Zones' Kiel Hillier Named to the Systems Contractor News 2026 Class of The Nine
Auburn, WA – May 7, 2026 – Zones, a global technology solutions and services company that helps organizations solve complex IT challenges, today announced that Kiel Hillier, Director of Global Marketing, has earned a coveted spot on the highly anticipated Systems Contractor News (SCN) 2026 list of The Nine.
Widely regarded as one of the Pro AV industry's most exciting accolades, SCN's The Nine calls out young professionals who are shaping the future of AV through leadership and vision. According to the writers at SCN, "Every year, the editorial team celebrates some of our industry's younger contributors. This year's collection of overachievers is no different. No matter their niche, all of them are staying on course to improve Pro AV."
In his interview with SCN, Hillier reflected on his more than two-decade career spanning distribution, integration, and vendor roles that began at age 17. In his current position as Director of Global Marketing at Zones, he supports channel development initiatives, including expansion across EMEA, while also contributing to global engagement through social media, video content, and customer messaging.
Offering advice to the next generation of Pro AV professionals, Hillier emphasized the importance of mentorship. "Find a good mentor. When I first started, there were people around me who genuinely wanted me to succeed. I wouldn't be where I am today without that support. Personal ambition can take you so far, but when there are barriers at every step, it's easy to lose momentum. Find someone who will go to bat for you, someone who wants to see you succeed."
"Kiel's recognition on SCN's The Nine is a reflection of both his leadership and his understanding of the Pro AV landscape," said Ashley Flaska, Vice President of Marketing at Zones. "He brings a unique ability to connect strategy with execution by building programs that elevate our brand and strengthen our relationships across the channel. Kiel's passion for the industry and commitment to mentorship make him an invaluable part of our team and a deserving honoree."
"It's an honor to be recognized by Systems Contractor News alongside so many talented professionals who are helping shape the future of Pro AV," said Kiel Hillier, Director of Global Marketing at Zones. "This industry has given me incredible opportunities to learn, grow, and collaborate. I'm grateful to be part of the Pro AV community and look forward to contributing to its evolution."
As Director of Global Marketing at Zones, Hillier oversees global video, content and storytelling initiatives while driving regional marketing execution across EMEA and Canada. He's also responsible for Partner and Product Management (PPM) in these regions, ensuring global direction is translated into locally relevant programs that support pipeline growth and long-term commercial success. Prior to Zones, Hillier held sales, business development and marketing roles at ViewSonic, Northamber, Exertis and Stampede Presentation Products
About Zones Zones is a global technology solutions and services company that helps organizations solve complex IT challenges. With 35+ years of experience and operations in more than 150 countries, Zones delivers end-to-end IT lifecycle services across cloud and data center, digital workplace, networking, and security. Powered by the highest partner certifications with Microsoft, Apple, Cisco, Lenovo, Adobe, and more, Zones has mastered the science of building and sustaining digital infrastructures that transform how modern organizations do business.
Lead with Zones: Visit Zones Innovation Center, zones.com, blog.zones or follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
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Media Contact: Traci Schaefer TLS Communications, Inc. 630-269-4567 tschaefer@tlscommunications.com