Compugen’s mantra is human-centered, technology-enabled. In our ongoing Dream Team Profiles series, we shine a spotlight on the remarkable individuals within our organization. Today, we're thrilled to introduce you to Joe Simms, our Senior Sales Director overseeing the West + Central Public Sector.
Based in Ontario, Joe brings over three decades of industry experience and an unwavering commitment to excellence to his role.
Early Beginnings + Career Trajectory 
Joe's journey in the world of technology began over 35 years ago, marked by a relentless pursuit of growth and innovation. Starting at a value-added reseller called Crowntek, he embarked on a path that would see him excel in leadership positions at GE Capital ITS, HP, and eventually finding his home at Compugen 12 years ago. His tenure has been characterized by a steadfast dedication to serving customers with integrity and passion.
Driving Meaningful Outcomes
For Joe, success isn't just about closing deals; it's about making a tangible difference in the lives of others. Leading the Public Sector team, he finds immense fulfillment in collaborating with passionate customers dedicated to serving their communities. Whether empowering student achievement, driving better patient outcomes, or modernizing smart cities, Joe's role allows him to creatively leverage technology for positive change.
“It’s incredibly motivating working with our Education, Healthcare and Government customers and helping them achieve meaningful outcomes,” says Joe. “Empowering student achievement and security, driving better patient outcomes and saving lives, enabling smart cities to better serve constituents are examples of using technology to make a real difference in people's lives.”
A Commitment to Collaboration
Beyond professional accomplishments, Joe finds fulfillment in the people he works with. At Compugen, he's surrounded by individuals who embody the company's core values.
“Compugen people really live our values,” says Joe. “Driven to Make a Difference, Relentlessly Curious and Collaborative at the Core, and this remains true whether are working with customer, partners or internal teams.”
Excitement for the Future
Looking ahead to 2024, Joe is filled with enthusiasm for the opportunities that lie ahead. As Canada's Technology Ally, Compugen is poised for continued growth and success, fueled by unrivaled national presence, investments in talent and resources, and strategic partnerships.
Joe's recent transition to oversee the West + Central Public Sector region presents new challenges and opportunities for collaboration, further solidifying Compugen's position as a leader in the industry.
“We are very well positioned to continue our path of growth and success,” says Joe. “And I’m excited, in this new role, to continue learning about and understanding the West Public Sector region.”
Balancing Work + Passion
Outside of his professional endeavours, Joe finds joy in an array of hobbies and interests. An avid golfer and hockey player — Joe is a Toronto Maple Leafs, though barely old enough to recall their last Stanley Cup win — he values staying active and spending quality time with his family.
Whether cooking up a storm in the kitchen or embarking on adventures together with his wife Paula of 30 years and their two kids Shelby and Liam, Joe prioritizes maintaining a healthy work-life balance that rejuvenates both body and mind.
Compugen also happens to run in the family. Shelby and Liam have spent time as Compugen employees.
A Glimpse into Curiosity
If given the chance to switch roles for a day, Joe's curiosity leads him to envision stepping into the shoes of Compugen President Harry Zarek.
“A view through his (Harry’s) eyes of the overall business, as well as insight into what feeds his passion to continue leading and growing Compugen after so many years of success would be inspiring,” explains Joe.
And if Joe could possess any superpower to excel in his role, he would choose the ability to stop time. In a fast-paced industry where demands are ever-evolving, the power to pause and reflect would enable Joe to navigate his responsibilities with thoughtfulness and purpose, ensuring that every interaction and decision is intentional and made with care.
Dream, Design, Deliver
In his new role as Senior Sales Director, West + Central Public Sector, Joe Simms embodies the spirit of Dream, Design, Deliver, weaving together innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to making a meaningful difference. With his leadership, Compugen continues to pave the way for transformative technology solutions that shape a brighter future for communities across Canada.
Explore Our Dream Team
If you enjoyed learning about Joe's story, we invite you to dive into our past Dream Team profiles featuring another remarkable individual within our organization.
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