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Account Executive, Central

Critical Start, Houston, TX, United States


Who We Are Ready to make a real impact in cybersecurity? At Critical Start, we're not just protecting organizations; we're redefining how it's done. We're a team united by an inspiring purpose: to stop breaches, simplify security, and shape the future of cyber defense. If you're passionate about cutting‑edge technology, thrive in a collaborative environment, and want your work to truly matter, you've found your home. We deliver 24x7 AI‑accelerated, human‑validated detection, investigation, and response across IT and OT. Since 2012, we've helped organizations outpace evolving attacks with faster response, fewer escalations, and measurable risk reduction. We pioneered the first MOBILESOC app for on‑the‑go detection and response, infused AI into automated alert resolution to eliminate noise, and slashed investigation time by 99.3%. From AI‑assisted triage to analyst copilots, we combine machine intelligence with human judgment to deliver outcomes our customers trust. Who You Are We are seeking a motivated and ambitious Account Executive to join our Sales team as we expand in the cybersecurity space. The position offers the flexibility of remote work, but candidates must be located in Central (Texas) territory. As an Account Executive, you will drive revenue through new customer acquisition and expansion of existing accounts, leveraging our portfolio of managed detection and response, professional services, and risk & compliance solutions to deliver exceptional value to clients. The ideal candidate is driven, resourceful, and eager to exceed goals, with a strong combination of industry knowledge and exceptional relationship‑building skills across multiple verticals. You will manage your territory autonomously while collaborating closely with internal teams in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment. What You Will Be Doing Act as the client and prospect contact as a cybersecurity advisor covering endpoints, networks, security operations, vulnerability management, SIEM, incident response, security assessments, testing, threat intelligence, and more. Drive new business sales, managing the full sales process from prospecting to close. Regularly meet or exceed quota while maintaining accurate and timely pipeline and forecast data. Manage and build reseller and partner relationships to drive business. Deliver dynamic presentations and product demonstrations via MS Teams and in person. Build pipeline through identifying and qualifying opportunities within your territory and negotiate pricing and contractual terms to close sales. Ensure excellent service and support to prospects and customers by creating long‑term relationships. Build, maintain, and develop expertise on Critical Start’s solutions. Support marketing activities, events, and customer meetings around the state(s) with some travel. Utilize Salesforce to track all relevant opportunity and account information and effectively manage the territory. What You Will Bring Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree or 5+ years of related sales experience. Must be physically located in Central (Texas). Experience partnering with technology value‑added partner companies or manufacturers. Cybersecurity sales experience. Channel sales experience. Experience achieving quota attainment in a remote sales position. Proven excellence in selling IT security solutions to enterprise organizations and running an effective sales process. Demonstrated ability to close complex deals involving multiple executive‑level stakeholders and enterprise sales cycles. Successful record of prospecting, engaging, penetrating organizations at multiple levels, and acquiring major/enterprise‑level customers, with an existing rolodex of customers and channel relationships within the assigned geography. Previous work experience with sales tools including Salesforce.com, MS Office Suite & Teams, OneDrive, and other CRM/Marketing applications. Desired Qualifications Managed Service Sales experience a plus. Managed Detection & Response (MDR) experience is preferred. What It's Like Working Here We offer a dynamic, enjoyable, and rewarding work environment with a casual dress code, open offices, collaborative meeting spaces, phone rooms, wellness rooms, and a breakroom featuring games like ping‑pong, bubble hockey, foosball, and gaming machines. Compensation and Benefits Competitive salary with bonus potential Comprehensive health benefits with generous employer contributions for medical, dental, and vision Additional ancillary benefits offered at 100% employee contribution Unlimited PTO policy Paid parental and military leave Dental and vision plan Employer‑provided life, long‑term and short‑term disability coverage Additional voluntary life insurance coverage 401(k) plan with matching program Mines employee assistance program Monthly wellness initiatives Optional pet benefits discount plan Compensation: base range $125,000 – $175,000. Eligible for performance‑based variable compensation. Application Deadline April 30, 2026. How to Apply Interested candidates are invited to visit our career site and apply for the position: https://www.criticalstart.com/careers/ EEO Statement Critical Start welcomes people from all backgrounds and walks of life. One of our core values is to “Do what's best for our employees,” and that starts with hiring with equal opportunity and strict prohibition of discrimination or harassment based on protected characteristics. This policy encompasses all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. Physical and Mental Requirements Physical: Stationary for extended periods, constant computer use, occasional lifting up to 20 lbs, and ability to communicate information accurately. Mental: Apply established protocols timely, make timely decisions, meet deadlines and productivity quotas, work effectively in high stress situations, and address multiple complex problems simultaneously. #J-18808-Ljbffr