Hey friends! I’m Allie Ridge, one of AppDynamics’ new Sales Recruiters. I started about 3 months ago and am already having a blast heading up our Inside Sales team in the Dallas Office!
One of our biggest initiatives is growing the Inside Sales Team here in Dallas and I’m ecstatic to be supporting such a huge focal point for AppDynamics. It is such an exciting time to be part of AppD as we’ve set really aggressive goals for the next 5 years, and getting the right people in is crucial to achieving those goals. Our Dallas office is currently made up of 150 talented individuals, and I can’t wait to see the additional talent we bring in.
In my short time here, I’ve had the opportunity to work with so many amazing people and leaders in the Dallas office, a few of which I had a chance to connect with – including Will May, Ryan Precious, Kyla King and Yev Saidachev. They shared how they see the company growing and more importantly, what they look for in a top sales candidate.
Check out the Q&A sessions below:
Will May, VP of Inside Sales
Fun Facts:
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Favorite snack in the office: Salt & Vinegar Chips.
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Favorite Sports Team: Tottenham Hotspur.
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In his free time, he loves to golf and spend time with his 2 kids.
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Traveling is another passion of his.
What do you look for in a candidate?
“We look for the make-up of ICCE: Intelligence, High Character, Highly Coachable, and Relevant Experience. These four characteristics combined really help set someone up for success at AppDynamics.”
What is your take on diversity in the Dallas office?
“By hiring people with a diverse set of strengths and unique skills, our team has a broader skill set and strength base to pull from. Now, at our Dallas office, there are about 150 employees, and we really strive to have diversity across all fronts. The best example of this is this past year, where we delivered our best-ever financial results as an office, and I would say our office is more diverse than it’s ever been.” To hear further from Will, please click here.
Ryan Precious, Senior Director of Commercial Sales
Fun Facts:
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Ryan grew up in Canada and played college basketball.
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He won $5K at our Sales Kickoff this year by competing against 700 sales members in a relay-race competition.
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He has never taken a sick day or missed one day of work throughout his career.
What has your experience at AppD been so far?
“What was advertised to me when joining was that AppD would give me the opportunity to grow personally, professionally and financially- and it has exceeded in all three. I first started at AppD with a team of 5 people, which has grown to over 40 in the past 3 years. The Cisco acquisition has been a great event for our company and the long-term network AppDynamics provides is invaluable.”
What advice would you give to early AppD employees?
“Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Put yourself in situations where you can be stretched. Even if you don’t know the technology or jargon, just jump in because it will accelerate your learning and growth here.”
How do you envision your team growing?
“It’s an exciting time to join AppD as our team will add more employees this year than ever before, so it’s a great time to get in and experience that growth, momentum, and career opportunities.”
Kyla King, Regional Director of US Public Sector
Fun Facts:
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Kyla grew up in Germany.
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She was an undergraduate Music major, with a focus on singing jazz.
Favorite trip she took:
As part of her MBA program, she traveled to Southeast Asia where she visited factories and businesses in Vietnam and explored the coast of Thailand.
Who is one of the best managers you’ve worked for?
“A woman who was passionately supportive of other women.” She recommended a book by Gail Evans called “She Wins, You Win” which is the idea we need to empower each other to be successful. “For example, a woman receiving a promotion is a win for all of us. I have a 4-year-old daughter and am constantly encouraging her to think for herself, and tell her she can achieve anything she sets her mind to if she works hard.”
What characteristics are most important to you to have on your team?
“Grit.”
Best piece of advice you’ve received?
“The idea you are never too busy for the things that matter. And accordingly, it is really important to prioritize your time and identify what is most important for you.”
Yev Saidachev, Director of Sales Development
Fun fact:
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Yev has been managed by both Will May and Ryan Precious at AppDynamics.
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Has 3 sons ages 10, 6 and 2. He hopes they have the same love of hockey as he does.
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Has known his wife since he was 11 years old.
What stands out in a candidate?
“Hunger. Someone who is hungry and willing to combat objections to show they are the right fit for AppD. In regards to the interview Process- it is not how you get into the interview process, but how you handle the interview process, positives and negatives, that will define who you are as an individual and your career.”
How do you best support your team?
“Always remind and show them you are in the boat with them. Be willing to do what you ask of them. Never let your title or role define you.”
What has your experience at AppD been so far?
“It has been a great experience. I have known since day one that the leadership team had my best interest in mind. I trusted leadership to help guide my career, and I built that trust initially as a rep.”
Think you’re a fit for an AppD sales role? Check out our careers page to learn more about career opportunities.