Executive Search
Executive Search for Software and Technology Companies
We find the sales leaders, account executives, solutions engineers, customer success leaders and engineers who grow software companies. Based in Newport Beach. Hiring nationwide.
What We Do
How We Work
Howard Lee & Associates is an executive search firm for software and technology companies. We recruit for the roles that drive revenue and build product.
Most great candidates are not looking. They are busy doing good work somewhere else. We find them, talk with them directly, and bring you a short list of people who fit the role and your team.
We work with startups hiring their first sales leader and established companies scaling teams. Our focus is SaaS, AI and machine learning, cybersecurity and cloud.
About
Steve LePatner, Founder and CEO
Steve LePatner is the Founder and CEO of Howard Lee & Associates, an executive search firm that has helped technology companies build their teams since 1997.
Steve and his firm partner with AI and software companies, from high-growth startups to enterprise organizations, to hire exceptional sales, GTM, customer success and engineering talent.
Over nearly three decades he has placed sales, pre-sales, channel and alliance professionals at every level, from individual contributors to vice presidents. Steve is a seller at heart, and that is why he knows top sales talent when he sees it.
Specializations
Roles We Fill
Sales Leadership
VPs of Sales, CROs, regional directors and first sales hires. We look for leaders who have built teams, hit plans and know your market.
Account Executives
Mid-market, enterprise and strategic AEs who can carry a number. We check track records, deal size and sales motion before you meet anyone.
Pre-Sales and Solutions Engineering
Solutions engineers, sales engineers and pre-sales leaders. People who can run a strong demo and earn the trust of a technical buyer.
Customer Success
Customer success managers, directors and VPs who keep customers, drive renewals and grow accounts.
Software Engineering
Engineers and engineering leaders across backend, frontend, cloud, data and AI/ML. We screen for skills and for fit with how your team works.
Our Process
How a Search Works
Discovery call
We learn the role, the team, the targets and what success looks like in the first year.
Search plan
We agree on the profile, target companies, pay range and timeline.
Outreach
We reach out directly to qualified people, including those not on the job market.
Screening
We interview each candidate and check experience against your must haves.
Short list
You get a focused slate with notes on each person.
Interviews and offer
We coordinate interviews, gather feedback and help close the offer.
Follow up
We stay in touch with you and your new hire after the start date.
Why Us
Why Howard Lee & Associates
Tech only
We recruit for software and technology companies. That is all we do.
Direct attention
You work with Steve LePatner, our founder, on your search, not a rotating team.
Revenue and product roles
We know what good looks like in sales, pre-sales, customer success and engineering.
Discreet
We run confidential searches when you need to replace someone quietly or keep a new initiative private.
Clear updates
You always know where your search stands.
FAQ
Common Questions
What roles do you recruit for?
We recruit sales leaders, account executives, pre-sales and solutions engineers, customer success leaders and software engineers for software and technology companies.
Which industries do you focus on?
Software and technology, including SaaS, AI and machine learning, cybersecurity and cloud.
Do you only work in Southern California?
No. We are based in Newport Beach and serve clients across Southern California and nationwide, including remote roles.
Can you run a confidential search?
Yes. We can keep your company name private until a candidate is qualified and interested.
How do I get started?
Call 714-234-9045 or send a message through the contact form. We will set up a short call to talk about the role.
Get In Touch
Ready to hire?
Tell us about the role and we will get back to you.
Phone
714-234-9045Office
Newport Beach, California
Serving Southern California and nationwide