Sales Manager, SMB (Chicago)

About this role

🌍 We’re making security suck less for developers. Security tools haven’t kept up with how software is built today. They interrupt teams, slow releases, and turn security into a bottleneck instead of a capability. We built Aikido to change that. Aikido builds developer-first security products that reduce real risk without getting in the way of shipping software. We focus on what actually matters and automate the rest. We’re taking on legacy security tools teams have been stuck with, and we’re winning. If you want to help us take market share and build products developers actually enjoy using, you’re in the right place. Founded in 2022 by third-time founders, Aikido has $85M in the bank and a long runway ahead. We’re building toward self-securing software. Join an all-star team. Take real ownership. Push boundaries. Build things that matter. We're looking for a hands-on Sales Manager to lead and grow our SMB sales team in Chicago.

You'll be responsible for managing and coaching a team of SMB Account Executives covering the Chicago market. This is not a pure management role we're looking for someone who leads from the front, helps close deals, sharpens execution, and raises the bar across the team.

Responsibilities Lead, coach, and scale a team of SMB Account Executives based in Chicago

Drive pipeline generation and revenue growth across your territory

Improve outbound, inbound, and sales execution processes

Support reps on strategic deals and key accounts

Build a high-performance, high-accountability sales culture

Collaborate with marketing and growth on GTM initiatives targeting SMB customers

Hire, onboard, and develop top sales talent

Forecast accurately and manage team performance metrics

Proven experience leading high-performing SaaS sales teams in an SMB segment

Experience managing SMB Account Executives

Strong understanding of outbound sales, prospecting, CRM workflows, and pipeline management

Tech-savvy and comfortable selling technical products

Strong coaching and people management skills

Self-starter who thrives in a fast-growing startup environment

Based in or willing to relocate to Chicago, IL

What you can expect High-impact role in a fast-growing company

Fast growth of responsibility

Competitive compensation package

An open, informal culture grounded in strong values

Flexibility in working hours and a hybrid work environment