Align's Vinod Paul Named Technology Leader of the Year in 2026 FTF News Technology Innovation Awards

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Align, the premier global provider of technology infrastructure solutions and Managed IT Services, today announced that Vinod Paul, President of Align Managed Services, has been named Technology Leader of the Year in the 2026 FTF News Technology Innovation Awards. The recognition marks the second major industry honor for Paul in less than a year, following his receipt of the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 MSP 501 Gala Dinner hosted by Channel Futures — one of the highest honors in the managed services industry.

The FTF News Technology Innovation Awards recognize the leaders, innovators, and organizations advancing operational excellence across the financial services industry. This specific award honors an executive who has demonstrated vision and leadership in developing technology solutions that help shape the future of capital markets.

Align Managed Services delivers technology, cybersecurity, cloud, artificial intelligence, and advisory solutions tailored to the needs of financial services firms. With a specialized focus on the alternative financial services investment industry, Align serves hedge funds, private equity firms, and digital asset managers navigating increasingly complex operational, cybersecurity, and regulatory challenges with clients now spanning 24 states and 21 countries.

As President, Paul has guided Align through a pivotal era of platform evolution, embedding artificial intelligence across the firm's Managed Services offerings at a moment when the alternative investment industry is actively grappling with how to harness AI responsibly and securely. Under his leadership, Align has expanded its cybersecurity, cloud, compliance, and advisory capabilities into an integrated platform built for the demands of modern investment operations. Central to that platform is Align Cybersecurity™, the firm's comprehensive risk management solution, and a growing suite of AI-driven capabilities that help clients automate workflows, strengthen threat detection, and meet increasingly sophisticated regulatory expectations. For the alternative financial services industry facing rising operational complexity, Align Managed Services’ platform represents both a security posture and a competitive differentiator.

“Vinod’s recognition as the 'Technology Leader of the Year' reflects the impact he delivers every day both for our clients and Align,” said Jim Dooling, CEO of Align. “He has a clear vision of where the industry is headed and he consistently turns that insight into real, scalable solutions. His leadership has been a key driver of the growth and strength of our Managed Services business. This award speaks volumes not just to Vinod, but to the platform and the incredible team culture for passion and innovation he has built.”

Paul’s recognition reflects a sustained record of industry distinction. In addition to the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award, he has been named to Channel Futures’ Most Influential MSP Leaders list and serves on the advisory boards of cybersecurity firms Adlumin and Cavelo. He is a frequent contributor to industry publications including Forbes Technology Council and Hedgeweek, and a recurring speaker at leading alternative investment and technology conferences. With more than 30 years of experience in financial services technology, Paul is widely regarded as one of the sector’s foremost managed services leaders.

"This recognition from FTF News means a great deal, and I’m proud to share it with the entire Align team. What we’ve built here is unique, a deep technical expertise combined with a genuine understanding of how the alternative investment firms operate. That combination allows us to deliver solutions our clients can truly depend on, and earning their trust every day is what drives us," said Vinod Paul, President, Align Managed Services.

"There's no denying this industry is hard. It's competitive. It can be unforgiving. Nothing is ever given. Everything is earned through a lot of hard work, perseverance, and dedication. Which is why being voted the best service or solution by the very industry you serve is so incredibly rewarding," said Maureen Lowe, founder and editor-in-chief of FTF News.

"Every year, the FTF team puts on an awards celebration that matches what the winners deserve, and this year is no different. We're not just recognizing our 2026 FTF Award winners, we're also celebrating 20 years of FTF and 15 years of the Awards program," Lowe added.

This latest recognition follows a series of industry awards for Align Managed Services, including Cyber Security Solution of the Year in the 2026 Hedgeweek Global Digital Assets Awards.

Align was honored at the FTF News awards ceremony in New York City on June 16, 2026.

About Align

Align is a premier global provider of technology infrastructure solutions. For over 37 years, leading firms worldwide have relied on Align to guide them through IT challenges, delivering complete, secure solutions for business change and growth. Align is headquartered in Dallas, Texas and has offices in New York City, London, Virginia, Arizona, New Jersey, Chicago, San Francisco, Salt Lake City & Portland. Learn more at www.align.com.