Strategic Account Executive - Remote (USA)

About Handshake

Handshake is revolutionizing the career landscape as the career network for the AI economy. We empower 20 million knowledge workers, partner with 1,600 educational institutions, and connect with 1 million employers, including every Fortune 50 company and leading AI labs. Our platform facilitates career discovery, hiring, and upskilling, offering opportunities ranging from freelance AI training gigs to full-time careers. This unique value proposition has driven exceptional growth, tripling our ARR at scale in 2025.

Why Join Handshake Now?

• Shape the future of careers in the AI economy on a global scale.
• Collaborate with world-class AI labs, Fortune 500 partners, and top educational institutions.
• Join a team with leadership from industry giants like Scale AI, Meta, xAI, Notion, Coinbase, and Palantir.
• Contribute to a massive, fast-growing business with billions in revenue.

The Role: Strategic Account Executive

We are seeking a highly motivated Strategic Account Executive to join our Strategic New Business team. This role focuses on acquiring net new Fortune 500 and Fortune 100 employers who are not yet partnering with Handshake. This is a pure hunter role, ideal for a sales professional who excels in high-visibility deal cycles, proactively generates pipeline, and closes complex six-figure partnerships with senior HR and business leaders.

As a Strategic Account Executive, you will manage a portfolio of named accounts and own the entire sales cycle, from initial account planning and first meetings to executive alignment, negotiation, and deal closure. You will operate with a high degree of autonomy and will be expected to travel, host customers, and excel in face-to-face interactions.

A Day in the Life

Each day as a Strategic Account Executive at Handshake is dynamic and challenging. Here's a glimpse into what you can expect:

• Morning: Start your day by reviewing your pipeline and prioritizing outreach to key prospects. Research potential leads within your assigned Fortune 500/100 accounts, identifying key decision-makers and understanding their business needs. Participate in team meetings to strategize on account penetration and share insights on market trends.
• Mid-Day: Conduct outbound calls and emails to schedule meetings with potential clients. Prepare and deliver compelling presentations and product demonstrations to showcase Handshake's value proposition. Engage in consultative conversations with HR and business leaders to understand their challenges and position Handshake as the ideal solution.
• Afternoon: Focus on advancing existing deals through the sales cycle. Prepare proposals, negotiate terms, and address any concerns or objections. Collaborate with internal teams, such as legal and finance, to ensure seamless deal execution. Travel to client sites for in-person meetings and relationship-building activities.
• End of Day: Update your sales forecast and CRM with accurate information on deal progress. Review your performance against quota and identify areas for improvement. Plan for the next day's activities, prioritizing key tasks and follow-up actions.

Why Remote (USA)?

Handshake embraces a remote-first work environment, recognizing the benefits of flexibility and work-life balance. As a remote Strategic Account Executive in the USA, you can:

• Work from anywhere in the United States, providing you with the freedom to choose your ideal living environment.
• Eliminate commute times and expenses, saving you valuable time and money.
• Enjoy a more flexible schedule, allowing you to better manage your personal and professional responsibilities.
• Collaborate with a diverse team of talented professionals from across the country.
• Leverage Handshake's technology and tools to stay connected and productive.

Career Path

Handshake is committed to providing its employees with opportunities for growth and advancement. As a Strategic Account Executive, you can progress along a well-defined career path:

• Strategic Account Executive: Successfully acquire new Fortune 500/100 employers and consistently exceed quota.
• Senior Strategic Account Executive: Take on additional responsibilities, such as mentoring junior team members or leading strategic initiatives.
• Principal Strategic Account Executive: Manage the most complex and high-value accounts, serving as a trusted advisor to senior executives.
• Sales Management: Lead and manage a team of Strategic Account Executives, driving overall sales performance and achieving team goals.

Salary and Benefits

Handshake offers a competitive salary and benefits package to attract and retain top talent. While the specific salary for this role will depend on your experience and qualifications, you can expect a highly competitive base salary plus commission. Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

• Equity in a fast-growing company
• 401(k) match
• Competitive compensation
• Financial coaching
• Paid parental leave
• Fertility benefits
• Parental coaching
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Mental health support
• $500 wellness stipend
• $2,000 learning stipend
• Ongoing professional development
• Internet stipend (remote)
• Commuting assistance (office)
• Free lunch (SF office)
• Free gym (SF office)
• Flexible PTO
• 15 holidays
• 2 flex days
• Team outings
• Referral bonuses

Our Mission

Handshake's mission is to democratize opportunity and empower individuals to build fulfilling careers. We believe that everyone, regardless of their background or location, should have access to the resources and connections they need to succeed. As a Strategic Account Executive, you will play a critical role in advancing this mission by connecting leading employers with talented individuals from all walks of life.

How to Apply

If you are a highly motivated and results-oriented sales professional with a passion for connecting people with opportunities, we encourage you to apply for the Strategic Account Executive position at Handshake. To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter through our online application portal. We look forward to hearing from you!

FAQ

1. What is Handshake?
   Handshake is the career network for the AI economy, connecting students, alumni, and young professionals with employers.
2. What is the role of a Strategic Account Executive?
   The Strategic Account Executive acquires net new Fortune 500 and Fortune 100 employers for Handshake.
3. Is this a remote position?
   Yes, this is a remote position based in the USA.
4. What are the key qualifications for this role?
   Key qualifications include 4+ years of SaaS closing experience, a track record of quota attainment, and experience closing six-figure deals.
5. What are the benefits of working at Handshake?
   Handshake offers a comprehensive benefits package, including equity, 401(k) match, and generous time off.
6. What is the career path for a Strategic Account Executive?
   The career path includes advancement to Senior Strategic Account Executive, Principal Strategic Account Executive, and Sales Management roles.
7. What is Handshake's mission?
   Handshake's mission is to democratize opportunity and empower individuals to build fulfilling careers.
8. What is the company culture like at Handshake?
   Handshake fosters a collaborative, inclusive, and results-oriented culture.
9. How does Handshake support employee growth and development?
   Handshake offers a $2,000 learning stipend and ongoing professional development opportunities.
10. What is the interview process like?
    The interview process typically includes a phone screening, a virtual interview with the hiring manager, and a final interview with the team.