Introduction
Kristy Schafer brings a robust background in SaaS sales and data analytics to her role as Vice President of US Sales at Optable. With over 20 years of experience in the adtech and data management sectors, Schafer’s appointment signifies a strategic move for Optable as they expand their market footprint in the United States.
Professional Background
Current Role
Position: Vice President of US Sales
Company: Optable
Start Date: May 1, 2024
Reporting To: Andrew Dumas, US Managing Director, Optable
Previous Experience
1. Permutive:
- Role: VP of Sales, North America
- Notable Achievements: Spearheaded the company's expansion into the US market and supported publishers in developing tailored first-party data strategies.
2. Google:
- Role: Specialist in Analytics
- Key Contributions: Assisted media companies and retailers in understanding user engagement, site performance, and ad attribution.
3. Cambri:
- Role: VP Sales, North America
4. Lattice Engines (acquired by Dun & Bradstreet):
- Role: Managed complex enterprise sales cycles.
5. Meltwater:
- Role: Worked in high-volume, low Average Contract Value (ACV) sales.
Educational Background
Institution: University of California, Davis
Location: Based in New York, NY, US
Key Competencies and Focus
Sales Strategy and Leadership
- Schafer has extensive experience in setting up and running sales organizations, particularly in the data and analytics space. Her expertise lies in prospecting, qualifying, and closing large deals.
- She employs a consultative approach that focuses on understanding buyer motivations and aligning sales strategies accordingly.
Industry Insights
- Schafer has been pivotal in addressing the challenges publishers face in the evolving advertising ecosystem, especially in light of the impending shift away from third-party cookies.
- She emphasizes the importance of technical understanding in adtech sales and has consistently prioritized demonstrating how solutions impact publishers, advertisers, and agencies.
Technological Acumen
- SalesTech Tools: Schafer has utilized a range of tech tools to amplify sales productivity and efficiency:
- Sales Automation: Outreach and Salesloft
- Sales Intelligence: 6sense
- Revenue Analytics: Clari
- Customer Conversation Analysis: Gong and Jimminy
- AI-powered Research: ChatGPT
Influence and Vision
- Mission Alignment: Schafer is drawn to Optable’s vision of advancing identity and data activation, aiding publishers in managing authenticated and unauthenticated audiences through comprehensive solutions.
- Innovation Focus: She values the collaborative and supportive culture at Optable, which fosters innovation and empowers every team member to contribute meaningfully.
Relevant Insights for Business Development
- Schafer's deep industry knowledge, combined with her experience at leading tech firms, positions her as a key influencer in driving Optable's growth in the US market.
- Her insights into building effective B2B sales journeys — focusing on understanding individual buyer motivations and leveraging advanced sales technologies — offer valuable strategies for potential collaborations and sales pitches.
Links
- LinkedIn Profile: [Kristy Schafer](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristyschafer)
- PR Newswire Announcement: [Kristy Schafer Joins Optable](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kristy-schafer-joins-optable-as-vice-president-of-us-sales-302132362.html)
- SalesTechStar Interview: [Kristy Schafer Interview](https://salestechstar.com/interviews/salestechstar-interview-with-kristy-schafer-vice-president-of-us-sales-at-optable/)
For further engagement or inquiries, reaching out via LinkedIn or direct contact through Optable’s official communication channels is recommended.