AXEL NEWE
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Work History.

Director - Go-To-Market Lead & Digital Experience Partnerships
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SoftServe, Inc.
​
May 2022 - Dec 2024  | Albuquerque-Santa Fe Metropolitan Area

As Director of Digital Experience Partnerships & Alliances at SoftServe, I spearheaded strategic partnerships and drove digital transformation across the Healthcare and Life Sciences sectors. Leveraging my expertise in alliances with platforms like Salesforce, Pegasystems, Sitecore, Mendix, and AWS, I focused on creating impactful collaborations that fueled innovation and growth.

My leadership highlights include the strategic expansion of the Sitecore partnership, aligning SoftServe’s offerings with Sitecore’s global strategy, and achieving $7M in alliance-influenced revenue within a year. By fostering synergies between sales, technical teams, and executive leadership, I enabled operational excellence and positioned SoftServe as a trusted partner in digital transformation. Additionally, I led the development of a Sitecore-based HIPAA compliance solution, managing a cross-functional team across engineering, industry consulting, marketing, and legal to bring a market-ready, regulatory-driven product to life. This initiative enhanced Sitecore’s appeal in healthcare and strengthened SoftServe’s ISV and GTM strategy.

I thrive at the intersection of strategy and execution, enhancing portfolio value, driving co-sales success, and aligning stakeholders to deliver measurable outcomes. My approach combines market insight, deep digital expertise, and a results-driven mindset to create value for partners and clients.
Salesforce Go-To-Market Leader for Healthcare
NTT DATA Services

Nov 2020 - Apr 2022 | Greater Sacramento Metropolitan Area

As Salesforce Go-To-Market Leader for Healthcare at NTT Data, I drove innovative digital solutions and transformative growth within the healthcare and life sciences sectors. I led pre-sales architecture and industry consulting teams, crafting industry-relevant prototypes and fostering solutions that streamlined sales processes and improved opportunity closure rates.

A key focus of my role was managing account-specific alliance activities and collaborating with Salesforce and MuleSoft to deliver integrated, client-centric solutions. Through the Healthcare Digital Front Door initiative, I provided subject-matter expertise in Digital Experience (DXP) best practices, enhancing patient engagement and operational efficiency. This involved aligning enterprise tools like Salesforce and MuleSoft with industry needs for seamless adoption and integration.

I also strengthened NTT Data’s market presence by fostering strategic co-sell opportunities and building trusted relationships with partners and clients. The organization achieved significant business growth through my leadership, solidifying its reputation as an innovator and trusted partner in healthcare and life sciences.
Service Line Lead & Business Partner - Salesforce
Cognizant Technology Solutions
Jun 2018 - Nov 2020 | Greater Sacramento Metropolitan Area

As Service Line Lead and Business Partner at Cognizant, I drove digital transformation initiatives in healthcare and life sciences, managing a $25M Salesforce and MuleSoft portfolio. I led matrixed pursuit teams of sales, pre-sales, technical experts, and account leaders, crafting tailored solutions that addressed complex client challenges and delivered measurable value.

I spearheaded the development of innovative solutions, including population health-focused offerings that supported healthcare organizations and local governments during the COVID-19 pandemic. Collaborating with vendor partners, I ensured seamless alignment to accelerate business outcomes and enhance customer experiences. Additionally, I led the development and launch of a healthcare-focused sales portal for health insurance companies on Salesforce AppExchange, overseeing a cross-functional team of consultants, developers, and marketing experts. This ISV initiative helped payer organizations streamline engagement and sales processes, reinforcing Cognizant’s role as a service provider and a product innovator.

In my dual roles, I also focused on Go-To-Market strategies and vendor management, aligning organizational capabilities with client objectives. I consistently delivered high-impact results by fostering trusted stakeholder relationships and optimizing processes. My leadership enabled successful execution across diverse teams, reinforcing Cognizant’s position as a trusted partner in digital transformation.
Program Director
Cognizant Technology Solutions
​Dec 2015 - Feb 2020 | Greater Sacramento Metropolitan Area

As Program Director at Cognizant, I led large-scale, cross-functional initiatives that delivered transformative results for healthcare and life sciences clients. Managing teams of up to 50 onshore and offshore resources, I oversaw the end-to-end lifecycle of complex projects, from analysis and design to implementation and long-term support.

One of my key achievements was developing an innovative Salesforce-to-TriZetto Facets integration adapter, significantly enhancing healthcare administrative efficiency. I also drove the implementation of corporate and business unit-level dashboards as part of a major sales transformation initiative, enabling actionable insights and improved decision-making.

My role included managing account-specific vendor relationships, ensuring alignment with partner standards, and preserving key contract values. By fostering strong stakeholder collaboration and proactively resolving risks, I ensured the on-time delivery of high-quality solutions that met and exceeded client expectations.

Additionally, I spearheaded the transition of a global energy-sector manufacturer to agile and DevOps methodologies, implementing processes like user story development, code branching, and release automation, which streamlined operations and enhanced efficiency while developing in the Salesforce ecosystem.

This role highlights my expertise in program management, digital transformation, and operational optimization, enabling sustainable client growth and fostering long-term relationships.
North American Salesforce Solution/Practice Leader
HCLTech
​Mar 2014 - Jul 2015 | Greater Sacramento Metropolitan Area

As North American Salesforce Solution/Practice Leader at HCLTech (Axon), I revitalized and expanded the company’s Salesforce practice, focusing on driving growth in the manufacturing and high-tech sectors. Leading a team of 13 resources across pre-sales, sales, architecture, and business analysis, I delivered tailored solutions aligned with client objectives and evolving industry trends.

I spearheaded practice leadership, revenue management, and partner engagement, resulting in $6.2 million in bookings during FY15. Managing key accounts such as Tyco, EMC/RSA, Tibco, and Cummins, I ensured seamless collaboration between onshore and offshore teams to deliver impactful, industry-focused solutions.

I positioned HCLTech as a trusted advisor within the Salesforce ecosystem by emphasizing innovation and thought leadership in platform and cloud adoption. My efforts drove significant revenue growth, enhanced client value, and differentiated the organization in competitive markets.
Director of Operations, Salesforce Practice
Perficient, Inc.
​Mar 2013 - Feb 2014 | San Francisco, CA

​As Director of Operations for Perficient’s Salesforce Practice, I helped build the practice from the ground up, driving growth through strategic acquisitions and targeted hiring. Collaborating with Perficient’s recruiting teams, I preserved critical roles during acquisitions and aligned new hires with business needs. I established a robust team of 100+ professionals, including architects, developers, sales executives, and business analysts.

I led the seamless integration of two acquired Salesforce practices, aligning their operations with corporate standards and Salesforce partnership requirements, including certifications, delivery quality, and performance metrics. I enhanced operational efficiency, improved project delivery timelines, and strengthened client trust by refining program management procedures and introducing streamlined client issue management processes.

In addition to operational leadership, I played a pivotal role in business development, targeting enterprise clients and expanding the practice’s market presence. I prioritized certification programs to maintain partner alignment, ensuring Perficient’s competitive edge within the Salesforce ecosystem.
Practice Leader
Cognizant Technology Solutions
​Jul 2011 - Mar 2013 | Greater Sacramento Metropolitan Area

As a Practice Leader at Cognizant, I drove the growth and operational excellence of the Salesforce and Veeva practices, focusing on the Western United States. I directly managed a team of 13 resources, including architects, developers, and business analysts, while collaborating with offshore Centers of Excellence (CoEs) to support pursuit and delivery efforts.

I led Salesforce-specific pursuit activities, from initial strategy to project handoff, ensuring tailored solutions aligned with client objectives. By fostering collaboration with the high-tech and healthcare practices account managers, I enhanced client engagements and streamlined delivery processes.

Through effective resource coordination, delivery quality improvements, and strategic leadership, I solidified Cognizant’s reputation as a trusted partner for Salesforce solutions in key markets. My efforts drove measurable growth, client satisfaction, and a foundation for long-term success in the High-Tech and Healthcare sectors.
Vice President of Operations & General Manager, Western Region
Recyclebank Rewards
​May 2008 - May 2011 | Greater Sacramento Metropolitan Area

As Vice President of Operations & General Manager for Recyclebank’s Western Region, I led the expansion of an innovative recycling incentive program to 18 significant communities, including Los Angeles, Phoenix, and Albuquerque. I managed a team of seven direct reports across business development, operations, and sales, delivering tailored solutions aligned with municipal priorities and corporate sustainability goals.

I collaborated with waste service providers like Republic Services and Waste Management to adapt existing infrastructure for seamless program implementation. At the corporate level, I led the adoption of Salesforce Sales and Service Cloud, streamlining sales tracking and support processes.

Recognizing the importance of community engagement, I spearheaded initiatives to employ at-risk youth as brand ambassadors, fostering recycling awareness and empowering local communities. By driving operational excellence and cross-functional collaboration, I strengthened Recyclebank’s partnerships, improved program adoption, and delivered measurable benefits to municipalities, partners, and residents.
Senior Manager, Customer Practice
Deloitte Consulting
​Sep 2001 - May 2008 | ​Greater Sacramento Metropolitan Area

As a Senior Manager in Deloitte’s Customer Practice, I led large-scale consulting engagements in the Healthcare and Life Sciences sectors, focusing on process and technology transformation. Managing teams of up to 100 resources, I delivered complex technology and business process initiatives aligned with strategic business objectives, driving measurable efficiency gains and client success.

I also contributed to business development by crafting proposals and RFI responses for enterprise platforms, including Trizetto Facets, Siebel Systems, Salesforce, and Oracle OBIEE. As a Siebel Solution Architect, I designed and implemented tailored sales and service solutions for notable clients such as Sara Lee, Capital BlueCross, WellPoint, and McKesson.

A key part of my role included mentoring and developing 3–8 direct reports, overseeing performance reviews, growth plans, and technical up-skilling to ensure their success. By fostering cross-functional collaboration and applying program management best practices, I delivered projects on time, on budget, and to the highest quality standards, solidifying Deloitte’s reputation as a trusted advisor for enterprise transformation.
Senior Project Manager
Akamai Technologies
Nov 2000 - Sep 2001 | Cambridge, MA

As Senior Project Manager at Akamai Technologies, I led the development and support of internal-facing Siebel Systems platforms, associated Oracle databases, and third-party data sources. Managing a team of 24 technical resources, I oversaw the entire software development lifecycle (SDLC), from requirements gathering through design, build, testing, and deployment, ensuring long-term operational support and system resilience.

A key achievement was architecting and leading the development of a global asset management system to track hundreds of thousands of servers. This system streamlined operational processes like racking, software installation, and decommissioning while incorporating anti-theft measures. It significantly enhanced Akamai’s operational efficiency and asset security.

In addition to technical leadership, I implemented training programs to improve system awareness and team adherence to development standards. I facilitated cross-training on Unix systems to deepen team expertise and support Akamai’s technical ecosystem. I also managed 24/7 support infrastructure for applications and servers critical to operations, ensuring business continuity.

By blending hands-on technical expertise with strategic leadership, I contributed to Akamai’s success as a web acceleration and data security pioneer.
CRM Manager
Deloitte Consulting
Oct 1999 - Oct 2000 | Boston, MA

As a Manager in Deloitte’s Customer Relationship Management practice, I delivered transformative solutions for Fortune 500 financial services and healthcare clients. I focused on Siebel Systems and related Oracle databases. I specialized in designing and implementing scalable CRM architectures that optimized customer interaction processes across sales and service channels.

I led end-to-end project lifecycles, from requirements gathering to post-implementation support, ensuring alignment with enterprise goals and industry best practices. Notable engagements included designing customized solutions for clients like Cigna, MassMutual, and Goldman Sachs and collaborating with vendor partners to achieve strategic objectives.

In addition to technical contributions, I supervised teams of up to 15 developers and business analysts, mentoring three direct reports to support career growth and technical proficiency. My ability to foster collaboration across clients, partners, and internal teams enabled the successful delivery of complex CRM initiatives, driving operational efficiency and enhancing customer experiences.
CRM Consultant
Andersen Consulting (Accenture)
May 1997 - Oct 1999 | San Mateo, CA

As a Consultant in Andersen Consulting’s Customer Relationship Management practice, I transitioned from military service to an early expert in CRM technologies, focusing on Siebel Systems and Oracle databases. My work primarily targeted the Consumer-Packaged Goods and Telecommunications sectors, delivering transformative solutions for high-profile clients such as Kellogg, Bell Canada, and Cable and Wireless PLC.

Notable achievements include co-developing Siebel’s first Product Configurator for Telecom, which streamlined complex telecom offerings years before its official release, and contributing to developing the Consumer Packaged Goods Vertical, now a hallmark of Siebel’s product portfolio. I also led teams of up to 15 analysts and developers, managing entire project lifecycles from requirements gathering to deployment and support.

This role underscored my ability to adapt quickly, master emerging technologies, and drive innovation, establishing a foundation for long-term success in delivering impactful, client-focused CRM solutions.
Naval Officer, Surface Line
United States Navy
Dec 1991 - Apr 1997 | San Diego, CA

As an officer in the United States Navy, I honed my leadership, operational, and technical expertise through diverse assignments aboard the USS Merrimack (AO 179) and USS Benfold (DDG 65).

On the USS Merrimack, I held key roles including Electrical Officer, Assistant Engineer, and Assistant Operations Officer, where I managed critical systems, led engineering teams, and coordinated mission readiness operations. For my contributions during the Red Sea merchant vessel boardings post-Gulf War, I was awarded the Navy Achievement Medal. I also earned qualifications as an Engineering Officer of the Watch, Fleet Officer of the Deck, and Surface Warfare Officer, achieving my gold Surface Warfare Officer pin.

Aboard the newly constructed USS Benfold, I served as Navigator, leading crew training, combat sea trials, and operational certifications to prepare the ship and its systems for readiness. I managed my department's post-build shipyard availability to ensure the vessel’s operational excellence and mission readiness.

These experiences highlight my ability to lead complex operations, manage diverse teams, and maintain mission-critical focus under pressure—foundational skills that continue to guide my professional success.
Sergeant, Field Artillery
United States Army
Aug 1984 - May 1988 | Fort Johnson (formerly Fort Polk), Central Louisiana

As a Sergeant and Fire Direction Specialist in the U.S. Army, I developed expertise in precision computations for artillery targeting. This work required a strong foundation in trigonometry, ballistics, physics, and navigation. As a leader of six Fire Direction Specialists, I ensured mission readiness and operational accuracy in high-pressure environments.

In addition to my core responsibilities, I managed the maintenance and electronic repairs of critical fire control radio and computing equipment and oversaw the upkeep of my section's armored vehicle. Within two years of graduating from basic and advanced training, I was rapidly promoted to non-commissioned officer, where I demonstrated strong leadership skills, mentoring my team and maintaining excellence under demanding conditions.

These experiences shaped my technical problem-solving abilities, disciplined leadership style, and commitment to operational precision, which have guided my professional success.
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  • Home
  • About Me
  • Work History
  • My Portfolio
    • Civic Engagement
    • Professional Thought Leadership
    • Trainings, Learnings, and Certifications
  • My Blog
  • Photo Album
  • Links and Affiliations
  • Contact