This is the third consecutive year Clinton has been named to this prestigious list
ATLANTA, GA, — August 13, 2026 — Sovos, the AI-ready tax compliance company, announced that CRN®, a brand of The Channel Company, has named Chris Clinton, Chief Partner Officer, as an Inclusive Channel Leader for 2026. This CRN recognition spotlights vendor, distributor, and solution provider executives helping to create greater equity across the IT channel.
Each of the honorees is dedicated to fostering equity and inclusion within their organizations, the IT channel, and the entire industry. With this list, CRN highlights the importance of championing and building diversity and belonging in the channel ecosystem.
In his role as Chief Partner Officer at Sovos, Clinton drives the company’s global partner strategy with a focus on unlocking new growth opportunities and deepening existing relationships. Known for leading with empathy and transparency, he creates space for every team member to contribute and advance. Drawing on more than 25 years of channel experience, Chris oversees a diverse partner ecosystem spanning the Big 4, global and regional system integrators, ISVs, solution providers, MSPs, embedded partners, and distribution, bringing the same inclusive approach to every relationship he builds.
“This recognition is a reflection of the people on our team, not me. When you build an environment where every voice carries weight, where people feel safe to challenge, contribute, and grow into leaders themselves, that’s when you see real innovation happen,” said Clinton. “The channel is evolving fast, and the teams that will navigate it best are the ones where everyone has a seat at the table. That’s the culture we’re committed to building at Sovos, and I’m proud of the people who make it real every day.”
“This year’s Inclusive Channel Leaders honorees set a powerful standard for the industry,” said Jennifer Follett, VP, U.S. Content, Executive Editor, CRN, The Channel Company. “By elevating diverse voices and cultivating inclusive cultures, they are driving meaningful progress across their organizations and the channel as a whole. We’re inspired by their leadership and applaud their commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive IT ecosystem.”
The 2026 Inclusive Channel Leaders list is featured online at CRN.com and will be featured in the August issue of CRN Magazine.
About Sovos
Sovos is transforming tax compliance from a business requirement to a force for growth. Our flagship product, the Sovos Tax Compliance Cloud, enables businesses to identify, determine, and report on every tax obligation across the globe. Sovos processes more than 70 billion transactions per year, helping companies scale their compliance strategy in 150+ countries. More than 100,000 customers — including half the Fortune 500 — trust Sovos’ tax and regulatory expertise and unparalleled integration with their business applications. Learn more at sovos.com.
About The Channel Company
The Channel Company (TCC) is the global leader in channel growth for the world’s top technology brands. We accelerate success across strategic channels for tech vendors, solution providers, and end users with premier media brands, integrated marketing and event services, strategic consulting, and exclusive market and audience insights. TCC is a portfolio company of investment funds managed by EagleTree Capital, a New York City-based private equity firm. For more information, visit thechannelco.com.
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