In the fast-paced world of cybersecurity and technology, creating a culture of success while staying ahead of the curve requires more than expertise—it demands vision, resilience, and leadership. At the heart of this dynamic ecosystem is Brittany Scott, Vice President of SMB Sales at KnowBe4, a company renowned for its innovative approach to security awareness training and simulated phishing. Brittany has charted an inspiring journey of ambition, resilience, and remarkable achievement. As a key leader at the world’s largest platform for security awareness training and simulated phishing, she has made significant contributions that have propelled KnowBe4’s growth, including its successful IPO in April 2021. A two-time Stevie Award winner for Woman of the Year in Sales and a recognized thought leader in cybersecurity and sales, Brittany embodies a vision-driven approach to leadership and business strategy.
A Journey Fueled by Courage and Determination
Hailing from a small town near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Brittany’s story is one of grit and determination. Growing up in a household led by strong, independent women—her mother and grandmother—she learned early the value of resilience and ambition.
Armed with a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Brittany embarked on her professional journey with just $300 in her pocket and a car full of dreams. Moving to Florida, she initially worked with Disney and later managed a team at Outback Steakhouse. However, her aspirations for growth led her to pursue an MBA at Johnson and Wales University. “I realized working 70 hours a week wasn’t conducive to my goals,” Brittany recalls. By 25, she had completed her MBA and ventured into timeshare resales before joining KnowBe4 in 2017 as an account manager.
Reflecting on her early days at KnowBe4, Brittany expresses deep gratitude for the company’s belief in her potential: “I can really attest to the fact that KnowBe4 believed in me and gave me the opportunity to show what I had to offer. I’ve made it my mission to pay it forward by helping others rise up the ranks like KnowBe4 did with me.”
The Power of Relationships and Authentic Leadership
For Brittany, success is rooted in the company you keep. “You have to surround yourself with like-minded, positive, ambitious people who want to bring you up with them,” she asserts. Whether it’s her close-knit group of friends, her supportive boss, or the inspiring employees she leads, Brittany values relationships built on trust, encouragement, and shared ambition.
This ethos extends to her leadership style. As someone who has mentored women aspiring to leadership roles, Brittany champions authenticity over pretense. “When I became VP, I was worried that I had to create a different executive presence to be taken seriously,” she shares. “People want to be led by authentic leaders. Find your voice, believe in yourself, and others will follow.”
Championing Innovation and Inclusion at KnowBe4
Under Brittany’s stewardship, KnowBe4 has upheld its position as a leader in security awareness training by fostering a culture of innovation and inclusivity. She takes pride in the company’s proactive approach to tackling social engineering threats and improving its platform continuously. “We are not just a different kind of security company; we are a company that, together with you, makes a difference,” Brittany emphasizes.
KnowBe4’s inclusive culture has been instrumental in driving employee engagement and innovation. Daily all-hands meetings led by the CEO reinforce transparency and shared goals, while the company’s professional development programs ensure employees have the tools they need to grow. “Companies need to invest in their employees’ personal and professional development,” Brittany notes. “We have a team that specializes in helping employees work towards their career goals, and that’s an amazing attribute of our company.”
As the founder of KnowBe4’s Women in Technology Employee Resource Group, Brittany has also been at the forefront of initiatives that empower women in tech. Her work as a mentor for #GirlsClub further exemplifies her dedication to breaking barriers and nurturing leadership talent.
Balancing Heroics with Team Processes
Brittany believes that both individual heroics and strong team processes are essential for organizational success. “It’s important to have ‘go-to’ individuals who believe in the mission and can inspire their colleagues,” she explains. At the same time, robust team processes provide the foundation for sustainable growth, ensuring clarity of purpose and direction for all.
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Leaders
To those stepping into leadership roles for the first time, Brittany offers sage advice: “Imposter syndrome is real, and almost everyone will experience it. You will doubt yourself and your abilities, but that’s okay. You are worthy and deserving of everything you receive.”
Her message is one of self-belief and perseverance—a reflection of the journey she herself has undertaken. “Remember that people want to be led by authentic leaders. Believe in yourself before you try to get others to believe in you.”
A Vision of Growth and Impact
Brittany Scott’s journey from a determined young professional with $300 to a transformative leader at KnowBe4 is a testament to the power of ambition, authentic leadership, and a commitment to uplifting others. Through her strategic insights and people-first approach, she continues to build a culture of success that not only drives business growth but also inspires the next generation of leaders.
Brittany Scott
Vice President of SMB Sales at KnowBe4
