Michael L. Johnson

Pioneer
DISC Type : Dis

VP of Finance at Sanas

Campbell, California, United States

Overview

Michael is a senior finance executive at Sanas, focused on scaling SaaS and Cloud technology companies. He previously held VP roles at Couchbase and Zscaler and was CFO at Khan Academy. A Certified Public Accountant from Texas A&M University, he is described as a savvy and collaborative leader.

His career choices reflect a passion for technology that enhances global connection and education. He has supported Khan Academys mission for free worldwide education and now contributes to Sanass goal of breaking down communication barriers through innovative voice technology.

Michael is part of the team that launched real-time voice translation technology at Sanas, preserving a users unique voice across dozens of languages.

Personality Overview

Decisive But Friendly

Dynamic But Sincere

Driven But Considerate

They combine a unique set of diverse traits where they are fast and friendly but can slow down to be thorough when needed  They have the unique ability to win both love and respect from their team (or outsiders) If they are convinced, they can become very strong champions for your product

Topics They Care About

SaaS Financial Models
He has deep expertise in Cloud and SaaS financial models, having driven growth at tech companies like Sanas, Couchbase, and Zscaler.
Global Team Building
He focuses on building high-performing finance teams to support global sales. He is currently hiring for key finance and accounting roles at Sanas.
Transforming Communication
He is passionate about Sanas's mission to change how people connect by breaking down language barriers with real-time voice translation technology.

Media Appearances

Michael has no verified media appearances

Work History

2-2025
VP of Finance at Sanas
1-2023 - 9-2024
Vice President of Financial Planning Analysis at Couchbase
5-2021 - 1-2023
Vice President Finance at Zscaler
5-2018 - 5-2021
Chief Financial Officer at Khan Academy
4-2016 - 4-2018
Director of Finance, US and Global Sales & Marketing FP&A at Intuit

Education

1994 - 1998
Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) from Texas A&M University

More Information

Social Presence :

Prographics :

Exp : 27 Location : Campbell, California, United States Job Level : Senior Designation : VP of Finance at Sanas
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Insights For Selling To Michael L.

During A Call Or A Meeting

DO's

  • Build a trustworthy relationship while keeping the product center-stage
  • Use phrases like ‘your decision will’, ‘you will impact’ etc.
  • Keep your pitch focused on the impact but nurture the relationship too

DONT's

  • Don’t hesitate from asking questions or pushing them, but take a formal approach
  • Don’t be very informal during the early interactions even if they are being so themselves
  • Don't lean very heavily into providing too much information, sharing whitepapers etc.

When Cold Calling

When Writing An Email

While Negotiating & Closing

    The secret to closing fast with Michael L. is

  • Nothing less than a strong combination of proof of results, relationship and high levels of professionalism is effective with them.
  • Will you ever get a clear answer from Michael L.

  • They can say no while staying friendly, but can also be pursuaded to reconsider

Insights For Deal Planning

    How fast (or slow) will Michael L. move?

  • They are generally fast movers and can take quick decisions
  • Can Michael L. take some risk or not?

  • They have high risk-appetite but can get ahead of themselves once in a while. Observe carefully

You And Michael L.

Personality Compatibility


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