Senior Account Executive / Business Development Director

About Cognite

Cognite leads industrial digitalization by creating AI and data-driven solutions that tackle some of the most complex and impactful challenges globally. Backed by deep industrial expertise and a robust portfolio of AI tools including low-code AI agents, the company expedites digital transformation to enhance operational efficiency. Their ambitious goal is to unlock $100 billion in customer value by 2035 while revolutionizing global industry operations.

Role Overview and Responsibilities

• Drive the sales process by qualifying and closing ongoing deals.
• Engage in proactive prospecting to build new pipelines, offering clients insights on how Cognite's solutions can optimize critical parts of their value chain.
• Establish and nurture strong relationships with key Digital, IT, and Business stakeholders, including C-suite executives within priority accounts.
• Lead qualified opportunities by collaborating effectively with internal teams such as Tech Sales, Services, Product Management, Dealdesk, Executives, and partners.
• Create and implement strategic account and opportunity pursuit plans to ensure successful closures.
• Consistently achieve and exceed defined sales targets.
• Maintain precise sales forecasts and comprehensive account plans.
• Commit to extensive travel, dedicating 40-50% of time visiting client sites, conferences, events, and other relevant activities.

Candidate Profile and Required Qualifications

• Possess 4 to 7 years of dynamic experience in fast-paced settings such as business development, startups, sales, consulting, or strategy roles.
• Exhibit high energy, ambition, and thrive amid uncertainty and change.
• Demonstrate curiosity and openness to coaching, with a strong desire to learn and adapt.
• Show robust analytical and problem-solving capabilities, comfortable working with numbers and business case development; proficient in Excel and PowerPoint.
• Have excellent attention to detail, with strong interpersonal skills focused on delivering exceptional customer service.
• Be self-driven and capable of independently managing processes and outcomes with minimal supervision.
• Show a keen interest and familiarity with technologies such as Big Data, Internet of Things (IoT), Generative AI, Machine Learning, and Business Intelligence.
• While prior training in Command of the Message, MEDDPICC, and Salesforce is advantageous, it is not mandatory.
• Although not required, experience in selling to C-level executives in both business and IT sectors is beneficial.
• Fluency in both German and English with outstanding written and verbal communication skills, including strong presentation abilities, is essential.
• Holding at least a Bachelor's degree is required, with preference for candidates possessing a relevant Master's degree.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

Cognite is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and proudly offers equal employment opportunities. All applicants who meet the qualifications will be evaluated fairly without discrimination.