What Is It Really Like to Work at KnowBe4?
Explore a detailed guide to working at KnowBe4. Learn about the company culture, salary expectations, benefits, and the impact of its acquisition. See if it's the right fit for your career.
Working at KnowBe4 offers a high-energy, sales-driven environment within the fast-growing cybersecurity training sector. Employees consistently praise the fun and transparent culture, exceptionally generous benefits like unlimited PTO and fully paid health insurance, and the collaborative team atmosphere. However, as a company acquired by private equity firm Vista Equity Partners in early 2023, prospective employees should be aware of potential shifts in strategy and culture that may accompany new ownership. The pace is fast and expectations are high, particularly in sales and development roles, reflecting its 'work hard, play hard' ethos.
- Founded
- 2010
- HQ
- Clearwater, Florida
- Employees
- 2000
- Industry
- Cybersecurity / Security Awareness Training
- Ownership
- Private
- KnowBe4 was a publicly traded company until it was acquired by private equity firm Vista Equity Partners for $4.6 billion in February 2023.
- The company is known for a unique, 'fun' culture, especially at its Clearwater, FL headquarters which features numerous office perks.
- Benefits are a significant differentiator, with KnowBe4 offering unlimited PTO and fully employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees.
- The company operates in the high-growth cybersecurity awareness and training industry, which it helped pioneer.
- Employee reviews often highlight a fast-paced, high-expectation environment, particularly within sales roles.
Working at KnowBe4 offers a high-energy, sales-driven environment within the fast-growing cybersecurity training sector. Employees consistently praise the fun and transparent culture, exceptionally generous benefits like unlimited PTO and fully paid health insurance, and the collaborative team atmosphere. However, as a company acquired by private equity firm Vista Equity Partners in early 2023, prospective employees should be aware of potential shifts in strategy and culture that may accompany new ownership. The pace is fast and expectations are high, particularly in sales and development roles, reflecting its 'work hard, play hard' ethos.
What is it actually like to work at KnowBe4?
KnowBe4 is the creator of the world's largest integrated platform for security awareness training combined with simulated phishing attacks. Headquartered in Clearwater, Florida, the company has built a reputation for a vibrant, high-energy, and uniquely 'fun' workplace culture. Employees, often called 'Knowsters', work in an environment aimed at fostering transparency and collaboration. The company's mission is to enable employees to make smarter security decisions, a goal it pursues both with its customers and its own staff.
The physical headquarters is a core part of the experience, often described as a vibrant campus with extensive amenities designed to make the office a desirable destination. This includes an on-site bistro providing free lunch, a fitness center, and other perks aimed at fostering a strong community. This culture was heavily shaped by founder and CEO Stu Sjouwerman, who promotes three core company rules: 1) do it right the first time, 2) do it fast, and 3) have fun while you do it. This translates into a fast-paced environment with high expectations, but one that also celebrates success and encourages team bonding.
A significant factor influencing the current and future work environment is the company's February 2023 acquisition by Vista Equity Partners, a major private equity firm, in a $4.6 billion all-cash deal. This transition from a public company (formerly ticker: KNBE) to a private entity under new ownership introduces both opportunities for growth and potential changes in strategy, operational focus, and culture. Source: Vista Equity Partners, KnowBe4 Careers Page
How does KnowBe4 pay compare?
Compensation at KnowBe4 is generally regarded as competitive, particularly when factoring in the comprehensive benefits package. Salaries vary significantly by role, geography, and experience, as is typical in the tech industry. Sales roles often include a substantial commission-based component, reflecting the company's strong sales-driven culture.
Based on self-reported data from platforms like Glassdoor, salaries at KnowBe4 appear to be competitive within its primary market of Tampa Bay, Florida, but may track slightly below national averages for major tech hubs. For example, a Software Engineer in the US reports an average base salary around $115,000, while a Sales Development Representative (SDR) might have a base salary in the low $50,000s, with significant on-target earnings potential. It's important for candidates to research salary bands for their specific role and location, as the company has offices worldwide.
| Role | KnowBe4 Reported Average Base Salary (US) | US National Median (May 2023) | Source(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Engineer | ~$115,000 | $130,290 | Glassdoor (self-reported), US BLS |
| Sales Development Representative | ~$52,000 | $52,190 (for 'Sales Reps, Wholesale & Mfg., Technical & Scientific') | Glassdoor (self-reported), US BLS |
Candidates should view self-reported figures as directional guides and validate expectations during the hiring process. The total compensation picture is not complete without considering the company's top-tier benefits. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Glassdoor
What benefits and time-off does KnowBe4 offer?
KnowBe4's benefits package is a major highlight and a key differentiator in attracting and retaining talent. The company invests heavily in employee well-being, offering a range of perks that go well beyond industry standards.
Key benefits include:
- Health Insurance: 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance premiums for employees. This is a rare and highly valuable benefit that provides significant financial savings.
- Unlimited Paid Time Off (PTO): KnowBe4 offers an unlimited PTO policy, trusting employees to take the time they need to rest and recharge while still meeting their performance goals.
- 401(k) Plan: The company offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan with a company match, helping employees save for the future.
- Parental Leave: Generous parental leave policies are in place to support new parents.
- On-Site Amenities (HQ): For those at the Clearwater headquarters, perks include a free on-site bistro for breakfast and lunch, a barista, a fitness center with trainers, and wellness rooms.
- Global and Remote Benefits: While physical perks are concentrated at HQ, the company offers comparable wellness and other benefits to its employees across its global offices and remote workforce.
This comprehensive package makes KnowBe4's total compensation highly attractive and reflects a culture that prioritizes employee health and work-life balance. Source: KnowBe4 Benefits Page
Culture, leadership, and DEI at KnowBe4
The culture at KnowBe4 is built on pillars of transparency, radical honesty, and fun. Leadership, spearheaded by CEO Stu Sjouwerman, practices a highly communicative style. This includes regular company-wide meetings to share financial performance, strategic goals, and other key business updates, ensuring all employees feel connected to the company's mission and progress. This level of transparency is a frequently praised aspect of the work environment.
The company has received numerous workplace awards over the years, including being named a top workplace by Fortune and Inc. Magazine, which validates the employee experience. The 'work hard, play hard' ethos is palpable, with high performance expectations balanced by a commitment to celebrating achievements and fostering a positive atmosphere.
Regarding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), KnowBe4 has established several Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) to support a diverse workforce. These groups include Black Empowerment & Excellence at KnowBe4 (BEEK), Women in Tech & Security (WITS), Pride (for LGBTQIA+ employees and allies), and BRAVE (for veterans and first responders). The company's DEI initiatives aim to create an inclusive environment where all employees can thrive and contribute their unique perspectives. These efforts are outlined publicly, demonstrating a commitment to building a workforce that reflects the global community it serves. Source: KnowBe4 Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
The hiring and interview process at KnowBe4
The hiring process at KnowBe4 is designed to be thorough yet efficient, aiming to identify candidates who not only have the right skills but also align with the company's unique culture.
Based on candidate reports, the process typically follows these steps:
- Application and Initial Screening: After submitting an application, a recruiter conducts an initial phone screen to discuss the role, your background, and cultural fit.
- Hiring Manager Interview: This stage involves a deeper conversation with the hiring manager to assess your experience and how you would contribute to the team.
- Assessment / Panel Interview: Depending on the role, this may involve a technical test, a presentation, or a panel interview with team members. For sales roles, a mock call or presentation is common. For technical roles, a coding challenge or system design discussion can be expected.
- Final Interviews: The last stage may involve meeting with senior leadership or other key stakeholders.
Candidates often describe the interviewers as friendly, transparent, and focused on finding a mutual fit. They advise preparing to speak about your accomplishments with specific metrics and to ask questions that demonstrate your interest in KnowBe4's mission and culture. The company values proactivity and a 'can-do' attitude, so demonstrating enthusiasm and preparedness is key. Source: KnowBe4 Interview Reviews on Glassdoor
Career growth and learning at KnowBe4
KnowBe4 operates in the learning and development space, and this focus is reflected internally. The company encourages continuous learning and provides various avenues for career growth. A significant part of onboarding and ongoing training involves using KnowBe4's own platform, giving employees a deep, firsthand understanding of the product they are building, marketing, and selling.
Opportunities for advancement are present, with a strong culture of promoting from within. Employees are encouraged to apply for internal roles, and the company works to provide clear career paths. For example, a successful Sales Development Representative (SDR) has a well-defined track to becoming an Account Manager.
The fast growth of the company, even post-acquisition, creates new roles and opportunities for employees to take on more responsibility. While formal mentorship or tuition reimbursement programs are not heavily advertised, the collaborative environment provides ample informal learning from peers and leaders. The primary driver of growth is performance in a meritocratic system where results are recognized and rewarded. Source: KnowBe4 Careers Page
Risks, criticisms, and what to watch
No workplace is perfect, and prospective employees should consider potential risks and criticisms. The most significant factor for KnowBe4 is its 2023 acquisition by Vista Equity Partners. Private equity ownership often brings a sharpened focus on financial metrics, efficiency, and profitability. This can sometimes lead to organizational restructuring, changes in strategic direction, or shifts in culture to align with new investor goals. While Vista has a track record of successfully growing software companies, candidates should be aware that the culture and operations may evolve from what they were when KnowBe4 was a founder-led public company.
Some employee reviews on platforms like Glassdoor mention the high-pressure environment, particularly in sales, where aggressive quotas and a fast pace are the norm. While many thrive in this setting, it may not be suitable for everyone. Work-life balance can be a challenge during periods of high growth or product deadlines, a common theme in the tech industry.
Finally, the cybersecurity market is intensely competitive. KnowBe4 is a leader, but it faces constant pressure from established competitors and new entrants. This requires the company and its employees to remain agile and constantly innovate, contributing to the demanding but exciting nature of the work. Source: TechCrunch
Most Loved Workplaces® context
KnowBe4 is part of a global community of over 1,800 certified Most Loved Workplaces® representing 2.8 million employees. This certification is based on the SPARK framework, which analyzes companies across five key dimensions: Systemic Collaboration, a Positive Vision of the Future, Alignment of Values, Respect, and Kindness. Research from the Best Practice Institute shows that top-tier Most Loved Workplaces® experience 4× higher revenue growth than their industry peers and 48% higher employee retention. Furthermore, a remarkable 92% of employees at Most Loved Workplaces® apply for roles when openings arise, indicating a strong internal belief in the organization.
How we researched this report
This report was researched and written by the Best Practice Institute Editorial Staff. Our methodology includes sourcing information from primary sources such as company websites and official press releases, supplemented with data from reputable third-party sources like the US Bureau of Labor Statistics and trade publications. Learn more about our methodology.
Sources
- Vista Equity Partners Completes $4.6 Billion Acquisition of KnowBe4 — Vista Equity Partners
- KnowBe4 Careers Page — KnowBe4
- Occupational Outlook Handbook: Software Developers — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- KnowBe4 Benefits Page — KnowBe4
- KnowBe4 Diversity, Equity and Inclusion — KnowBe4
- KnowBe4 Interview Reviews on Glassdoor — Glassdoor
- Vista Equity Partners to acquire KnowBe4 for $4.6B — TechCrunch
- KnowBe4 Salaries — Glassdoor
- Occupational Outlook Handbook: Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Quick answers
Researched and edited by Best Practice Institute Editorial Staff. See our methodology.