Accel-KKR & Basware

Find out how we helped Basware build their EMEA GTM Sales Team following a referral from their PE partner.

In the intricate realm of strategic enterprise sales, Oakstone International has excelled in assembling elite teams, ensuring sustained success in the ever-evolving SaaS marketplace. Our recent collaboration with Basware, building upon our foundational engagement with Coupa, highlights our expertise in consistently sourcing and nurturing exceptional new talent globally. 

This case study highlights our strategic approach to constructing Basware's strategic enterprise sales force.

Consistency in Excellence: The Oakstone Advantage

Our ability to consistently hire outstanding individuals in a market full of changing variables is a testament to Oakstone's adaptability and precision. Our sustained success stems from a profound understanding of the multifaceted nature of talent acquisition and management in the modern age. Oakstone prides itself on its consistently reliable delivery of quality hires who contribute to our clients' ongoing success and growth, solidifying our reputation as a leader in strategic talent solutions.

Crafting Basware's Strategic Enterprise Sales Team

Introduced to Basware by their private equity investors, Accel-KKR, and Mark McCarthy, an operational principal whom Oakstone has worked closely with during his time at Coupa, Oakstone International accepted the strategic mission to build a robust sales team in EMEA, APAC and the US. 

This team was to excel in conveying Basware's best in class AP and e-Invoicing solutions to sophisticated enterprises. Oakstone was retained to assist with a global re-organisation and growth plan for the Enterprise sales team. 

A Reflection on Our Journey with Coupa

Our partnership with Coupa, spanning nearly a decade, saw us become their most significant external source of strategic sales talent. Our placements included pivotal roles within the leadership team, leading to remarkable outcomes:

• An exemplary 100% retention of management over 5+ years

• Zero churn within six months of all AE hires

• A consistent record of placements, winning the top salesperson award for seven consecutive years.

• Hiring over 110 people globally

Furthermore, we were central to Coupa's establishment in key international markets, building their presence from the ground up in Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, Spain, Italy, Sweden, Denmark, Singapore, the Netherlands, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates.

Understanding Accel-KKR

Accel-KKR, a vital partner in our work with Basware, epitomises agility, flexibility, and steadfast commitment in the private equity landscape. With a portfolio of over 350 companies over two decades, Accel-KKR is a prominent investor in the software and tech-enabled services sectors. These transactions have included:

• Acquisitions and recapitalisations of founder-owned or closely held private companies

• Buyouts of divisions, subsidiaries and business units from private and public companies

• Going-private transactions of public companies

• Minority growth capital

• Credit investments

A glance at Basware

Basware is the only procure-to-pay and e-invoicing solution provider that empowers businesses with 100% spend visibility through 100% data capture. Their innovative cloud-based technology empowers businesses to fully manage their spending, mitigate financial risk, and automate operations to reduce costs. Founded in 2002 and headquartered in Fort Mill, South Carolina, Basware is the unparalleled choice for procurement and invoicing solutions.

"Thanks to team Oakstone for all your support and hard work."

Mark McCarthy, Advisor at Accel-KKR and GTM advisor at Basware.

Basware Feedback

"Our team has benefitted tremendously from the talent Oakstone has placed already - looking forward to building together for the future!" 

Susan Gardner, National Director Basware, US.

Multiple hires made in the following regions:

Global Pre-Sales Director, UK

RVP DACH & CEMEA, Germany

Account Executive, Switzerland

Account Executive, UK

Account Executive, Germany

Account Executive, USA

Account Executive, APAC

Oakstone International's record of strategic talent acquisition goes beyond filling positions; it's about forging a legacy of success within our partner organisations. Our engagements with Basware, Coupa and the individuals within them exemplify our expertise and dedication to excellence. As the business landscape evolves, our commitment to methodological hiring practices ensures our clients secure the talent they need.