Proofpoint
Director, Sales Engineering - Advanced Technologies - People Protection
About Us:
We are the leader in human-centric cybersecurity. Half a million customers, including 87 of the Fortune 100, rely on Proofpoint to protect their organizations. We’re driven by a mission to stay ahead of bad actors and safeguard the digital world. Join us in our pursuit to defend data and protect people.
How We Work:
At Proofpoint, you’ll be part of a global team that breaks barriers to redefine cybersecurity, guided by our BRAVE core values: Bold in how we dream and innovate, Responsive to feedback, challenges, and opportunities, Accountable for results and best-in-class outcomes, Visionary in future-focused problem-solving, Exceptional in execution and impact.
The Role and the Team
Proofpoint is seeking a highly motivated Director of Advanced Technologies – People Protection to lead a team of Sales Engineers supporting our People Protection business. This role is critical in driving technical excellence across a diverse and evolving product portfolio, including Impersonation Protection, User Protection, Adaptive Email DLP (AEDLP), and other emerging technologies.
You will lead a team of approximately 20 technical specialists, including 2–3 front-line managers, in supporting customer engagements through demos, proof-of-concepts (POCs), deep technical dives, hands-on lab development, and lab event execution. You’ll also play a key role in pipeline build execution and strategic enablement across the business.
This is a player-coach role that requires strong technical acumen, leadership experience, and the ability to make informed decisions using both limited information and performance metrics.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and develop a high-performing team of Specialist Sales Engineers focused on People Protection technologies.
Support technical sales efforts across multiple product lines, including new and emerging solutions.
Drive execution of POCs, demos, deep dives, and lab events to support customer success.
Collaborate cross-functionally with Sales, Product, Marketing, and Enablement teams to align on go-to-market strategies.
Work closely with Product Management to provide customer feedback, influence product direction, and develop relevant use cases.
Lead enablement for our core counterparts on the product lines that this team is responsible for.
Make data-informed decisions and guide the team through ambiguity and evolving priorities.
Foster a culture of innovation, agility, and continuous learning.
Act as a technical leader and contributor in strategic customer engagements.
Partner with recruiting and HR to attract and retain top talent.
Travel as needed (25–50%) to support team and customer needs.
Job Requirements
Proven experience leading technical sales or sales engineering teams in cybersecurity or SaaS.
Experience managing managers and scaling technical teams.
Ability to lead through ambiguity and drive clarity in complex technical scenarios.
Demonstrated success in partnering with Product Management to influence roadmap and strategy.
CISSP or similar certifications preferred.
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
Why Proofpoint? At Proofpoint, we believe that an exceptional career experience includes a comprehensive compensation and benefits package. Here are just a few reasons you’ll love working with us:
• Competitive compensation
• Comprehensive benefits
• Learning & Development: We are committed to the growth and development of our team members, offering a range of programs including leadership and professional development workshops, stretch project assignments, and mentoring opportunities to help employees reach their full potential.
• Flexible work environment: [Remote options, hybrid schedules, flexible hours, etc.].
• Annual wellness and community outreach days
• Always on recognition for your contributions
• Global collaboration and networking opportunities
Our Culture:
Our culture is rooted in values that inspire belonging, empower purpose and drive success-every day, for everyone. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. If you need accommodation during the application or interview process, please reach out to [email protected]. How to Apply Interested? Submit your application here https://www.proofpoint.com/us/company/careers. We can’t wait to hear from you!
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