Introducing the Freshworks Champions Program 2025
The Freshworks Champions Program is built to recognize and empower our most passionate and innovative customers - amplifying their voices, celebrating their impact, and creating opportunities for deeper connection and collaboration.
Freshworks Champions will gain access to unique opportunities to share their story, connect with peers, amplify their voices in the industry and become trusted advocates for product innovation and collaboration.
Why become a Freshworks Champion?
By joining the Freshworks Champions program, you will set the gold standard for advocacy, collaboration and community at Freshworks. Influence the tools you believe in, connect with visionary peers, and leave your mark as a groundbreaker in your industry.
Champion circles
Access to thought leaders & mentorship
Personal brand elevation
Early access & influence
Priority event access
Exclusive recognition & rewards
How to become a Champion?
Start your journey toward becoming a Freshworks Champion by joining the Insiders Program—your first step to deeper engagement, exclusive insights, and industry recognition.
Eligibility criteria
To be considered for the Freshworks Champions Program, candidates should meet the following criteria:
Freshworks Experience: Hands-on expertise with Freshworks products, preferably 3+ years of active use.
Passion for Innovation: Bring a natural excitement for improving Freshworks products, finding innovative ways of working, and advancing your field.
Passion for Community & Networking: Demonstrate a strong commitment to sharing knowledge and supporting the Freshworks user community by mentoring other users.
Meet the Freshworks Champions
Class of 2025
Zwee Nelson
Applications Administrator, Allied Universal
Joey Russell
Vice President, IT Operations, AdaptHealth
Madeline Coluccio
Senior Manager, IT Engineering & Transformation, Embecta
Karen Decker
Regional IT Service Manager, Coherent
Adam Pocius
Executive Director, IT, Colorado State University Pueblo
Laurence Hendy
Head of Applications & Service Delivery, Benson for Beds
Markus Gaulke
Platform Manager - Service Desk, New Balance
Ibaidillah Othman
Senior Manager, Service Management Solutions
Brian Rosenberger
ITSM Process Manager, Old Republic Title
Geoff Compton
Head of IT Operations and Technical Services, Bega Cheese
Roger Crown
Vice President of Technology Operations, Marathon Health
Derick Jones
Senior IT Service Desk Manager, ChampionX
FAQs
What is the Freshworks Champions Program?
The Freshworks Champions Program represents an exclusive partnership, designed to recognize and empower the most passionate and innovative Freshworks customers. Together, Freshworks Champions will gain access to unique professional development opportunities, amplify their voices in the industry, and become trusted advocates for product innovation and collaboration.
Who can become a Freshworks Champion?
The program is open to Freshworks customers who are passionate about Freshworks products and actively contribute through advocacy, knowledge sharing, and community engagement.
To be considered for the Freshworks Champions Program, candidates should meet the following requirements:
Freshworks Experience: Hands-on expertise with Freshworks products, preferably 3+ years of active use.
Passion for Innovation: Bring a natural excitement for improving Freshworks products, finding innovative ways of working, and advancing your field.
Passion for Community Engagement: Demonstrate a strong commitment to sharing knowledge and supporting the Freshworks user community.
Advocacy and Networking: Show a history of sharing your Freshworks story and expertise through advocacy and networking (events, references, user groups, community discussions, etc).
What are the benefits of being a Freshworks Champion?
As a Founding Champion, accepted members will enjoy:
Quarterly Champions Circles – Networking sessions to exchange ideas and best practices
Early Access to New Features – Beta programs with direct feedback loops to product teams.
Professional Development – Access to thought leaders and mentorship
Personal Branding & Media Exposure – PR and media opportunities, executive exposure, and speaking slots.
VIP Access to Freshworks Events – Special invitations to Refresh, FUN events, and local meetups.
Champions Swag & Awards – Personalized rewards and recognitions throughout the year.
How can I apply to become a Freshworks Champion?
Individuals can apply directly through our website portal (link to be created).
You may also be nominated to apply by Freshworks team members. Freshworks teams can nominate those who have showcased their contributions and passion for Freshworks, prompting them to complete an application.
How will Champions be selected—what is the application review process?
Applications will be reviewed by a panel of Freshworks experts based on:
Experience with Freshworks products
Demonstrated passion for…
Innovation
Networking
Community engagement
Exchanging expertise and best practices
Career growth
The selection process will be finalized by April 21, 2025, after which no further applications will be accepted for this cycle. However, if you miss this opportunity, we’ll be reopening applications for the 2026 Freshworks Champions cohort. Stay tuned for updates!
Can I submit multiple applications?
Each customer is permitted one application per year. Customers not accepted are encouraged to re-apply the following year.
What are the expectations for Freshworks Champions?
While there is no strict time commitment, Freshworks Champions are expected to participate in the following activities as their schedules allow:
Reference Calls
Event speaking
Freshworks Community Discussions
Mentorship of other customers, sharing insights and best practices.
Product feedback
Customer Stories, Videos, Media/PR Highlights, or other testimonials (**if your internal policies allow).
Across all engagements, Freshworks Champions should:
Respond promptly when contacted about a tailored opportunity.
Maintain professional courtesy, kindness, and respect toward all program members and staff.
Clearly communicate any extended periods of inactivity due to personal or professional circumstances.
Consistent lack of engagement without communication may result in your seat being offered to another customer.
Is there a time commitment required?
There is no fixed time requirement. Champions should engage regularly as their schedule allows and communicate proactively regarding any prolonged periods of inactivity.
How long does the champion status last?
Champion status is reviewed annually, and active members who contribute meaningfully may be chosen to renew their status for subsequent years.
Please contact your Program POC with requests—they’ll assist you directly.
How do I maximize my experience as a Freshworks Champion?
To make the most of your Freshworks Champions status, we recommend the following guide for leveraging program benefits:
Bring Your All to Champions Circles—Share Ideas, Ask Questions, Lead Conversations Attend virtual and in-person quarterly meetups ready to share your experiences, gain fresh insights, and build meaningful connections with fellow Champions. Prepare to engage actively and learn from your peers and Freshworks experts.
Be First To Test Beta Features—Influence the Freshworks Roadmap Be among the first to experience upcoming Freshworks features. Test, provide feedback, and directly influence the evolution of our products, enhancing your own expertise and shaping the Freshworks ecosystem.
Build Your Personal Brand—Speak, Publish, and Share Your Success Share your Champions status on LinkedIn, showcase your achievements, and highlight speaking engagements. Elevate your profile and establish yourself as a respected thought leader in your industry.
Attend Events—Meet Leaders, Expand Your Network Get exclusive access to Freshworks events—such as Refresh—including special lounge seating, networking perks, and opportunities for unforgettable “aha” moments alongside peers and industry leaders.
Respond to Champions Updates—Claim Personalized Opportunities Quickly Keep an eye out for exciting new opportunities from your Champions program contacts. Respond promptly, communicate openly about your preferences, and help us match you with activities that genuinely interest and benefit you. Don’t hesitate to reach out—we want to hear from you!
Engage —Ask Questions, Offer Insights, Connect Stay connected with fellow Champions and Freshworks leadership. Ask questions, offer support, exchange insights.
Help Us Make It Personal—Complete Surveys, Tell Us Your Preferences
Your feedback helps us continuously tailor the Champions experience to your personal preferences, making every interaction meaningful and unique to you.
Where can I learn more or get support?
For more details, visit the Freshworks Champions Program portal or reach out to the program team.
Program POCs
Freshservice Champions: Lilly Corsi (lilly.corsi@freshworks.com)
Freshdesk Champions: Sunanda Srinivas (sunanda.srinivas@freshworks.com)
Sponsors
Customer Engagement Manager: Arvind Ramamurti (arvind.ramamurti@freshworks.com)
Customer Engagement Director: Annapoorna Venketaraman (annapoorna.venketaraman@freshworks.com)
VP of Customer Engagement: Kevin Lau (kevin.lau@freshworks.com)