Michael Argast

Michael Argast has a diverse work experience spanning over two decades. Michael is the co-founder and CEO of Kobalt.io since November 2018, where they assess, develops, and runs cyber security programs for small and mid-sized organizations. Prior to this, Michael founded and served as the CEO of Sky Northern Inc, which eventually became part of Kobalt Security Inc. During their tenure from July 2016 to November 2019, they built an alliance of over 250 members across North America to address the security challenges faced by clients and security firms.

Before their entrepreneurial ventures, Michael held various roles at TELUS from May 2011 to March 2016. Michael started as the Director of TELUS Security Solutions - Western Canada, where they successfully grew the largest and most influential information security practice in Western Canada. Michael then progressed to the Director of Sales Engineering and Enablement, overseeing functions such as complex solutions, product management, marketing, and communications nationally. Michael also served as the Director of Business Strategy for TELUS Security, where they led a team responsible for developing product line, marketing, and complex deal solution strategies.

Prior to TELUS, Michael worked for Sophos from October 2004 to May 2011. Michael held the position of Global Head of Sales Engineering, leading a team of over 120 direct and indirect reports in 17 countries globally. During their tenure, they supported strategic account sales worldwide, facilitated acquisitions, and supported product evolution.

Earlier in their career, Michael worked at ActiveState as a Sales Engineer and later as a Manager of Sales Engineering. Michael supported the sale of ActiveState products and contributed to significant growth in sales figures.

Before that, Michael gained experience as a Sales Engineer at AT&T Canada, where they supported the sale of wholesale solutions in the BC market. Michael also worked as a Sales Engineer at Metronet, supporting the sale of Internet and network solutions to SMB and Enterprise accounts.

Michael started their career as a Sales Engineer at Sprint Canada, where they gained experience in the telecommunications industry.

Throughout their career, Michael Argast has demonstrated a strong entrepreneurial spirit, leadership skills, and expertise in the field of cyber security.

Michael Argast attended the University of Waterloo from 1991 to 1995, where they pursued a degree in Electrical Engineering. However, they did not complete the program. Michael'sstudies at the university mainly focused on engineering and diverse electives.