At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead technical sales for partners across EMEA in cybersecurity.
- Company: Join Proofpoint, a global leader in human-centric cybersecurity.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible work, wellness days, and global networking.
- Other info: Dynamic role with travel opportunities and a focus on AI/Data Security.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cybersecurity while empowering partners and teams.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in cybersecurity and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
About Us: Proofpoint is a global leader in human- and agent-centric cybersecurity. We protect how people, data, and AI agents connect across email, cloud, and collaboration tools. Over 80 of the Fortune 100, 10,000 large enterprises, and millions of smaller organizations trust Proofpoint to stop threats, prevent data loss, and build resilience across their people and AI workflows. Our mission is simple: safeguard the digital world and empower people to work securely and confidently. Join us in our pursuit to defend data and protect people.
How We Work: At Proofpoint you'll be part of a global team that breaks barriers to redefine cybersecurity guided by our BRAVE core values:
- Bold in how we dream and innovate
- Responsive to feedback, challenges and opportunities
- Accountable for results and best in class outcomes
- Visionary in future focused problem-solving
- Exceptional in execution and impact
The Role: The Director, Channel Sales Engineering — EMEA is the channel-facing technical leader responsible for partner practice building, partner GTM, and technical enablement across EMEA. This leader scales partner capability (SE Experts, CDP), drives partner-sourced NARR, and operationalizes SaaS lifecycle motions (Acquire Adopt Expand Renew) with strong focus on AI/Data Security, agentic-workspace risk, and services-first economics.
Operationalize Proofpoint's sales plays through partner GTM, enablement, and practice building.
- Multi-Layer Protection Against AI Threats
- Stop Email Data Loss with AI (Adaptive Email DLP)
- AI-Ready Data Security (Secure Copilot & AI Tools)
This is an EMEA role with matrixed responsibility across multiple countries; The role reports to the Global Channel SE leader and partners closely with Channel Sales, Technology Alliances, Customer Success, and Premium Security Services.
What Success Looks Like:
- Measurable uplift in partner-sourced NARR and partner-led pipeline progression across EMEA
- Partners able to position, demo, and validate AI/Data Security and Agent Integrity plays (improved POC throughput and win rates)
- Growth in partner delivery capability (SE Experts, CDP coverage) and adoption/retention motions delivered by partners.
- AI/Data Security, Secure Copilot, DLP modernization, and agentic-workspace risk remediation
- Build repeatable partner practice models and enable partners to package services (Health Checks, CISO Decks, managed services)
- Drive partner technical enablement (certification pathways), demo/POC factories, labs, and partner scorecards that measure adoption & PS deflection
- Serve as executive technical sponsor for strategic partner relationships and selected strategic deals
- Hire, coach and scale channel SEs and partner-facing technical talent across EMEA.
Coverage, Language & Travel Expectations:
- Coverage: Pan-EMEA (all countries). Primary sub-regions of focus include UKI, DACH, France, Southern, META, North, and EE
- Candidate must demonstrate experience selling through VAR/SI/MSP/MSSP ecosystems in EMEA and operating across multiple countries
- Languages: Business-level English required. Fluency in at least one major European language is strongly preferred; French fluency preferred for the Paris hire
- Travel: Expect ~30–50% travel across the region;
Qualifications:
- Extensive experience in cybersecurity/cloud security/SaaS with strong technical pre-sales or partner GTM experience
- Proven experience leading partner/channel technical motions in EMEA or equivalent multinational experience
- People leadership experience essential
- Executive presence with partner practice leaders and distributors; business English required.
Preferred:
- Experience building/scaling partner services (deployment, health checks, program design, managed services)
- Track record driving partner technical certification programs (SE Expert, CDP)
- Deep knowledge of data security (DLP modernization, DSPM), insider risk, and agentic workspace / AI governance
- BS in Computer Science/Engineering or related (MS/MBA a plus)
Why Proofpoint? At Proofpoint, we believe that an exceptional career experience includes a comprehensive compensation and benefits package. Here are just a few reasons you'll love working with us:
- Competitive compensation
- Comprehensive benefits
- Career success on your terms
- Flexible work environment
- Annual wellness and community outreach days
- Always on recognition for your contributions
- Global collaboration and networking opportunities
Our Culture: Our culture is rooted in values that inspire belonging, empower purpose and drive success-every day, for everyone.
If you need accommodation during the application or interview process, please reach out to accessibility@proofpoint.
Submit your application along with any supporting information- we can't wait to hear from you!
Summary Location: Reading, England Type: Full time
Director of Sales Engineering EMEA, Cybersecurity in Reading employer: Proofpoint
At Proofpoint, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. Our Benelux team is dedicated to employee growth, offering extensive training and development opportunities while working in a dynamic environment that values diversity and inclusion. With competitive benefits and a focus on meaningful work, joining us means becoming part of a mission-driven company committed to protecting organisations from advanced threats.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Sales Engineering EMEA, Cybersecurity in Reading
✨Get Involved in the Cybersecurity Community
Diving into the cybersecurity community is key for landing that full-time gig. Join forums like Reddit's r/cybersecurity or attend local meetups to connect with industry veterans and other job seekers. Networking is everything in this field—don’t just be a passive lurker!
✨Show Off Your Skills with Capture the Flag Competitions
Participate in Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions; these are not just a fun way to boost your skills but also a chance to showcase your talent to potential employers. Many companies, including Proofpoint, love seeing candidates who actively engage in these challenges.
✨Tailor Your Online Presence
Make sure your LinkedIn and any professional profiles reflect your cybersecurity expertise. Share your projects, whether they’re personal or from a previous role, to catch the eye of hiring managers. This is how they’ll find your passion and commitment to the field!
✨Apply Directly Through Proofpoint
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at Proofpoint. Applying directly can sometimes give you an edge, especially if you can mention that you've been following our work or engaging in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Sales Engineering EMEA, Cybersecurity in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off your technical skills:In cybersecurity, it's crucial to highlight your technical prowess. Make sure your CV showcases specific skills like network security, penetration testing, or threat analysis. If you have relevant certifications (like CEH or CISSP), pop those on the front page to grab attention!
Tailor your portfolio for the role:Even for a full-time role, a portfolio can set you apart. If you've worked on any cybersecurity projects—be it CTF challenges, security assessments, or research papers—include these in your application. This demonstrates not just your skills, but also your hands-on experience!
Use real-world examples:When writing your cover letter, don’t just stick to your qualifications. Share real-world examples of how you’ve tackled security issues or vulnerabilities. This gives the hiring team at Proofpoint insight into your practical problem-solving abilities and makes your application memorable.
Demonstrate your passion for cybersecurity:Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field, so show us that you’re always learning! Mention any recent courses, webinars, or industry events you’ve attended. This not only exhibits your enthusiasm but also signals to Proofpoint that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at Proofpoint
✨Sharpen Your Technical Skills
For a role in cybersecurity, it’s essential to be up-to-date with the latest tools and techniques. Brush up on your knowledge of firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability assessment tools. Be ready to discuss specific scenarios where you’ve applied these skills, as hands-on experience can really set us apart in interviews.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect the interviewers at Proofpoint to throw in some hypothetical situations to see how you’d handle them. Think about common security breaches or incidents and be prepared to explain how you would respond. This not only shows your problem-solving skills but also your understanding of real-world cybersecurity challenges.
✨Highlight Your Certifications
Certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or CEH can give you a significant edge in a full-time role in cybersecurity. Make sure to mention these during your interview and be prepared to discuss what you learned through those certifications and how they relate to the position at Proofpoint.
✨Show Your Passion for Cybersecurity
Since you’re going for a full-time gig, showing genuine enthusiasm for the field can make all the difference. Share any personal projects, blogs, or communities you’re part of that relate to cybersecurity. This not only showcases your passion but also your commitment to staying engaged in this ever-evolving field.
