Account Executive - Higher Education
WFA Digital Insight
The demand for AI and data storage solutions in Higher Education is on the rise, with many institutions seeking to leverage cutting-edge technology to enhance research and learning. As a result, skilled sales professionals with expertise in AI and data management are in high demand. With DDN's strong market presence and commitment to innovation, this Account Executive role offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in the industry. According to recent statistics, the global AI market is expected to reach
Job Description
About the Role
The Account Executive - Higher Education role at DDN is a strategic sales position that requires building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders in the Higher Education sector. As a seasoned sales professional, you will be responsible for driving revenue growth, identifying new business opportunities, and developing and executing strategic account plans. You will work closely with cross-functional teams, including pre-sales engineers and solution architects, to deliver tailored solutions that address customer challenges. With 70% travel expected, you will need to be comfortable with frequent travel to engage directly with customers and drive regional growth.In this role, you will be part of a dynamic team that is passionate about harnessing the power of AI and data storage to transform the Higher Education landscape. You will have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology and collaborate with industry experts to drive innovation and growth. If you are a results-driven sales professional with a proven track record of success in complex sales environments, this role could be an excellent fit for you.
DDN is a global leader in AI and high-performance data storage solutions, with a strong presence in the Higher Education sector. Our commitment to innovation, customer-centricity, and teamwork has enabled us to build long-term relationships with our customers and drive growth through strategic partnerships.
What You Will Do
- Own and drive revenue growth within assigned Higher Education accounts and territory
- Develop and execute strategic account plans targeting Higher Education customers
- Identify, qualify, and close new business opportunities aligned with DDN's AI and data platform solutions
- Build strong relationships with key stakeholders, including CIOs, CTOs, data leaders, and engineering teams
- Partner with pre-sales engineers and solution architects to deliver tailored solutions that address customer challenges
- Lead complex sales cycles from prospecting through negotiation and close
- Collaborate cross-functionally with marketing, product, and customer success teams to ensure successful customer outcomes
- Maintain accurate pipeline management and forecasting within CRM systems
- Travel extensively (up to 70%) to engage with customers and drive regional growth
What We Are Looking For
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience
- 10+ years of enterprise technology sales experience, preferably within storage, infrastructure, or data solutions
- Experience selling into Higher Education verticals
- Proven track record of meeting or exceeding quota in complex, solution-based sales environments
- Strong understanding of enterprise IT, data infrastructure, or AI/ML ecosystems
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and executive presentation skills
- Ability to manage long sales cycles and multiple stakeholders
- Experience with CRM systems and pipeline management
Nice to Have
- Experience with high-performance computing (HPC), AI infrastructure, or large-scale data environments
- Existing relationships within US Higher Education accounts
- Familiarity with DDN's AI and data platform solutions
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive base salary
- Variable compensation (commission) structure
- Opportunities for career growth and professional development
- Collaborative and dynamic work environment
- Access to cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions
- Flexible work arrangements, including remote work options
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance
- Generous PTO and holiday schedule
How to Stand Out
- Develop a strong understanding of the Higher Education sector and its unique challenges and opportunities
- Build a portfolio of successful sales experiences and case studies to demonstrate your expertise
- Familiarize yourself with DDN's AI and data platform solutions and be prepared to articulate their value proposition
- Practice your negotiation and presentation skills to effectively communicate with key stakeholders
- Research the company culture and values to ensure alignment with your own goals and expectations
- Be prepared to discuss your experience with CRM systems and pipeline management
- Highlight your ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with multiple stakeholders and priorities
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