Net at Work Taps Veteran to Lead AI-Powered ERP Push for SMBs

NEW YORK, NY – August 27, 2026 – In a move that underscores a significant strategic pivot toward intelligent, cloud-based business systems, technology advisor Net at Work has announced the appointment of industry veteran Paul Clayton as its new NetSuite Practice Director. The hire is more than a simple personnel update; it's a clear signal of the firm's ambition to deepen its expertise and accelerate growth in the increasingly competitive market for AI-driven Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solutions tailored for small and mid-size businesses (SMBs).

Clayton's arrival comes at a time when the very definition of ERP is being rewritten. Once seen as rigid systems of record, modern ERP platforms are evolving into dynamic, intelligent engines of business operations. For Net at Work, a company that has built its reputation on guiding SMBs through complex technological transformations since 1996, securing a leader with Clayton’s track record is a calculated move to solidify its position on the front lines of this evolution.

A Strategic Play to Deepen Expertise

Net at Work is already a formidable player in the NetSuite ecosystem, holding a coveted "5 Star NetSuite Partner" designation. The firm’s existing practice is known for a comprehensive, client-centric approach, offering services that span from initial implementation to ongoing optimization and even a specialized "NetSuite Rescue Practice" for recovering failed projects. This appointment is not about building from scratch, but about adding a powerful catalyst to an already-potent engine.

Paul Clayton brings over two decades of experience leading and scaling technology organizations. His resume includes senior roles such as Partner of Digital Services at Citrin Cooperman and Vice President of Consulting Services at FMT Consultants. Across these positions, he has overseen a portfolio of more than 1,000 customer ERP implementation projects and scaled a team to 60 people, demonstrating a rare ability to balance project velocity with quality and profitability. His expertise lies in aligning NetSuite's powerful technology with the financial and operational transformation goals of companies in manufacturing, wholesale distribution, and professional services—core sectors for the SMB economy.

"Paul brings an outstanding combination of leadership, business expertise, and a passion for client success," said Net at Work co-Founder and co-CEO Edward Solomon. He emphasized that Clayton's experience will directly "strengthen our ability to deliver measurable business outcomes" and reinforce the company's role as a trusted advisor.

Clayton himself pointed to the firm's culture as a key motivator. "What drew me to Net at Work was its unwavering commitment to a client-first culture," he stated. "The opportunity to help organizations derive even more value from their NetSuite investment while delivering measurable business outcomes is incredibly exciting."

Riding the Crest of the AI and Cloud Wave

This strategic hire is deeply rooted in the seismic shifts occurring within the ERP market. The era of clunky, on-premise servers is rapidly giving way to the cloud, with over 55% of SMBs now opting for cloud-based ERP solutions. The drivers are clear: lower upfront costs, enhanced scalability, and freedom from the burden of maintaining in-house IT infrastructure. Cloud platforms like NetSuite level the playing field, giving smaller companies access to the kind of sophisticated, integrated systems that were once the exclusive domain of large enterprises.

More profoundly, artificial intelligence is transforming these systems from passive data collectors into proactive business advisors. Recent market analysis shows that the primary value of ERP is shifting from data collection to data activation. AI-driven features are already boosting productivity by 78% and cutting operational costs by 62% for early adopters. With 65% of CIOs expecting full AI integration into their core systems by this year, the trend is undeniable.

Oracle NetSuite, with its cloud-native architecture and unified data model, is a leader in this transition. By embedding AI for intelligent automation, predictive analytics, and real-time insights directly into its platform, NetSuite offers the capabilities that modern businesses need to thrive. Clayton’s appointment places him and Net at Work at the confluence of these trends, tasked with translating this powerful technology into tangible competitive advantages for their clients.

The Battle for Talent in a High-Stakes Market

The move also highlights the fierce competition for specialized talent in the technology consulting industry. In a market crowded with competitors like SAP Business One and Microsoft Dynamics 365, the quality of implementation and advisory services is a critical differentiator. Expertise in a specific platform, especially one as comprehensive and rapidly evolving as NetSuite, is a scarce and highly valuable commodity. Securing a leader with a proven history of scaling successful NetSuite practices is a significant strategic victory for Net at Work.

Such hires are about more than just leadership; they are a magnet for both new clients and further talent. A director with Clayton’s reputation signals to the market that the firm is serious about excellence and innovation, attracting businesses looking for top-tier guidance on their digital transformation journeys. It simultaneously makes the company a more attractive destination for skilled consultants who want to work on complex, impactful projects under proven leadership.

Empowering the Modern SMB

For the small and mid-size businesses that form the backbone of the economy, this leadership enhancement translates into concrete benefits. With an expert like Clayton guiding the practice, Net at Work clients can expect more sophisticated, tailored implementations that maximize their return on investment in NetSuite. The focus on AI-driven solutions means businesses will be better equipped to leverage their own data for smarter inventory management, more accurate demand forecasting, and proactive decision-making.

Furthermore, as AI becomes more integrated into business operations, new challenges emerge. Recent industry research indicates that 81% of SMBs feel unprepared for AI-related cybersecurity threats, often lacking the necessary internal expertise. This is where trusted technology advisors become indispensable, not only implementing new systems but ensuring they are secure and resilient. By strengthening its NetSuite practice, Net at Work is positioning itself to provide that crucial guidance, helping clients navigate both the opportunities and the risks of the AI era. Clayton's role will be pivotal in ensuring the firm's clients can innovate and grow with the confidence needed to compete effectively in today's digital economy.