Strategic Account Executive - Virtual (Western Region)

Alight•Virtual, CA

4d•$185,000 - $200,000•Remote

About The Position

The Strategic Account Executive (SAE) is responsible for deepening and expanding Alight’s relationships with existing clients. The role combines executive presence, credibility, and a client-first mindset to support retention, resolve challenges, and uncover growth opportunities across current accounts. The SAE engages confidently with senior client leaders and develops an understanding of client-specific delivery needs and processes. The position leads renewal and retention strategies, supports client teams through escalations and quality issues, and identifies opportunities to cross-sell and expand business. It works collaboratively with internal partners to address client challenges and deliver ROI- or VOI-driven solutions. The role includes regular client performance reviews and requires travel of 25–50%, sometimes on short notice, to support client meetings. The role is listed as virtual; occasional travel to a physical office location may be required. The salary range is $185,000–$200,000 USD. Bonus and/or incentive eligibility depends on the role and level. Alight offers benefits including health, dental and vision coverage starting Day One, wellbeing programs, retirement plans with contribution matching, generous time off, parental leave, continuing education, career growth opportunities, and a competitive total rewards package.

Requirements

At least 5 years of success in account management, client success, or strategic sales within HR, consulting, brokerage, healthcare, or related industries.
Proven track record managing mid-to-large employer accounts with 5,000 or more employees.
Polished, professional presence with strong executive communication, influencing, and negotiation skills.
Deep understanding of Alight’s solutions and delivery, with the ability to navigate client-specific nuances.
Strong problem-solving skills and ability to create innovative, client-specific strategies.
Growth mindset and proven ability to identify and close expansion opportunities.
Collaborative approach and passion for long-term client partnership and retention.
Excellent organizational, administrative, and interpersonal skills, with ability to manage complex relationships.
Exceptional negotiation and influencing skills, including ability to persuade and collaborate with clients, brokers, team members, and leadership.
Demonstrated ability to meet goals and manage a complex portfolio of accounts.
Ability to facilitate strategic planning discussions and help clients define and achieve key objectives.
Strong listening, inquiry, and communication skills, including ability to translate strategic discussions into clear, actionable plans.
Work authorization in the country of application that does not now or in the future require visa sponsorship.

Responsibilities

Serve as a trusted advisor to CHROs and senior client leaders, presenting confidently and building executive-level relationships.
Develop credibility with clients by understanding delivery nuances and supporting teams through escalations, quality issues (E&Os), and change order negotiations.
Broaden connections across client organizations, meet additional leaders, identify challenges, and connect them to Alight’s solutions.
Lead renewal and retention strategies, including preparation, presentation, and negotiation.
Use existing client access and relationships to cross-sell and expand business.
Collaborate with internal partners to address client challenges, coordinate resources, and deliver ROI/VOI-driven solutions.
Tailor deal approaches to client personalities and processes, designing solutions specific to each client.
Conduct regular performance reviews with clients to share results, address concerns, and identify growth opportunities.
Travel 25–50%, sometimes on short notice, to support client meetings.