Meet The Team: Nick Benoit, Sr. Account Executive

Tell us a little about yourself, Nick!

Did you know that the sand on Whitehaven Beach in Australia is so fine it actually squeaks under your feet? Think fresh-new-kicks-on-a-clean-gym-floor squeak! It’s an incredible thing to experience.

I’m a born-and-bred, proud Newfoundlander, but have been fortunate enough to spend the better part of the last 20 years travelling the world for work, school, etc. Most recently, I called Australia home. I still can’t surf and can barely pronounce the word didgeridoo (did ya dee roo??), but goodness did Melbourne ever treat me to some of the best live music. Elton? Yes, “I'm Still Standing!” Fleetwood? Sure, why don't ya “Go Your Own Way!” Bruce? Now “I’m On Fire!” Ok, I’ll stop.

Thankfully, I have the most wonderful family here in Newfoundland that made eventually returning to The Rock a no-brainer—them, and that inimitable pull of the salt water. It’s been a little over a year since returning home, and I couldn’t be happier.

‍How did you first get into sales?

I got addicted to helping businesses solve critical challenges a little over 12 years ago! I was working in collaboration technology in Boston/NYC and learned firsthand from some pretty remarkable humans that sales is all about deep discussions, rich relationships, and artfully tackling the most complex challenges. When done right, it’s a beautiful art form and I’ve been chasing that addiction ever since.

Why did you first join CoLab? What’s the most exciting thing about working here?

When I first moved back home, I was really excited about immersing myself in all things Newfoundland and Labrador. I wasn’t quite sure how that was going to work professionally, but CoLab seemed to be a perfect fit from our very first conversation. It didn't take long for me to fall in love with the business, our mission, and the beautiful culture created by Adam, Jeremy, and the leadership team.

The most exciting thing about working here? Aside from the most incredible cast of humans, it’d have to be the fact that we’re literally changing the world of engineering collaboration. It’s a terrifyingly beautiful road to travel down and there’s nowhere else I’d rather be!

‍If you had to be shipwrecked on a deserted island, but all your human needs—such as food and water—were taken care of, what two items would you want to have with you?

That’s easy: iPhone so I can FaceTime my mom during Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy!, and kick her butt.

And a solar panel, to ensure my phone never dies… so I can FaceTime my mom during Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy!, and kick her butt.