About Canonical

Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu Linux, is at the forefront of the open source revolution in enterprise software. Ubuntu is the leading platform for public cloud compute, favored by software engineers, data scientists, and AI developers worldwide. Our mission is to accelerate the adoption and quality of open source globally, aiming to ship the most software on the planet by cores. From data centers to cloud and edge, Canonical delivers superior open source solutions, challenging major vendors with innovative products like software-defined storage, private clouds, container runtimes, databases, and more.

With over 1,000 colleagues across 70+ countries and $250 million in revenue, Canonical is profitable and on a steady growth trajectory. We serve Global 500 enterprises and startups, providing licensed products, commercial support, managed services, consulting, and training. Our remote-first culture believes talent is globally distributed, fostering diversity, teamwork, and excellence in a distributed leadership model.

Role Overview

The Telecom Account Executive role at Canonical is a strategic sales position targeting high-growth markets: Middle East, DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland), Nordics, Eastern Europe, and USA. This home-based, worldwide remote role requires fluency in local languages to build deep relationships with telecom enterprises adopting open source.

Sales professionals will leverage Ubuntu's widespread adoption to create profitable commercial relationships. You'll go beyond inbound leads to proactively develop territory potential, focusing on industries ready for deeper open source integration with Canonical's enterprise solutions.

Key Responsibilities

Prospect and Territory Development

Identify and pursue opportunities in telecom sectors across target regions. Use judgment to target companies primed for open source adoption, driving awareness and engagement.

Build Customer Relationships

Demonstrate empathy for telecom-specific challenges, communicating complex technical solutions clearly to build trust and secure deals.

Collaborate Cross-Functionally

Work with product managers and marketing teams on campaigns, balancing personal and team goals to exceed sales targets.

Drive Revenue Growth

Convert leads into long-term, profitable partnerships, contributing to Canonical's expansion in infrastructure, applications, and IoT ecosystems.

Qualifications & Requirements

Canonical seeks exceptional talent with:

• Empathy for customers: Real insight into telecom needs and business problems.
• High intellect: Rapid learning of complex topics and clear communication.
• Passion for technology: Enthusiasm for open source innovation and competition.
• Teamwork: Collaborative spirit across disciplines.
• Energy: Self-motivation to achieve top results.

Preferable: Fluency in Arabic, German, Swedish/Norwegian/Danish, Polish/Russian, or other regional languages. Proven telecom sales experience in competitive enterprise markets is essential. Our rigorous hiring process (3-6 months) ensures only top performers join.

Benefits & Perks

Joining Canonical means:

• 100% remote work flexibility worldwide.
• Competitive compensation estimated at $88,000-$154,000 USD annually, plus incentives.
• Comprehensive professional development and training.
• Health, wellness, and family support programs.
• Equity opportunities in a high-growth company.
• Global, inclusive culture celebrating diligence and collaboration.

Career Growth

Canonical invests in ambitious talent for long-term careers. Exceptional performers advance quickly in sales leadership, with opportunities to shape global strategy. Our focus on open source positions you at the cutting edge of enterprise tech, from AI to edge computing. With relentless growth, your contributions directly impact our mission to lead the open source tidal wave.

Why Join Canonical

Canonical offers a rare chance to work on Ubuntu, the world's most popular open source platform, in a profitable, remote-first company defying traditional software giants. If you understand enterprise dynamics and open source's rise, thrive in high-bar environments, and seek meaningful impact, this is your opportunity. We're building the best enterprise software company through character, ability, and uncomfortable pursuit of excellence.

Role FAQs

Is this role remote?

Yes, fully home-based worldwide, aligning with our distributed model.

What languages are needed?

Fluency in local languages for target markets (e.g., Arabic for Middle East, German for DACH) is highly preferable.

How long is the hiring process?

3-6 months, designed for serious, long-term candidates.

What salary can I expect?

Estimated $88,000-$154,000 USD yearly, based on tech sector rates with buffer.

Do I need open source sales experience?

Telecom enterprise sales experience is key; passion for open source is a plus.