Tell us your story — who you are, what drives you, and how your journey brought you to where you are today.

I’m Angel Salazar, born in Guatemala, and my interest in technology began back in school when I studied electronics. I still remember the thrill of building my first circuit — and realizing that technology could be used both for good and for harm. That hands-on curiosity eventually grew into a deep passion for cyber security, where I’ve now spent more than 25 years. Along the way, I’ve taken on many roles — from engineer and security auditor to channel manager and even country manager — each one teaching me new lessons and giving me a well-rounded view of the industry.

What drives me is seeing firsthand how cyber security empowers businesses to innovate fearlessly. I’ll never forget working with a pharmaceutical company where, through Check Point’s VPN technology, we enabled secure, real-time access to their inventory. This not only streamlined their logistics but also ensured life-saving medicine reached patients faster. Moments like that remind me every day that cyber security is more than protection — it’s an enabler of progress, innovation, and even saving lives.

What first sparked your interest in joining Check Point?

I always admired Check Point as the company that invented the firewall and shaped the path of modern cyber security. When I first joined in 2012, it was with the conviction that I would be part of a pioneering team committed to proactively preventing threats. What continues to inspire me today is Check Point’s focus on innovation, education, and being a true partner to customers. Those values align deeply with my own.

Walk us through a day in your role.

As Channel Engineering Manager for Latin America, my days are a mix of strategy and execution. Coordinating activities from Mexico to Argentina isn’t always simple — but with the right team, even the complex feels manageable. For us, having clear objectives is what makes the difference, because it allows us to truly add value to the ecosystem. I work closely with partners and resellers to help them see Check Point’s portfolio not just as technology, but as a platform that drives business and provides complete protection. With my team, we focus on direction, motivation, and guidance, supporting partners in their growth and helping customers strengthen their security posture. What excites me most is seeing how our combined efforts turn into greater trust and better opportunities for everyone.

Looking back so far, what achievements make you feel most proud — both in your career and in your life outside of work?

I’m proud of contributing to the partner ecosystem not only with technical knowledge, but also with perspective and judgment to help build a safer digital world. I often participate in interviews and press articles to raise awareness about cyber risks, because I believe education is key and this is my way of giving back.

Outside of work, what fulfills me most is my family. With my sons, Paulo and Martín, I love sharing my passion for music and the joy of always learning something new. With my wife, I find happiness in exploring life together and discovering new cultures in meaningful ways. These moments with them give me balance, joy, and the inspiration to bring my best self to work every day.

When you’re not protecting the digital world, how do you like to recharge?

Music is my biggest source of energy. I enjoy playing Latin instruments and letting the rhythms connect me to my roots. What I love about music is how different worlds come together: each instrument, each note finds its place, even in spaces that seemed already filled, and with the right timing they complement each other perfectly. It reminds me of teamwork — where diverse voices, ideas, and skills can create harmony when aligned. I’m also passionate about storytelling, and I like to think of myself as a translator: someone who can take something as complex as cyber security and make it accessible and engaging. Much like Carl Sagan did with science, I try to bring clarity and simplicity so that everyone can understand and benefit from it.

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