Martin Hosken
Chief Technologist at VMware Cloud Services
Martin Hosken is the Worldwide Chief Technologist for VMware Cloud Services. Martin works at the intersection of IT Architecture, Solution Architecture and Software Development. His primary focus is on cutting edge solutions that are part of today’s complex cloud market. He works with customers and partners to help them make the most of the opportunities presented by emerging technology and software development practices.
How did you get to become an expert in your key topics?
My early career was as a professional musician, so things have changed a lot. I pivoted into IT as a result of meeting a microsoft consultant who married a friend of mine. His work just sounded so interesting I was sold.
I worked several Network and Server Admin roles for Financial Services before learning about virtualization and VMware. From there i moved to EMC before moving to VMware 7 years ago.
What topic areas are you most passionate about?
I’m most passionate when i work directly with customer and partners of VMware. It is a privilege to help organizations succeed with technology you love. Working directly with customers also keeps you feet on the ground and firmly in the real world, and stops you getting carried away with marketing and hype.
Which influencers influence you within those key topics?
The industry is full of talented people who are passionate about what they do. I’m lucky that i get to work with many such individuals at VMware. Surrounding yourself with smart people is key to improving yourself. If you are always the smartest person in the room, you need to find a different room.
Outside of key topics, who else influences you?
I love to learn new things. Lifelong learning is an important part of who i am. I’m lucky enough to work closely with all of VMware’s Hyper-scale Cloud partners. This has help me learn new ways of thinking and new approaches to problems. I also have a beautiful 20 month old daughter, who as you would expect, is a huge influence.
How would you describe your offline influence?
I have written 4 books, dozens of white papers and blogs and i speak at events on a monthly basis, such as VMworld, re:Invent, partner events etc. I work with customers and partners daily, evangelising VMware’s industry vision and helping them design solutions that can improve their businesses.
What’s your best source of information for getting ahead of a story? What resource do you use to stay ahead of the trend?
I use a variety of sources such as the register, CRN etc. to learn of what is going on. From an internal VMware perspective, I am part of the Office of the CTO and PR teams, so i am kept informed on all innovation, M&A and GTM activities.
If a brand wanted to work with you, which activities would you be most interested in collaborating on?
What brands have you worked with?
Work regularly with IDC, Gartner, 451 Research etc. OEM, Cloud and Reseller Partners, as well as all of VMware’s hyperscaler partners, such as Microsoft, AWS, Google, Oracle and IBM.
Which non-paid activities would you be keen to take part in if the opportunity raised your profile or delivered value to your audience?
I would be keen to provide a quote for content or news article as well as create long-form or video content. I am also interested in attending or speaking at an event, podcast or a webinar.
What are your passions outside of work?
I have a keen interest in tech history, like to read, write and listen to and play a wide range of musical genres. I am dedicated to lifelong learning, continuous improvement and enjoys keeping up to date with new developments and future technologies.
What would be the best way for a brand to contact you?
Email or LinkedIn.