Bradley Kruse

Professional Background

Brad Kruse is a seasoned sales and marketing professional based on a strong educational foundation and a robust career in various high-profile roles across multiple industries. With over 20 years of experience leading sales initiatives and marketing strategies, Brad has consistently played a pivotal role in driving growth and strategizing business development. His impressive trajectory includes holding executive positions in multiple companies, contributing to their transformative journey from startups to established entities. Brad's extensive expertise in sales leadership has allowed him to navigate complex market landscapes successfully, making him a sought-after figure in the realms of sales and marketing.

In his most recent tenure as Vice President of Sales for SMS-Magic, an offshore pre-Series A startup, Brad was integral in establishing foundational sales strategies that aligned with the company’s growth ambitions. His role involved overseeing sales operations and developing strategic partnerships that facilitated crucial market entry and customer acquisition.

Prior to this, he enjoyed a successful career at MAX Digital as Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing, where he was instrumental in positioning the company on the prestigious Inc 5000 list and ultimately aiding in its acquisition by ACV Auctions (NASDAQ: ACVA). His efforts contributed significantly to the company's rapid growth, further establishing his reputation as a results-driven leader.

Another notable position was at LiveEnsure Inc., where Brad served as Senior Vice President of Sales, contributing to the startup's expansion and recognition in the venture capital space backed by Fairfax Financial. His work there exemplified his ability to create effective sales strategies in emerging technology environments.

At FreedomPay, Brad held the title of SVP of Sales, focusing on pre-product sales for a stealth SaaS big data and payment platform. This role not only highlighted his capability to pivot swiftly in a fast-evolving landscape but also showcased his adeptness in leading sales teams through the collection of valuable market insights.

Brad also played a significant role at The Mint Corporation (TSX), leading a turnaround strategy for a Fintech startup where he guided sales initiatives through Series B funding, culminating in a successful exit. His background also includes founding executive positions where he was responsible for sales and marketing strategies at eNett International, a company that achieved unicorn status and was subsequently acquired by WEX (NYSE: WEX).

Throughout his career, Brad has also been involved in establishing sales operations for new divisions at prominent companies. From his earlier role as VP of Sales, Marketing & Partner Alliances at Travelport (NYSE: TVPT) to becoming a Managing Director for International Sales & Marketing at Gage Products Company, Brad has continually demonstrated his abilities to drive international growth and develop strong partnerships.

Education and Achievements

In preparation for his impressive career, Brad Kruse pursued a solid educational background. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a concentration in International Economics from the University of Wisconsin-Stout. Additionally, he earned a Bachelor's degree in Statistics and Quantitative Economics from the University of Minnesota - Carlson School of Management. These degrees provided him with a comprehensive foundation in both economic theory and statistical analysis, equipping him with the necessary skills to make informed strategic decisions in business.

Brad's academic background laid the groundwork for his analytical approach to sales and marketing, where data-driven insights are crucial. His strong quantitative skills enable him to evaluate complex sales processes, forecast market trends, and implement effective sales strategies that resonate with clients.

Achievements

Brad's career is marked by numerous achievements that reflect his dedication and expertise in sales and marketing. His roles have not only included instrumental contributions to company growth but also evidences heightened skill in navigating the startup landscape. Some of his most remarkable achievements include:

• Leading Sales for Inc 5000 Ranked Company: At MAX Digital, Brad helped shape the company’s sales strategy, ultimately earning a spot on the Inc 5000 list, a testament to the rapid growth and success of the firm.
• Successful Exit Strategies: Throughout his career, Brad has successfully guided companies through strategic exits, including eNett International and The Mint Corporation, showcasing his adeptness in high-stakes environments.
• International Sales Growth: His role at Gage Products Company as Managing Director of International Sales & Marketing was crucial in expanding the company’s reach to first international customers.
• Building High-Performance Teams: Brad has a proven track record of building and leading high-performance sales teams, positioned to achieve aggressive sales targets and capture market share efficiently.
• Recognised Industry Leader: With over two decades of experience, his reputation as a prominent sales strategist is widely acknowledged, making him a trusted advisor and mentor within his network.

Brad Kruse continues to be an influential player in the sales and marketing landscape, leveraging his expansive skill set to foster growth and innovation in businesses at every stage. Whether leading sales teams in well-established organizations or helping nascent startups navigate their growth journeys, Brad’s commitment to excellence and strategic vision remains a driving force in his career.