Channel Director, Central (Chicago)

Critical Start•Chicago, IL

About The Position

Ready to make a real impact in cybersecurity? At Critical Start, we're not just protecting organizations; we're redefining how it's done. We're a team united by an inspiring purpose: to stop breaches, simplify security, and shape the future of cyber defense. If you're passionate about cutting-edge technology, thrive in a collaborative environment, and want your work to truly matter, you've found your home. We deliver 24x7 AI-accelerated, human-validated detection, investigation, and response across IT and OT. This means we cut through the noise, investigate real threats, and take trusted, SLA-backed action—all powered by the brightest minds and the latest AI. Since 2012, we've been helping organizations outpace evolving attacks with faster response, fewer escalations, and measurable risk reduction. Innovation isn't just a buzzword here; it's our DNA. We pioneered the first MOBILESOC app for on-the-go detection and response, infused AI into automated alert resolution to eliminate noise, and slashed investigation time by an astounding 99.3%. We're transforming how security teams work, and you could be a part of it. From AI-assisted triage to analyst copilots that elevate human expertise, we combine machine intelligence with human judgment to deliver outcomes our customer’s trust. If you're looking for a high-trust, high-impact team where your ideas are amplified by AI and valued by colleagues and customers alike, Critical Start is the place for you. Come build the future of cybersecurity with us. The Channel Director will focus on partners within the assigned region and develop strategies to grow Critical Start’s Managed Detection and Response (MDR) services through those partnerships. This role is responsible for building and executing a regional partner strategy. You will manage and strengthen relationships with Critical Start’s partners by collaborating cross-functionally with channel teams, field sales, technical sales, sales operations, and marketing. This role is also accountable for overall business execution and performance management with partners in the assigned region. Strong communication and collaboration skills, along with a results-driven and proactive approach, are essential to support revenue growth through assigned partners.

Requirements

8+ years of experience in channel management.
5+ years of experience in channel sales management within vendor or partner-led environments.
Working knowledge of selling technology solutions across multiple market segments, from Enterprise to SMB.
Demonstrated ability to develop and execute complex partner and territory plans and strategies.
Experience developing business plans, contributing to strategic planning, and creating reporting to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and return on investment (ROI).
Proven ability to influence and engage senior-level partner and distribution executives.
Strong presentation skills, including the ability to articulate market trends and transitions.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with customers and cross-functional teams.
Demonstrated leadership capability, including experience developing and managing virtual or distributed sales teams.
Strong time management, organizational, and negotiation skills.
Professional experience in IT sales and business development.
Comfort with public speaking and presenting to varied audiences.
Willingness and ability to travel regionally on a regular basis.
Strong understanding of the sales process and channel sales models.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, growing organization.
Prior experience successfully selling security solutions and services through channel partners.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute a regional partner plan aligned with business objectives.
Establish and maintain weekly, monthly, and quarterly engagement cadences with key partner stakeholders to create and execute tailored plans for each partner.
Build, maintain, and deepen partner relationships to drive increased sales opportunities.
Manage partner contracts in alignment with company policies and business goals.
Develop accurate sales forecasts and achieve monthly, quarterly, and annual revenue targets.
Serve as a trusted and valued resource to partners by providing guidance, support, and expertise.
Collaborate with field marketing and local channel teams to plan, execute, and manage effective partner communications and demand generation campaigns.
Develop and manage processes to ensure effective and efficient order processing across month-end, quarter-end, and fiscal year-end cycles.
Establish and strengthen partnerships with vendors within the MDR technology stack and execute joint go-to-market plans to drive partner demand.

Benefits

Competitive salary with bonus potential
Comprehensive health benefits with generous employer contributions for medical, dental, and vision
Additional Ancillary Benefits offered at 100% employee contribution
Unlimited PTO (Paid Time Off) policy
Paid Parental and Military Leave
Dental and Vision Plan
Employer-provided Life Insurance, Long-Term Disability, and Short-Term Disability coverage
Additional Voluntary Life Insurance coverage
401(k) Plan with Matching Program
Mines Employee Assistance Program
Monthly Wellness Initiatives
Optional Pet Benefits Discount Plan