Introduction
Hi there, Dez here! I recently had the pleasure of attending Share 2019 in Pittsburgh, America. During the event, I had the opportunity to sit down with Greg Lotko, the Senior Vice President and General Manager of the mainframe division at Broadcom. Our conversation covered a wide range of topics, from the strategic focus on modernizing the mainframe platform to the value of networking and learning from industry peers at events like Share. In this blog post, I’ll be sharing some key insights from our conversation and the overall experience at Share 2019.
Embracing a Unique Philosophy at Broadcom
- Greg Lotko shared insights into the unique approach that Broadcom takes in organising and running their mainframe business.
- Unlike other companies, Broadcom runs their divisions like franchises, allowing each business to thrive and survive on its own.
- The focus is on helping the mainframe divisions be successful, with all resources and teams dedicated to supporting the mainframe business.
The Energy and Enthusiasm at Share 2019
- Greg highlighted the energy and enthusiasm at Share 2019, emphasising the deep education and sharing of practical experiences in the mainframe space.
- He also noted the presence of younger individuals and new hires, bringing fresh perspectives and ideas to the mainframe industry.
Strategic Focus on Modernisation and Security
- The conversation delved into the strategic focus on modernising the mainframe platform, optimising operations, and enhancing security.
- Broadcom’s approach is centered around open, flexible, and optimised solutions, allowing for interaction with other technologies while preserving the value of the mainframe.
Engaging the Next Generation
- An interesting point was raised about the next generation of developers and systems personnel viewing the mainframe as just another set of APIs, leading to a shift in perspective and approach.
- The conversation also touched on the importance of encouraging and supporting the next generation in making the mainframe their own and contributing fresh ideas and skills to the industry.
Women in IT Breakfast and Mentorship
- Greg shared his experience at the women in IT breakfast, highlighting the inspiring conversations and the opportunity to connect with other women in business.
- The focus on mentorship and supporting the next generation was evident, with discussions around career paths and advancement in the IT industry.
The Future of Broadcom and the Mainframe Industry
- Looking ahead, Greg emphasised the importance of maintaining a constant focus on helping customers be successful and driving greater value to them.
- The overarching goal is to continue investing in mainframe operational intelligence, analytics, and innovation while keeping customer success at the forefront.
Conclusion
In conclusion, my conversation with Greg Lotko provided valuable insights into the strategic focus of Broadcom in the mainframe industry, the energy and enthusiasm at Share 2019, and the importance of engaging and supporting the next generation of talent. As the mainframe industry continues to evolve, it’s clear that a customer-centric approach and a commitment to driving value will be key to success in the years to come.
Thank you for reading and stay tuned for more insights and updates from the mainframe industry!




