
For the fourth consecutive year, CRN has recognized Alex Ruslyakov, head of the global channel organization at Acronis, as a Channel Chief.
CRN, a premier source for IT channel news, analysis and insight, annually bestows the honor of Channel Chief on top leaders throughout the IT channel ecosystem. According to CRN, Channel Chiefs “work tirelessly to ensure mutual success with their partners and customers.” CRN’s 2025 Channel Chiefs list will be featured in the February 2025 print issue of CRN® Magazine and online beginning February 3.
Consistently a leader in his field
“This year’s honorees exemplify dedication, innovation and leadership that supports solution provider success and fosters growth across the channel,” said Jennifer Follett, VP, U.S. Content, and Executive Editor, CRN, at The Channel Company. “Each of these exceptional leaders has made a lasting channel impact by championing partnerships and designing creative strategies that get results. They’ve set a high bar in the channel, and we’re thrilled to recognize their standout achievements.”
Ruslyakov has served as head of the channel organization at Acronis since 2020. He joined the company nearly 20 years ago and has worked in a wide variety of roles. Ruslyakov drives worldwide partner programs and partner account management functions. His 2025 Channel Chief recognition once again demonstrates both his and Acronis’ commitment to focusing on growing the Acronis partner ecosystem and fueling partners’ growth.
"I’m incredibly proud to be included on CRN's Channel Chief's list for four consecutive years," Ruslyakov said. "Acronis partners are at the heart of everything we do, and the success of our program is a testament to the trust and collaboration we share. By combining our industry leadership and deep expertise in cyber protection, we are committed to offering the most secure, efficient and cost-effective solutions on the market.”
Channel organization accomplishments in 2024
Ruslyakov and his team are dedicated to supporting partners and becoming an extended business development unit for them. Their mission includes sharing market knowledge, participating in joint business planning, facilitating proactive marketing and sales activities, and helping manage joint initiatives.
In 2024, one of the Acronis channel organization’s accomplishments was enabling a new sales development funds program to provide direct financial investment in MSPs’ business growth. The group also expanded the #SportsIgnite Program for MSPs to increase brand awareness and help attract new clients. In addition, Ruslyakov and his team launched MSP Academy courses to provide business development, marketing and commercial training for partners.
Ruslyakov and the channel organization plan to continue to provide value for partners in 2025 by enabling them to invest in data security, platform integrations and process automation, with the ultimate goal of decreasing operational costs and increasing the value and scalability of their service offerings.
A comprehensive program for channel partners
The Acronis #CyberFit Partner Program is open to channel members with a variety of business models, including managed service providers, resellers, developers and ISVs, affiliate partners, and OEM partners. The Program offers benefits to participants in several categories, including:
- Financial: Rebates, marketing development funds for joint marketing, and referrals.
- Marketing: Partner locater, automation tools and marketing materials.
- Enablement: Training and certification through Acronis Academy, NFR program, and presales assistance from solutions engineers.
Members can also contact a Partner Care Specialist for unlimited technical and business support via email, chat, or a 24/7 phone line available in the partner’s language. Partners also have access to a newly redesigned Acronis Partner Portal, created to enable partners to address their unique needs, challenges and goals. The Acronis Partner Portal delivers to partners the tools and resources they need to succeed in a format that’s easy to use.
2025 Acronis Partner Kickoff
Existing and prospective partners can register for the 2025 Acronis Partner Kickoff, scheduled for February 13. This live, one-hour virtual session features the theme “Growth by design: The security opportunity,” and will offer expert insights, practical advice and a look at what’s coming from Acronis.
In this interactive online event, participants will hear from a panel of expert speakers and get a sneak peek into the exciting developments ahead for Acronis partners. Participants will also have a chance to ask a panel of Acronis experts questions throughout the event.
About Acronis
A Swiss company founded in Singapore in 2003, Acronis has 15 offices worldwide and employees in 50+ countries. Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud is available in 26 languages in 150 countries and is used by over 20,000 service providers to protect over 750,000 businesses.