $350 million, representing a 43 percent increase year-over-year and outpacing the growth rate of the broader SASE market.

Growth was further fueled by a $409 million Series G funding round last year. The funding valued the company at over $4.8 billion and brought total funding past $1 billion.

During the year, Cato Networks also the acquisition of Aim Security, which strengthens the company's expertise and capabilities in security for AI applications and AI interactions.