Her Story
About Candice
Candice Gould serves as Senior Global Account Manager at Bitdefender, where she specializes in the cybersecurity channel and works with strategic partners across the managed service provider (MSP) ecosystem. In her role, she collaborates with distributors that resell cloud and SaaS solutions, helping MSPs expand their businesses while navigating the increasingly complex cybersecurity landscape. Rather than selling directly to enterprise clients, Bitdefender operates through channel partners, and Gould focuses on cultivating those relationships, supporting partner growth, and creating mutually beneficial opportunities. She brings more than six years of experience in the technology and cybersecurity sector and has built her career around strategic partnerships, account management, and relationship development.
Before entering the cybersecurity industry, Gould spent five and a half years as a sales representative for a liquor distributor, where she developed a strong foundation in sales and customer relationship management. Earlier in her career, she worked in marketing for a high-end eyewear company in Los Angeles before transitioning into sales through her experience as a bartender. She holds a degree in Marketing from PennWest California and has continued to expand her expertise through professional certifications and hands-on experience. Throughout her career, Gould has distinguished herself by taking initiative, going beyond the traditional scope of her responsibilities, supporting her colleagues, sharing valuable resources, remaining actively engaged in team communications, and mentoring new team members.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Gould is committed to making a positive impact in her community and supporting causes that matter to her. She is involved with anti-human trafficking organizations through event participation and monthly donations and actively engages in women-in-technology events. Gould attributes her success to her willingness to take initiative and support others, while the values of leading by example, accountability, integrity, and trustworthiness guide both her professional and personal life. She encourages young women entering the technology industry to speak up, share their perspectives, and confidently take up space, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the value they bring to traditionally male-dominated environments.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Candice
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to taking initiative, consistently going above and beyond, and being willing to step outside the traditional scope of my role when needed. I make it a priority to support my team, share knowledge and resources, and stay actively engaged in team communication. I also value mentorship and have had the opportunity to guide and support others throughout my career, which has strengthened my own leadership skills while helping others grow professionally.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from my professional mentor, Tracy Lacewell, who was a Vice President of Sales at Pax8. Her guidance taught me the importance of being intentional about my career, taking ownership of my professional growth, and continuing to challenge myself. I’ve carried that advice with me by staying open to opportunities, seeking ways to grow, and being proactive in building a career that aligns with my strengths and goals.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the technology industry is to never be afraid to speak up, share your perspective, and take up space in the room. There are still many men in the industry, but women bring unique experiences, insights, and perspectives that are incredibly valuable, particularly in the technology space. Be confident in your knowledge and abilities, contribute your ideas, and do not allow intimidation to keep you from having a voice.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is navigating a traditionally male-dominated industry, particularly when interacting with customers who may initially direct conversations toward my male counterparts rather than me. At the same time, I see a meaningful opportunity to challenge those expectations and demonstrate that women have an important and valuable place in technology and cybersecurity. I’m fortunate to work at Bitdefender, where there is strong representation of women, and my team is approximately 50% women, which creates a more inclusive environment and reinforces the importance of diverse perspectives in the industry.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are accountability, integrity, and leading by example. I believe that when you commit to doing something, you should follow through, and if circumstances prevent you from doing so, you should take responsibility and be accountable. I also place a strong emphasis on being trustworthy and conducting myself with integrity, especially in sales, where building genuine relationships and earning the confidence of clients and colleagues are essential to long-term success.
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